Senate Bill 189 proposes a significant change to the process of obtaining a divorce or legal separation in Wisconsin by allowing for an optional final hearing by affidavit. This bill enables a court to grant a judgment of divorce or legal separation without requiring an in-person hearing, provided that both parties meet specific conditions. These conditions include being represented by legal counsel or having worked with a registered lawyer mediator, filing a court-approved stipulation, and submitting a signed affidavit that meets various requirements, such as affirming residency and disclosing any pending court cases related to domestic abuse.

The bill also includes several amendments to existing statutes. Notably, it renumbers current provisions and creates a new section that outlines the requirements for the affidavit process. Additionally, it amends existing laws to clarify that certain statements made under oath can be satisfied by the affidavit, and it updates the language regarding the waiting period for final hearings. The bill aims to streamline the divorce process while ensuring that necessary legal protections and disclosures are maintained.

Statutes affected:
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