How long does it take to get divorced in Monroe County, Wisconsin?

Uncontested divorces in Monroe County typically take 2-4 months from filing to final decree. Wisconsin requires 120 days waiting period after filing. Contested cases take 8-18 months or longer depending on complexity and court availability.

How is property divided in Monroe County divorces?

Wisconsin follows community property rules. Marital property is divided equally between spouses. Monroe County Circuit Court applies Wisconsin law to property division.

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Monroe County Divorce Guide: Filing in Sparta, Wisconsin

Q: How much does divorce cost in Monroe County?

Filing fees in Wisconsin vary by county. Uncontested divorces using online services cost $500-$2,000 plus filing fees. Attorney-handled divorces range from $2,000-$6,000 for uncontested cases to $10,000-$50,000+ for contested cases in Monroe County.

Q: Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Monroe County?

No, Wisconsin allows self-representation in divorce cases. However, attorney representation is recommended for contested custody, significant assets, or business ownership. Simple uncontested divorces in Monroe County often work well with online service assistance.

Q: Can I file for divorce in Monroe County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet Wisconsin's residency requirement of 6 months, you can file for divorce in Monroe County even if your spouse lives in another county or out of state.

Monroe County handles divorce cases through the Circuit Court. Whether you live in Sparta or another Monroe County community, this guide provides everything you need to know about filing for divorce in Monroe County.

Monroe County Divorce at a Glance

County: Monroe County
Primary City: Sparta, Wisconsin
Court Type: Circuit Court
Residency Requirement: 6 months
Waiting Period: 120 days

What Makes Monroe County Unique

Every county in Wisconsin follows the same state divorce laws, but Monroe County has specific local procedures, filing requirements, and resources that affect your divorce process.

Local Court Procedures

Monroe County's Circuit Court has established local rules that govern how divorces proceed. These include specific document formatting requirements, filing deadlines, and hearing schedules that differ from other Wisconsin countys.

Filing Requirements

The Clerk of Courts in Monroe County has specific requirements for document submission, fee payments, and case processing. Understanding these requirements before filing prevents delays and rejected paperwork.

Community Resources

Monroe County offers various divorce-related resources including mediation services, self-help centers, and legal aid programs. Availability and eligibility vary by county.

Monroe County Court Filing Fees

Divorce Petition: Filing fees in Wisconsin vary by county. Contact the Monroe County Clerk of Courts for current exact fees.

Typical Wisconsin Filing Fees: $75-$450 depending on county

Additional Costs:

Service of process: $40-$150
Certified copies: $1-$5 per page
Motion filing fees: $25-$100 each

Payment Methods:
Most Wisconsin courts accept cash, check, money order, and credit/debit cards. Some countys charge a processing fee for card payments.

Attorney Costs in Monroe County

Attorney fees in Monroe County vary based on experience, case complexity, and whether your divorce is contested.

Hourly Rates:

Entry-level attorneys: $150-$275/hour
Experienced attorneys: $275-$400/hour
Senior attorneys: $400-$500/hour

Average Total Costs:

Simple uncontested: $1,500-$4,000
Contested divorce: $8,000-$30,000+
High-conflict cases: $30,000-$60,000+

Retainer Requirements:

Uncontested: $1,500-$3,000
Contested: $5,000-$15,000+

These are typical ranges for Wisconsin attorneys. Actual costs in Monroe County depend on your specific situation.

How to File for Divorce in Monroe County

Step 1: Verify Residency

You or your spouse must meet Wisconsin's residency requirement: 6 months

Step 2: Gather Documents

Marriage certificate (certified copy)
Financial records (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)
Property records
Debt information
Children's information (if applicable)

Step 3: Complete Divorce Forms

Wisconsin requires specific forms for divorce petitions. Monroe County may have additional local forms.

Required documents typically include:

Petition/Complaint for Divorce
Financial affidavits
Child custody forms (if applicable)
Settlement agreement (if uncontested)

Step 4: File with the Court

Submit your completed forms to the Monroe County Clerk of Courts along with the filing fee. Many Wisconsin countys now offer electronic filing options.

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

After filing, your spouse must be served with divorce papers according to Wisconsin law. Service options include:

Sheriff's department
Private process server
Certified mail (if spouse agrees)

Step 6: Complete Mandatory Requirements

Wisconsin may require:

Parenting classes (if children involved)
Financial disclosures
Mediation attempts
Waiting period: 120 days

Step 7: Finalize Your Divorce

For uncontested cases, a brief hearing may be required. Contested cases involve negotiations, possible trial, and final judgment.

