Western Wisconsin Family Law & Divorce Lawyers
Protecting Your Family, Finances, and Future
At Williamson & Siler, S.C., we understand that family law matters can be emotional and overwhelming. Whether you are facing a divorce, child custody dispute, paternity case, or financial concerns like child support or spousal maintenance, our experienced attorneys are here to help. We provide compassionate, strategic legal counsel to ensure that your rights are protected while seeking the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Our Family Law Services
We offer comprehensive legal support in a variety of family law matters, including:
- Divorce & Legal Separation – Guidance through every step of the divorce or separation process.
- Child Custody & Placement – Advocacy for parental rights and the best interests of children.
- Child Support – Establishing, modifying, and enforcing child support obligations.
- Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) – Representation for fair financial support arrangements.
- Asset Protection & Property Division – Ensuring equitable distribution of marital assets and debts.
- Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements – Helping couples protect their assets before or after marriage.
- Paternity Cases – Establishing legal parentage and securing parental rights.
- Step-Parent Adoption – Assisting with legal adoption procedures.
- Post-Divorce Issues – Modifying existing court orders to reflect changes in life circumstances.
- Domestic Restraining Orders – Legal protection for victims of domestic violence.
- Grandparent Rights – Helping grandparents seek visitation and custody when necessary.
- Mediation & Low-Conflict Divorce – Alternative dispute resolution methods to minimize stress and conflict.
Our goal is to resolve family law matters as efficiently and amicably as possible, but when needed, we are fully prepared to advocate aggressively for your rights in court.
Divorce in Wisconsin
Divorce can be one of the most challenging times in a person’s life. At Williamson & Siler, S.C., we provide clear guidance and experienced legal representation to help you navigate the process with confidence.
How to File for Divorce in Wisconsin
- Filing the Petition – One spouse must file a Summons and Petition with the Clerk of Courts.
- Serving the Other Spouse – The documents must be legally served to the other party.
- Waiting Period – Wisconsin requires a minimum 120-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.
- Negotiating a Settlement – If both parties agree on all issues, they can submit a Marital Settlement Agreement for court approval. If not, litigation may be necessary.
- Finalizing the Divorce – Once all issues are resolved, the court will issue a Judgment of Divorce, legally ending the marriage.
Key Issues Decided in a Divorce
- Child Custody & Placement – Determining parental decision-making rights and where children will live.
- Child Support – Calculating and enforcing fair child support payments.
- Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) – Establishing financial support when needed.
- Property & Debt Division – Dividing marital assets, debts, and retirement accounts fairly.
If you are considering a divorce, we can help you understand your rights, protect your interests, and guide you through the process with care and professionalism.
Child Custody & Placement in Wisconsin
Child custody is often the most emotionally charged issue in family law. At Williamson & Siler, S.C., we focus on protecting the best interests of the children while advocating for fair and workable custody arrangements for parents.
Legal Custody vs. Physical Placement
- Legal Custody – The right to make major decisions about a child’s education, healthcare, and upbringing. Wisconsin courts generally favor joint custody, allowing both parents to have a say.
- Physical Placement – Where the child will reside and how time is shared between parents. This can be primary (one parent has more time) or shared (equal time between both parents).
How Custody Is Determined
Wisconsin courts prioritize the child’s best interests when deciding custody and placement, considering factors such as:
✅ The wishes of the child (if age-appropriate).
✅ Each parent’s ability to provide care and stability.
✅ The child’s relationship with each parent.
✅ Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.
If parents cannot agree on custody, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem (GAL)—an attorney who represents the best interests of the child.
Mediation & Low-Conflict Divorce
Not all divorces have to be battles in court. Mediation and low-conflict divorce allow couples to reach fair agreements without unnecessary stress, legal fees, or lengthy litigation.
What Is Mediation?
Mediation is a neutral, structured negotiation process where both spouses work with a trained mediator to:
- Resolve disputes about child custody, property division, and support.
- Find creative solutions tailored to their family’s needs.
- Avoid expensive and adversarial courtroom battles.
Benefits of Mediation & Low-Conflict Divorce
⭐ Faster & Less Expensive – Reduces court costs and legal fees.
⭐ Greater Control – Allows both parties to shape the outcome rather than having a judge decide.
⭐ Less Stress for Children – Minimizes parental conflict, creating a healthier co-parenting environment.
⭐ More Privacy – Keeps personal and financial matters out of the courtroom.
If you and your spouse are willing to work together to reach fair agreements, mediation or a low-conflict divorce could be the best option for both of you.
Why Choose Williamson & Siler, S.C.?
- Experienced & Compassionate – We understand the emotional and financial challenges of family law cases.
- Results-Oriented – We work toward fair resolutions but are ready to fight for you in court if necessary.
- Tailored Legal Strategies – Every case is unique, and we develop customized strategies for your situation.
Whether you’re going through a divorce, fighting for custody, or seeking a peaceful resolution through mediation, our attorneys are here to protect your rights and help you move forward.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options.
How Much Does a Divorce Lawyer Cost?
One of the first questions many people have when considering divorce is: How much will it cost? The answer varies
When Should You Revisit Custody or Child Support?
Life circumstances change, and sometimes those changes require modifying a child custody or support order. If you or your ex-spouse
Conflict & Divorce
Divorce & Conflict: Why Cooperation Matters Divorce can be an emotional and stressful process, but the way you approach it
