Introduction
Navigating the divorce process can feel overwhelming, especially for military personnel stationed away from their home state. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with valuable information on how to obtain a divorce in Wisconsin when you are stationed outside of the state.
Filing for Divorce in Wisconsin
The initial and crucial step in obtaining a divorce while stationed outside of Wisconsin is filing for divorce. It’s important to note that you can file for divorce in the state where either you or your spouse reside. However, Wisconsin requires that at least one of you be a resident of the state for a minimum of six months before filing for divorce.
Serving the Divorce Papers to Your Spouse
Once you have filed the divorce papers, the next step is to ensure your spouse receives them. If your spouse is stationed alongside you, you can utilize the assistance of the base legal office to serve the papers. On the other hand, if your spouse is not stationed with you, you can hire a process server from their home state to carry out the task. Once your spouse has been served, they will have a specific timeframe within which to respond to the divorce papers.
Responding to the Divorce Papers
In the event that your spouse fails to respond to the divorce papers, you can proceed to file for a default judgment. Essentially, this means that the court will proceed with granting the divorce based on the information provided in the divorce papers. On the other hand, if your spouse does respond to the divorce papers, you will need to engage in cooperation and negotiation to reach an agreement on matters such as property division, child custody, and support.
Navigating the Divorce Proceedings
After reaching a mutually acceptable agreement, you will need to participate in a hearing to finalize the divorce. If you are stationed outside of Wisconsin, it is possible to request attendance at the hearing via telephone or video conference. In cases where remote participation is not feasible, you may need to request a postponement until you are able to attend the hearing in person.
Conclusion
Obtaining a divorce while stationed outside of Wisconsin can prove to be a complex process. Nevertheless, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with your available options and take the necessary steps to ensure a seamless and efficient divorce. By following the comprehensive steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the divorce process and successfully obtain a divorce while stationed outside of Wisconsin.