Monroe County Divorce Timeline

Uncontested Divorce (Both Agree):

Minimum: 120 days (state-mandated waiting period)
Typical: 2-4 months from filing to final decree
Best case: 6-10 weeks with all paperwork perfect

Contested Divorce (Disputes to Resolve):

Minor disagreements: 4-8 months
Significant disputes: 8-14 months
Trial required: 12-24 months

Timelines depend on court calendar availability in Monroe County, case complexity, and how quickly both parties respond to requests.

Monroe County Circuit Court

Monroe County's divorce cases are handled by the Circuit Court. The court manages all aspects of family law including divorce, custody, support, and property division.

Court Functions:

Process divorce petitions
Conduct hearings and trials
Issue temporary orders
Approve settlement agreements
Enter final divorce decrees

Court Staff:
The Clerk of Courts office handles all filing, fee collection, and record keeping for Monroe County divorce cases.

Wisconsin Divorce Court Locator

Monroe County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Monroe County Court of Common Pleas

Court Address:

610 Monroe

Stroudsburg,

18360

Phone:

717-248-8146

Fax:

717-248-5275

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.monroecountypa.gov/Pages/Home.aspx

Clerks:

Tammy Stuck

Court Name:

10th Judicial Circuit Court

Court Address:

300 N Main

Paris,

65275

Phone:

660-327-5204

Fax:

660-327-5781

Website:

http://www.monroecountymo.org/

Clerks:

Heather Wheeler

Court Name:

20th Judicial Circuit Court

Court Address:

100 S Main

Waterloo,

62298

Phone:

618-939-8681

Fax:

618-939-1929

Website:

http://monroecountyil.gov/

Clerks:

Sandra Sauget

Court Name:

1st Judicial Circuit

Court Address:

123 Madison

Clarendon,

72029

Phone:

870-747-3615

Fax:

870-747-3710

Clerk Hours:

8am-4:30pm

Website:

http://monroecounty.arkansas.gov/

Clerks:

Alice F. Smith

Court Name:

Monroe County Trial Court

Court Address:

301 N College Ave

Bloomington,

47404

Phone:

(812) 349-2600

Fax:

(812) 349-2610

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Clerks:

Linda Robbins

Court Name:

Monroe County Supreme Court

Court Address:

99 Exchange Blvd.

Rochester,

14614

Phone:

585 753-1600

Fax:

585 753-1624

Clerk Hours:

9am-5pm

Website:

https://www.monroecounty.gov/

Clerks:

Cheryl Dinolfo

Court Name:

Monroe County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Div.

Court Address:

101 N. Main St. Room 33

Woodsfield,

43793

Phone:

(740) 472-0761

Fax:

(740) 472-2549

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Website:

https://www.monroecountyohio.net/

Clerks:

Beth Ann Rose

Court Name:

38th Circuit Court, Monroe County

Court Address:

106 E. First St.

Monroe,

48161

Phone:

734-240-7020

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

https://www.co.monroe.mi.us/

Clerks:

Brian Burchette

Court Name:

Monroe County Superior Court

Court Address:

8 West Johnston St.

Forsyth,

31029

Phone:

(478) 994 7022

Fax:

(478) 994 7053

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

http://www.monroecoga.org/

Judges:

Thomas H. Wilson William A. Fears

Clerks:

Lynn W. Ham

Court Name:

Monroe County Circuit Court

Court Address:

105 College Street, Suite 103

Madisonville,

37354

Phone:

423-442-2396

Fax:

423 442-2644

Clerk Hours:

8:30am -4:30pm

Website:

http://www.monroegovernment.org

Judges:

Andrew Mark Freiberg, Larry H. Puckett, J. Michael Sharp, Sandra N.C. Donaghy, Dwaine "Benjy" Thomas, Alfred McClendon, Thomas B. Moser, Peter Alliman

Clerks:

Martha Cook

Court Name:

Monroe County Circuit Court

Court Address:

65 North Alabama Avenue

Monroeville,

36460

Phone:

251-743-2283

Website:

https://www.monroecountyal.com/

Clerks:

William R McMillan

Court Name:

Monroe County District Court

Court Address:

10 Benton Avenue East

Albia,

52531

Phone:

(641) 932 5212

Fax:

(641) 932 3245

Clerk Hours:

8am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.monroecoia.us/

Judges:

Mary Ann Brown, Randy DeGeest, Lucy J. Gamon, Myron Gookin, Annette J. Scieszinski, Daniel P. Wilson, Joel D. Yates, Crystal Cronk, Kirk A. Daily, Rose Anne Mefford, William S. Owens,

Clerks:

Ann Taylor

Court Name:

Monroe County Circuit Court

Court Address:

112 South Court Street

Sparta,

54656

Phone:

608-269-8745

Fax:

608-269-8781

Clerk Hours:

8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Website:

http://www.co.monroe.wi.us/

Judges:

