Assembly 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 waiving the right to a hearing and affirming the necessary legal disclosures.

The bill also includes several amendments to existing statutes, such as renumbering and creating new sections related to the affidavit process. Notably, it amends sections regarding the filing of disclosure forms, the appearance of litigants, and the requirements for the court to find that a marriage is irretrievably broken. Additionally, it clarifies that the affidavit can satisfy certain requirements previously necessitating a court hearing. Overall, this legislation 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