Senate Bill 189 introduces a new process for the dissolution of marriage in Wisconsin, allowing courts to grant a judgment of divorce or legal separation based on an affidavit signed by both parties, rather than requiring an in-person hearing. This optional final hearing by affidavit is contingent upon several conditions: both parties must be represented by legal counsel or have worked with a registered lawyer mediator, they must file a court-approved stipulation, and submit a detailed affidavit that meets specific requirements, including waiving the right to a personal court hearing.

The bill also includes amendments to various sections of the statutes to accommodate this new process. For instance, it renumbers existing provisions and creates a new section outlining the conditions under which a judgment can be granted without a hearing. Additionally, it updates requirements for filing disclosure forms and clarifies that certain findings related to the irretrievable breakdown of marriage can also be satisfied through the affidavit process. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the divorce process while ensuring that necessary legal safeguards are maintained.

Statutes affected:
Text as Enrolled: 767.127(2), 767.127, 767.235(2), 767.235, 767.315(1)(a), 767.315, 767.315(2), 767.335(intro.), 767.335, 767.35(3), 767.35
Bill Text: 767.127(2), 767.127, 767.235(2), 767.235, 767.315(1)(a), 767.315, 767.315(2), 767.335(intro.), 767.335, 767.35(3), 767.35