Mark L. Goodman

Clerks:

Shirley K. Chapiewsky

Court Name:

Monroe County Chancery Court

Court Address:

301 South Chestnut Street

Aberdeen,

39730

Phone:

662-369-8143

Fax:

662-369-7928

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

http://www.monroems.com/

Judges:

Jacqueline Mask, Michael Malski, Talmadge Littlejohn, John A. Hatcher

Clerks:

Ronnie Boozer

Court Name:

Monroe County, Family Law Division

Court Address:

302 Fleming St.

Key West,

33040

Phone:

305-292-3423

Website:

https://www.monroecounty-fl.gov/

Court Name:

Monroe County Circuit Court

Court Address:

300 N. Main Street

Tompkinsville,

42167

Phone:

270-487-5480

Fax:

270-487-0068

Clerk Hours:

8:00 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Website:

https://monroecounty.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx

Judges:

David L. Williams

Clerks:

Joyce Emberton

Parking:

There is a public parking garage available with access from Second Street. Two-hour parking is available.

Court Name:

Family Court

Court Address:

106 South Court Street

Lewisburg,

24901

Phone:

(304) 772-3096

Website:

http://www.monroecountywv.net/

Judges:

David M. Sanders

Clerks:

Donald Evans

Wisconsin Divorce Court Locator

Monroe County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Monroe County Court of Common Pleas

Court Address:

610 Monroe

Stroudsburg,

18360

Phone:

717-248-8146

Fax:

717-248-5275

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.monroecountypa.gov/Pages/Home.aspx

Clerks:

Tammy Stuck

Court Name:

10th Judicial Circuit Court

Court Address:

300 N Main

Paris,

65275

Phone:

660-327-5204

Fax:

660-327-5781

Website:

http://www.monroecountymo.org/

Clerks:

Heather Wheeler

Court Name:

20th Judicial Circuit Court

Court Address:

100 S Main

Waterloo,

62298

Phone:

618-939-8681

Fax:

618-939-1929

Website:

http://monroecountyil.gov/

Clerks:

Sandra Sauget

Court Name:

1st Judicial Circuit

Court Address:

123 Madison

Clarendon,

72029

Phone:

870-747-3615

Fax:

870-747-3710

Clerk Hours:

8am-4:30pm

Website:

http://monroecounty.arkansas.gov/

Clerks:

Alice F. Smith

Court Name:

Monroe County Trial Court

Court Address:

301 N College Ave

Bloomington,

47404

Phone:

(812) 349-2600

Fax:

(812) 349-2610

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Clerks:

Linda Robbins

Court Name:

Monroe County Supreme Court

Court Address:

99 Exchange Blvd.

Rochester,

14614

Phone:

585 753-1600

Fax:

585 753-1624

Clerk Hours:

9am-5pm

Website:

https://www.monroecounty.gov/

Clerks:

Cheryl Dinolfo

Court Name:

Monroe County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Div.

Court Address:

101 N. Main St. Room 33

Woodsfield,

43793

Phone:

(740) 472-0761

Fax:

(740) 472-2549

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Website:

https://www.monroecountyohio.net/

Clerks:

Beth Ann Rose

Court Name:

38th Circuit Court, Monroe County

Court Address:

106 E. First St.

Monroe,

48161

Phone:

734-240-7020

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

https://www.co.monroe.mi.us/

Clerks:

Brian Burchette

Court Name:

Monroe County Superior Court

Court Address:

8 West Johnston St.

Forsyth,

31029

Phone:

(478) 994 7022

Fax:

(478) 994 7053

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

http://www.monroecoga.org/

Judges:

Thomas H. Wilson William A. Fears

Clerks:

Lynn W. Ham

Court Name:

Monroe County Circuit Court

Court Address:

105 College Street, Suite 103

Madisonville,

37354

Phone:

423-442-2396

Fax:

423 442-2644

Clerk Hours:

8:30am -4:30pm

Website:

http://www.monroegovernment.org

Judges:

Andrew Mark Freiberg, Larry H. Puckett, J. Michael Sharp, Sandra N.C. Donaghy, Dwaine "Benjy" Thomas, Alfred McClendon, Thomas B. Moser, Peter Alliman

Clerks:

Martha Cook

Court Name:

Monroe County Circuit Court

Court Address:

65 North Alabama Avenue

Monroeville,

36460

Phone:

251-743-2283

Website:

https://www.monroecountyal.com/

Clerks:

William R McMillan

Court Name:

Monroe County District Court

Court Address:

10 Benton Avenue East

Albia,

52531

Phone:

(641) 932 5212

Fax:

(641) 932 3245

Clerk Hours:

8am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.monroecoia.us/

Judges:

