New Richmond, Wisconsin Child Custody Lawyers
Protecting Your Parental Rights and Your Child’s Best Interests
Child custody disputes are often the most emotional and difficult issues parents face during a divorce or separation. At Williamson & Siler, S.C., we help parents in Hudson, New Richmond, River Falls, Baldwin, Somerset, and throughout St. Croix County protect their parental rights while keeping the focus on what matters most—the well-being of their children.
Whether you are creating a parenting plan, involved in a contested custody case, seeking to modify an existing order, or dealing with a relocation issue, our family law attorneys provide clear guidance and strong advocacy at every stage.
Types of Child Custody in Wisconsin
Wisconsin law separates custody into two distinct concepts: legal custody and physical placement.
Legal Custody (Decision-Making Authority)
Legal custody refers to a parent’s authority to make major decisions about a child’s life, including:
- Education, including school choice and special services
- Medical care and health insurance decisions
- Religious upbringing
- Participation in extracurricular activities
Wisconsin courts generally favor joint legal custody, meaning both parents share decision-making authority. Sole legal custody may be ordered only when joint custody would not be in the child’s best interests, such as in cases involving domestic violence, substance abuse, or serious parental conflict.
Physical Placement (Where the Child Lives)
Physical placement determines where the child lives and how parenting time is divided. Placement arrangements may include:
Shared placement, where the child spends substantial time with both parents
Primary placement, where the child resides most of the time with one parent and the other parent has scheduled placement
Wisconsin courts do not presume equal placement. Instead, placement schedules are based on the child’s best interests and the practical realities of each family’s situation.
How Wisconsin Courts Decide Custody and Placement
When parents cannot reach an agreement, the court decides custody and placement based on the best interests of the child. Factors the court may consider include:
- Each parent’s relationship with the child
- The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
- The mental and physical health of the parents and the child
- Each parent’s ability to provide a stable and supportive environment
- Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse
- The child’s wishes, when appropriate based on age and maturity
In contested cases, the court may appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL)—an attorney who investigates the situation and makes recommendations to the judge regarding custody and placement.
Modifying Custody or Placement Orders
Custody and placement orders can be modified when circumstances change and the modification is in the child’s best interests. Common reasons for seeking a modification include:
- A parent relocating or planning to relocate
- Significant changes in the child’s needs
- One parent repeatedly failing to follow the placement order
- Concerns involving neglect, abuse, or unsafe living conditions
If you need to modify a custody or placement order in Hudson, New Richmond, or elsewhere in St. Croix County, we can help evaluate your options and pursue the appropriate legal steps.
Enforcing Custody and Placement Orders
When one parent does not follow a court-ordered custody or placement schedule, enforcement options may include:
- Filing a motion for contempt of court
- Requesting make-up placement time
- Seeking modification of custody or placement for repeated violations
If the other parent is withholding the child, denying placement, or ignoring court orders, legal action may be necessary to protect your rights.
Child Custody and Relocation in Wisconsin
Wisconsin law places strict requirements on parental relocation. If a parent intends to move 100 miles or more from the other parent, the law generally requires:
- Written notice provided at least 60 days in advance
- An opportunity for the other parent to object
- Court approval if the relocation is contested
Relocation cases can significantly affect custody and placement, making early legal guidance especially important.
How Williamson & Siler, S.C. Can Help
Our firm provides:
- Experience with St. Croix County family law courts and procedures
- Clear explanations of Wisconsin custody and placement laws
- Practical guidance focused on your child’s stability and best interests
- Strong representation in contested custody and placement disputes
- Assistance with mediation, negotiation, and court proceedings
If you are facing a custody dispute, enforcement issue, relocation concern, or modification request, we are here to help you protect your relationship with your child.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your child custody matter.
What is the difference between legal custody and physical placement in Wisconsin?
Legal custody refers to a parent’s authority to make major decisions about a child’s upbringing, such as education, medical care, and religious training. Physical placement refers to where the child lives and how parenting time is divided between parents.
Does Wisconsin automatically award joint custody?
Wisconsin courts generally favor joint legal custody, but it is not automatic. The court will order joint custody only if it is in the child’s best interests. Sole legal custody may be ordered in cases involving domestic violence, substance abuse, or an inability to cooperate.
Is 50/50 placement presumed in Wisconsin?
No. Wisconsin law does not presume equal physical placement. Placement schedules are based on the child’s best interests and practical factors such as parental availability, distance between homes, and the child’s routine.
Can a custody or placement order be changed later?
Yes. Custody and placement orders may be modified if there has been a substantial change in circumstances and the modification is in the child’s best interests. Common reasons include relocation, changes in the child’s needs, or repeated violations of the existing order.
What happens if the other parent refuses to follow the placement schedule?
If a parent violates a court-ordered placement schedule, the court may enforce the order through contempt proceedings, award make-up placement time, or modify custody or placement in serious or repeated cases.
Can my child choose which parent to live with?
A child’s preference may be considered by the court depending on the child’s age and maturity, but the child does not get to decide custody or placement. The final decision is always based on the child’s best interests.
Do I need a lawyer for a custody case if we mostly agree?
Even when parents agree on most issues, having legal guidance can help ensure the custody and placement terms are clear, enforceable, and structured to avoid future disputes.
