When a parent in Wisconsin harms their child or fails to protect them, the consequences — legal, familial, and personal — can be severe. It’s important for everyone to understand what actions qualify as child abuse under state law and the possible outcomes a parent might face if accused or found responsible.

Learn when grandparents can seek visitation rights in Wisconsin divorce cases. Expert guidance from Kaminski & Pozorski family law attorneys in Manitowoc.

If you’re going through a divorce in Wisconsin, you may be wondering: Can my spouse (or I) get more than half of our assets? The answer is yes — depending on the circumstances. Wisconsin is a marital property state , which means courts start with a 50/50 split. But that’s only a presumption , not a guarantee. Here’s when a spouse can get more than 50% in a Wisconsin divorce. When Courts Award More Than 50% of Assets Wisconsin judges can divide property unequally if an equal split would be unfair. Common reasons include: 1. Major Premarital Assets If one spouse entered the marriage with significantly more property, a court may award them a larger share. 2. Short Marriage Short-term marriages often result in uneven division, especially when one spouse contributed more financially. 3. Large Difference in Earning Capacity If one spouse earns far more or has greater future earning potential, the other may receive more than half. 4. Age or Health Issues A spouse facing disability, illness, or limited future income may receive a greater portion of assets. 5. Wasting or Hiding Assets If a spouse gambled, hid, or improperly spent marital funds, the other may be compensated with a bigger share. 6. Contributions to Career or Household Spouses who supported the other’s education, career, or stayed home with children may be awarded a larger portion. What About Inheritances or Gifts? Individual inheritances, gifts, and certain personal injury awards are normally excluded — unless they were mixed with marital funds, in which case they may be divided. Bottom Line A 50/50 division is the starting point, but Wisconsin courts can — and often do — adjust property division for fairness. Yes, a spouse can absolutely receive more than 50% of the assets. Contact Us If you’re in Manitowoc, Green Bay, Appleton, Sheboygan, Kewaunee, or the surrounding area and need assistance with holiday visitation, parenting plans, or family law matters, please contact Kaminski & Pozorski at (920) 684-6694 for a free consultation.

Navigating the Crossroads: Key Decisions When Considering Divorce in Wisconsin Deciding to end a marriage is one of the most significant and emotionally challenging choices a person can make. It involves careful consideration of personal, emotional, and legal factors. If you are in northeastern Wisconsin and contemplating divorce, understanding the legal landscape and your options is crucial for protecting your interests and your future. Kaminski & Pozorski , a local firm in Manitowoc with over 40 years of experience, specializes in guiding clients through these difficult times with both expert legal counsel and compassionate support. Critical Questions to Ask Yourself Before moving forward, take time for self-reflection and consider these essential questions: Have communication and trust broken down completely? While some issues can be resolved with counseling, a persistent lack of trust or an inability to communicate effectively can be strong indicators that the marital bond has irrevocably weakened. Are your fundamental values and future goals misaligned? People evolve, and sometimes spouses grow in different directions. If your core values or vision for the future are no longer compatible, divorce may be the most authentic path forward. How will this impact my well-being and my children? You must balance your own needs with the impact on others. Consider how the current marital stress affects your children and whether a different family dynamic, post-divorce, might be healthier for all involved. Have you exhausted all other options? For some, marriage counseling or a trial separation can provide the clarity needed to make a final decision. Am I prepared for the financial realities? Divorce can lead to a change in the standard of living or financial independence. Gathering information about your financial situation is a critical preparatory step. Legal Considerations in Wisconsin Wisconsin is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that the court does not consider marital misconduct (like affairs) when granting a divorce; the only requirement is that the marriage is irretrievably broken. However, significant legal issues remain to be addressed, including: Property Division: Wisconsin is a community property state, meaning assets acquired during the marriage are generally divided equally. Child Custody and Placement: The court's primary concern is always the best interests of the child when determining legal custody and physical placement schedules. Spousal Support (Alimony) and Child Support: These decisions are based on specific guidelines and individual circumstances. The Importance of Legal Guidance Deciding whether to divorce is a personal journey, but the process of a divorce requires experienced legal guidance. An attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate complex legal procedures, and advocate for your best interests. Kaminski & Pozorski often encourages clients to consult with them six to eight weeks before filing for divorce to help identify key issues early in the process. If you are in Manitowoc, Green Bay, Sheboygan, or the surrounding area and need assistance with family law matters, the team at Kaminski & Pozorski is ready to guide you through every step of the process. Contact their law firm today for a free consultation at (920) 684-6694 to confidentially discuss your options and determine the best path forward for you and your family.

At Kaminski & Pozorski in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, our family-law team has decades of experience guiding parents through the complex terrain of holiday visitation, custody agreements, and the unique challenges that arise during the end-of-year season.

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At a minimum, there is a mandatory 120-day waiting period between filing for divorce and the earliest possible finalization. However, unless you and your spouse have already reached a full agreement on all major issues, most divorces take significantly longer. There is much to work through from the initial filing to the final divorce decree.