Mary Ann Brown, Randy DeGeest, Lucy J. Gamon, Myron Gookin, Annette J. Scieszinski, Daniel P. Wilson, Joel D. Yates, Crystal Cronk, Kirk A. Daily, Rose Anne Mefford, William S. Owens,

Clerks:

Ann Taylor

Court Name:

Monroe County Circuit Court

Court Address:

112 South Court Street

Sparta,

54656

Phone:

608-269-8745

Fax:

608-269-8781

Clerk Hours:

8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Website:

http://www.co.monroe.wi.us/

Judges:

Mark L. Goodman

Clerks:

Shirley K. Chapiewsky

Court Name:

Monroe County Chancery Court

Court Address:

301 South Chestnut Street

Aberdeen,

39730

Phone:

662-369-8143

Fax:

662-369-7928

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

http://www.monroems.com/

Judges:

Jacqueline Mask, Michael Malski, Talmadge Littlejohn, John A. Hatcher

Clerks:

Ronnie Boozer

Court Name:

Monroe County, Family Law Division

Court Address:

302 Fleming St.

Key West,

33040

Phone:

305-292-3423

Website:

https://www.monroecounty-fl.gov/

Court Name:

Monroe County Circuit Court

Court Address:

300 N. Main Street

Tompkinsville,

42167

Phone:

270-487-5480

Fax:

270-487-0068

Clerk Hours:

8:00 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Website:

https://monroecounty.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx

Judges:

David L. Williams

Clerks:

Joyce Emberton

Parking:

There is a public parking garage available with access from Second Street. Two-hour parking is available.

Court Name:

Family Court

Court Address:

106 South Court Street

Lewisburg,

24901

Phone:

(304) 772-3096

Website:

http://www.monroecountywv.net/

Judges:

David M. Sanders

Clerks:

Donald Evans

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Monroe County

Legal Aid Services

Wisconsin has legal aid organizations that provide free legal help to low-income residents. Contact your local legal aid office to check eligibility for services in Monroe County.

Typical Eligibility: Income at or below 125-200% of federal poverty guidelines

Court Self-Help Resources

Many Wisconsin courts offer self-help centers with:

Divorce form packets
Filing instructions
Procedural information
Referrals to resources

Contact the Monroe County Circuit Court to ask about available self-help services.

Pro Bono Legal Services

Local bar associations in Wisconsin may offer:

Free legal consultations
Reduced-fee attorney referrals
Pro bono representation for qualified cases

Mediation Services

Monroe County may offer court-connected mediation at reduced rates, typically much less expensive than private mediation.

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Monroe County

Online divorce services provide an affordable alternative to hiring an attorney for uncontested cases in Monroe County.

Benefits of Online Services:

Monroe County-specific forms and filing instructions
Professional document preparation
Significant cost savings vs. attorney fees
Convenient online process
Support throughout your case

Best For:

Uncontested divorces where both spouses agree
Cases without complex assets or custody disputes
Couples able to cooperate on terms
People seeking affordable professional help

Typical Cost Range: $500-$2,000 plus court filing fees

Online services work well in Monroe County for straightforward cases while providing guidance and form preparation assistance.

Divorce with Children in Monroe County

Monroe County courts prioritize children's best interests in custody and support decisions.

Child Custody in Wisconsin

Wisconsin courts consider multiple factors when determining custody:

Each parent's ability to care for children
Children's relationship with each parent
Stability of proposed living arrangements
Children's adjustment to home, school, community
Parents' willingness to cooperate
Any history of abuse or neglect

Parenting Time

Monroe County courts encourage meaningful relationships with both parents unless safety concerns exist. Parenting time schedules are customized to each family's situation.

Child Support

Wisconsin uses guidelines based on:

Both parents' incomes
Number of children
Parenting time allocation
Healthcare and childcare costs

Mandatory Requirements

Wisconsin may require parents in Monroe County to:

Complete parenting education classes
Attend mediation for custody disputes
Submit detailed parenting plans
Provide financial disclosure

Common Mistakes in Monroe County Divorces

1. Incomplete Financial Disclosure

Wisconsin requires full financial disclosure in divorce cases. Incomplete or inaccurate information causes delays and can result in court sanctions.

2. Missing Deadlines

Monroe County Circuit Court imposes deadlines for responses, discovery, and other filings. Missing deadlines can result in default judgments or case dismissal.

3. Incorrect Forms or Formatting

Each Wisconsin county has specific form requirements. Using outdated forms or incorrect formats results in rejected filings.

4. Poor Service of Process

Improperly serving your spouse invalidates the entire case. Follow Wisconsin's service requirements exactly.

5. Not Following Court Orders

Violating temporary orders issued by Monroe County court can result in contempt charges and negatively impact your case.

6. Failing to Update Information

Changes in income, residence, or circumstances must be reported to Monroe County court promptly.

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

While self-representation is allowed in Monroe County, complex cases involving businesses, substantial assets, or high-conflict custody benefit from attorney representation.

Monroe County Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get divorced in Monroe County?

Uncontested divorces in Monroe County typically take 2-4 months from filing to final decree. Wisconsin requires 120 days waiting period. Contested cases take 8-18 months or longer depending on complexity.

How much does divorce cost in Monroe County?

Filing fees vary by Wisconsin county. Uncontested divorces using online services cost $500-$2,000 plus filing fees. Attorney-handled divorces range from $2,000-$6,000 for uncontested cases to $10,000-$50,000+ for contested cases.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Monroe County?

No, but whether you should hire one depends on your situation. Attorney representation is recommended for cases involving significant assets, business ownership, contested custody, or domestic violence. Simple uncontested divorces often work well with online service assistance.

Can I file for divorce in Monroe County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet Wisconsin's residency requirement (6 months), you can file in Monroe County even if your spouse lives in another county or state.

What if my spouse doesn't respond to divorce papers?

If your spouse doesn't respond within the required timeframe in Wisconsin, you can request a default judgment from Monroe County court.

How is property divided in Monroe County?

Wisconsin follows community property rules. Marital property is divided equally between spouses.

Does Monroe County require separation before divorce?

Wisconsin's laws determine separation requirements. 120 days waiting period applies after filing. Formal separation is not required before filing.

Can I change my name back in my divorce?

Yes, you can request to resume your maiden name or previous name as part of your Monroe County divorce decree.

What if I can't afford the filing fee?

Monroe County court may waive filing fees if you qualify based on low income or receipt of public assistance. File a fee waiver application with your petition.

Are divorce records public in Monroe County?

Yes, divorce records filed with Monroe County Circuit Court are generally public records, though you can request certain sensitive information be sealed.

Next Steps: Start Your Monroe County Divorce

Step 1: Verify you meet Wisconsin's residency requirement (6 months)
Step 2: Gather all required financial and personal documents
Step 3: Decide between self-filing, online service, or attorney
Step 4: Complete Monroe County-specific divorce forms
Step 5: File petition with Monroe County Clerk of Courts
Step 6: Serve your spouse with divorce papers
Step 7: Complete any mandatory requirements
Step 8: Finalize your divorce through settlement or hearing

About This Monroe County Divorce Guide

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about filing for divorce in Monroe County, Wisconsin. Information covers local procedures, filing requirements, costs, and resources specific to Monroe County's Circuit Court.

Last Updated: February 2026

Note: Laws and procedures change. Always verify current requirements with Monroe County Clerk of Courts or consult with a qualified Wisconsin family law attorney.

RETAINER FEE  
PETITION    

COURT FILING FEE  SUMMONS  
AFFIDAVIT
  MOTIONS  
ARGUMENTS  
TEMPORARY ORDERS  HEARINGS  
SUBPOENAS
  DEPOSITIONS
  SETTLEMENT  CONFERENCES  JUDGEMENT

    TRIAL  
APPEALS

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Monroe County Divorce Guide: Filing in Sparta, Wisconsin

Monroe County Divorce at a Glance

County: Monroe County
Primary City: Sparta, Wisconsin
Court Type: Circuit Court
Residency Requirement: 6 months
Waiting Period: 120 days

What Makes Monroe County Unique

Every county in Wisconsin follows the same state divorce laws, but Monroe County has specific local procedures, filing requirements, and resources that affect your divorce process.

Local Court Procedures

Filing Requirements

Community Resources

Monroe County offers various divorce-related resources including mediation services, self-help centers, and legal aid programs. Availability and eligibility vary by county.

Monroe County Court Filing Fees

Divorce Petition: Filing fees in Wisconsin vary by county. Contact the Monroe County Clerk of Courts for current exact fees.

Typical Wisconsin Filing Fees: $75-$450 depending on county

Additional Costs:

Service of process: $40-$150
Certified copies: $1-$5 per page
Motion filing fees: $25-$100 each

Payment Methods:
Most Wisconsin courts accept cash, check, money order, and credit/debit cards. Some countys charge a processing fee for card payments.

Attorney Costs in Monroe County

Attorney fees in Monroe County vary based on experience, case complexity, and whether your divorce is contested.

Hourly Rates:

Entry-level attorneys: $150-$275/hour
Experienced attorneys: $275-$400/hour
Senior attorneys: $400-$500/hour

Average Total Costs:

Simple uncontested: $1,500-$4,000
Contested divorce: $8,000-$30,000+
High-conflict cases: $30,000-$60,000+

Retainer Requirements:

Uncontested: $1,500-$3,000
Contested: $5,000-$15,000+

These are typical ranges for Wisconsin attorneys. Actual costs in Monroe County depend on your specific situation.

How to File for Divorce in Monroe County

Step 1: Verify Residency

You or your spouse must meet Wisconsin's residency requirement: 6 months

Step 2: Gather Documents

Marriage certificate (certified copy)
Financial records (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)
Property records
Debt information
Children's information (if applicable)

Step 3: Complete Divorce Forms

Wisconsin requires specific forms for divorce petitions. Monroe County may have additional local forms.

Required documents typically include:

Petition/Complaint for Divorce
Financial affidavits
Child custody forms (if applicable)
Settlement agreement (if uncontested)

Step 4: File with the Court

Submit your completed forms to the Monroe County Clerk of Courts along with the filing fee. Many Wisconsin countys now offer electronic filing options.

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

After filing, your spouse must be served with divorce papers according to Wisconsin law. Service options include:

Sheriff's department
Private process server
Certified mail (if spouse agrees)

Step 6: Complete Mandatory Requirements

Wisconsin may require:

Parenting classes (if children involved)
Financial disclosures
Mediation attempts
Waiting period: 120 days

Step 7: Finalize Your Divorce

For uncontested cases, a brief hearing may be required. Contested cases involve negotiations, possible trial, and final judgment.

Monroe County Divorce Timeline

Uncontested Divorce (Both Agree):

Minimum: 120 days (state-mandated waiting period)
Typical: 2-4 months from filing to final decree
Best case: 6-10 weeks with all paperwork perfect

Contested Divorce (Disputes to Resolve):

Minor disagreements: 4-8 months
Significant disputes: 8-14 months
Trial required: 12-24 months

Timelines depend on court calendar availability in Monroe County, case complexity, and how quickly both parties respond to requests.

Monroe County Circuit Court

Monroe County's divorce cases are handled by the Circuit Court. The court manages all aspects of family law including divorce, custody, support, and property division.

Court Functions:

Process divorce petitions
Conduct hearings and trials
Issue temporary orders
Approve settlement agreements
Enter final divorce decrees

Court Staff:
The Clerk of Courts office handles all filing, fee collection, and record keeping for Monroe County divorce cases.

Wisconsin Divorce Court Locator

Monroe County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Monroe County Court of Common Pleas

Court Address:

610 Monroe

Stroudsburg,

18360

Phone:

717-248-8146

Fax:

717-248-5275

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.monroecountypa.gov/Pages/Home.aspx

Clerks:

Tammy Stuck

Court Name:

10th Judicial Circuit Court

Court Address:

300 N Main

Paris,

65275

Phone:

660-327-5204

Fax:

660-327-5781

Website:

http://www.monroecountymo.org/

Clerks:

Heather Wheeler

Court Name:

20th Judicial Circuit Court

Court Address:

100 S Main

Waterloo,

62298

Phone:

618-939-8681

Fax:

618-939-1929

Website:

http://monroecountyil.gov/

Clerks:

Sandra Sauget

Court Name:

1st Judicial Circuit

Court Address:

123 Madison

Clarendon,

72029

Phone:

870-747-3615

Fax:

870-747-3710

Clerk Hours:

8am-4:30pm

Website:

http://monroecounty.arkansas.gov/

Clerks:

Alice F. Smith

Court Name:

Monroe County Trial Court

Court Address:

301 N College Ave

Bloomington,

47404

Phone:

(812) 349-2600

Fax:

(812) 349-2610

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Clerks:

Linda Robbins

Court Name:

Monroe County Supreme Court

Court Address:

99 Exchange Blvd.

Rochester,

14614

Phone:

585 753-1600

Fax:

585 753-1624

Clerk Hours:

9am-5pm

Website:

https://www.monroecounty.gov/

Clerks:

Cheryl Dinolfo

Court Name:

Monroe County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Div.

Court Address:

101 N. Main St. Room 33

Woodsfield,

43793

Phone:

(740) 472-0761

Fax:

(740) 472-2549

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Website:

https://www.monroecountyohio.net/

Clerks:

Beth Ann Rose

Court Name:

38th Circuit Court, Monroe County

Court Address:

106 E. First St.

Monroe,

48161

Phone:

734-240-7020

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

https://www.co.monroe.mi.us/

Clerks:

Brian Burchette

Court Name:

Monroe County Superior Court

Court Address:

8 West Johnston St.

Forsyth,

31029

Phone:

(478) 994 7022

Fax:

(478) 994 7053

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

http://www.monroecoga.org/

Judges:

Thomas H. Wilson William A. Fears

Clerks:

Lynn W. Ham

Court Name:

Monroe County Circuit Court

Court Address:

105 College Street, Suite 103

Madisonville,

37354

Phone:

423-442-2396

Fax:

423 442-2644

Clerk Hours:

8:30am -4:30pm

Website:

http://www.monroegovernment.org

Judges:

Andrew Mark Freiberg, Larry H. Puckett, J. Michael Sharp, Sandra N.C. Donaghy, Dwaine "Benjy" Thomas, Alfred McClendon, Thomas B. Moser, Peter Alliman

Clerks:

Martha Cook

Court Name:

Monroe County Circuit Court

Court Address:

65 North Alabama Avenue

Monroeville,

36460

Phone:

251-743-2283

Website:

https://www.monroecountyal.com/

Clerks:

William R McMillan

Court Name:

Monroe County District Court

Court Address:

10 Benton Avenue East

Albia,

52531

Phone:

(641) 932 5212

Fax:

(641) 932 3245

Clerk Hours:

8am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.monroecoia.us/

Judges:

Mary Ann Brown, Randy DeGeest, Lucy J. Gamon, Myron Gookin, Annette J. Scieszinski, Daniel P. Wilson, Joel D. Yates, Crystal Cronk, Kirk A. Daily, Rose Anne Mefford, William S. Owens,

Clerks:

Ann Taylor

Court Name:

Monroe County Circuit Court

Court Address:

112 South Court Street

Sparta,

54656

Phone:

608-269-8745

Fax:

608-269-8781

Clerk Hours:

8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Website:

http://www.co.monroe.wi.us/

Judges:

Mark L. Goodman

Clerks:

Shirley K. Chapiewsky

Court Name:

Monroe County Chancery Court

Court Address:

301 South Chestnut Street

Aberdeen,

39730

Phone:

662-369-8143

Fax:

662-369-7928

Clerk Hours:

8am-5pm

Website:

http://www.monroems.com/

Judges:

Jacqueline Mask, Michael Malski, Talmadge Littlejohn, John A. Hatcher

Clerks:

Ronnie Boozer

Court Name:

Monroe County, Family Law Division

Court Address:

302 Fleming St.

Key West,

33040

Phone:

305-292-3423

Website:

https://www.monroecounty-fl.gov/

Court Name:

Monroe County Circuit Court

Court Address:

300 N. Main Street

Tompkinsville,

42167

Phone:

270-487-5480

Fax:

270-487-0068

Clerk Hours:

8:00 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Website:

https://monroecounty.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx

Judges:

David L. Williams

Clerks:

Joyce Emberton

Parking:

There is a public parking garage available with access from Second Street. Two-hour parking is available.

Court Name:

Family Court

Court Address:

106 South Court Street

Lewisburg,

24901

Phone:

(304) 772-3096

Website:

http://www.monroecountywv.net/

Judges:

David M. Sanders

Clerks:

Donald Evans

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Monroe County

Legal Aid Services

Wisconsin has legal aid organizations that provide free legal help to low-income residents. Contact your local legal aid office to check eligibility for services in Monroe County.

Typical Eligibility: Income at or below 125-200% of federal poverty guidelines

Court Self-Help Resources

Many Wisconsin courts offer self-help centers with:

Divorce form packets
Filing instructions
Procedural information
Referrals to resources

Contact the Monroe County Circuit Court to ask about available self-help services.

Pro Bono Legal Services

Local bar associations in Wisconsin may offer:

Free legal consultations
Reduced-fee attorney referrals
Pro bono representation for qualified cases

Mediation Services

Monroe County may offer court-connected mediation at reduced rates, typically much less expensive than private mediation.

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Monroe County

Online divorce services provide an affordable alternative to hiring an attorney for uncontested cases in Monroe County.

Benefits of Online Services:

Monroe County-specific forms and filing instructions
Professional document preparation
Significant cost savings vs. attorney fees
Convenient online process
Support throughout your case

Best For:

Uncontested divorces where both spouses agree
Cases without complex assets or custody disputes
Couples able to cooperate on terms
People seeking affordable professional help

Typical Cost Range: $500-$2,000 plus court filing fees

Online services work well in Monroe County for straightforward cases while providing guidance and form preparation assistance.

Divorce with Children in Monroe County

Monroe County courts prioritize children's best interests in custody and support decisions.

Child Custody in Wisconsin

Wisconsin courts consider multiple factors when determining custody:

Each parent's ability to care for children
Children's relationship with each parent
Stability of proposed living arrangements
Children's adjustment to home, school, community
Parents' willingness to cooperate
Any history of abuse or neglect

Parenting Time

Monroe County courts encourage meaningful relationships with both parents unless safety concerns exist. Parenting time schedules are customized to each family's situation.

Child Support

Wisconsin uses guidelines based on:

Both parents' incomes
Number of children
Parenting time allocation
Healthcare and childcare costs

Mandatory Requirements

Wisconsin may require parents in Monroe County to:

Complete parenting education classes
Attend mediation for custody disputes
Submit detailed parenting plans
Provide financial disclosure

Common Mistakes in Monroe County Divorces

1. Incomplete Financial Disclosure

Wisconsin requires full financial disclosure in divorce cases. Incomplete or inaccurate information causes delays and can result in court sanctions.

2. Missing Deadlines

Monroe County Circuit Court imposes deadlines for responses, discovery, and other filings. Missing deadlines can result in default judgments or case dismissal.

3. Incorrect Forms or Formatting

Each Wisconsin county has specific form requirements. Using outdated forms or incorrect formats results in rejected filings.

4. Poor Service of Process

Improperly serving your spouse invalidates the entire case. Follow Wisconsin's service requirements exactly.

5. Not Following Court Orders

Violating temporary orders issued by Monroe County court can result in contempt charges and negatively impact your case.

6. Failing to Update Information

Changes in income, residence, or circumstances must be reported to Monroe County court promptly.

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

While self-representation is allowed in Monroe County, complex cases involving businesses, substantial assets, or high-conflict custody benefit from attorney representation.

Monroe County Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get divorced in Monroe County?

How much does divorce cost in Monroe County?

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Monroe County?

Can I file for divorce in Monroe County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet Wisconsin's residency requirement (6 months), you can file in Monroe County even if your spouse lives in another county or state.

What if my spouse doesn't respond to divorce papers?

If your spouse doesn't respond within the required timeframe in Wisconsin, you can request a default judgment from Monroe County court.

How is property divided in Monroe County?

Wisconsin follows community property rules. Marital property is divided equally between spouses.

Does Monroe County require separation before divorce?

Wisconsin's laws determine separation requirements. 120 days waiting period applies after filing. Formal separation is not required before filing.

Can I change my name back in my divorce?

Yes, you can request to resume your maiden name or previous name as part of your Monroe County divorce decree.

What if I can't afford the filing fee?

Monroe County court may waive filing fees if you qualify based on low income or receipt of public assistance. File a fee waiver application with your petition.

Are divorce records public in Monroe County?

Yes, divorce records filed with Monroe County Circuit Court are generally public records, though you can request certain sensitive information be sealed.

Next Steps: Start Your Monroe County Divorce

About This Monroe County Divorce Guide

Last Updated: February 2026

Note: Laws and procedures change. Always verify current requirements with Monroe County Clerk of Courts or consult with a qualified Wisconsin family law attorney.

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Monroe County Divorce Guide: Filing in Sparta, Wisconsin

Monroe County Divorce at a Glance

What Makes Monroe County Unique

Local Court Procedures

Filing Requirements

Community Resources

Monroe County Court Filing Fees

Attorney Costs in Monroe County

How to File for Divorce in Monroe County

Step 1: Verify Residency

Step 2: Gather Documents

Step 3: Complete Divorce Forms

Step 4: File with the Court

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

Step 6: Complete Mandatory Requirements

Step 7: Finalize Your Divorce

Monroe County Divorce Timeline

Monroe County Circuit Court

Wisconsin Divorce Court Locator

Monroe County Family and Divorce Courts

Wisconsin Divorce Court Locator

Monroe County Family and Divorce Courts

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Monroe County

Legal Aid Services

Court Self-Help Resources

Pro Bono Legal Services

Mediation Services

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Monroe County

Divorce with Children in Monroe County

Child Custody in Wisconsin

Parenting Time

Child Support

Mandatory Requirements

Common Mistakes in Monroe County Divorces

1. Incomplete Financial Disclosure

2. Missing Deadlines

3. Incorrect Forms or Formatting

4. Poor Service of Process

5. Not Following Court Orders

6. Failing to Update Information

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

Monroe County Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get divorced in Monroe County?

How much does divorce cost in Monroe County?

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Monroe County?

Can I file for divorce in Monroe County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

What if my spouse doesn't respond to divorce papers?

How is property divided in Monroe County?

Does Monroe County require separation before divorce?

Can I change my name back in my divorce?

What if I can't afford the filing fee?

Are divorce records public in Monroe County?

Next Steps: Start Your Monroe County Divorce

About This Monroe County Divorce Guide

Monroe County Divorce Guide: Filing in Sparta, Wisconsin

Monroe County Divorce at a Glance

What Makes Monroe County Unique

Local Court Procedures

Filing Requirements

Community Resources

Monroe County Court Filing Fees

Attorney Costs in Monroe County

The Ultimate Guide
to Getting Started in Your Divorce