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

Uncontested divorces in Racine 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 Racine County divorces?

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

"The Most Trusted

Name in Online Divorce"

Exclusive

Online Divorce Partner

Best

Online Divorce Service

ADVISOR

We offer an online guided path through divorce that helps couples avoid unnecessary conflict and costs.

Start your divorce

See if this is right for me

Written By:

Divorce.com Staff

Wisconsin Online Divorce

Wisconsin Divorce Guide 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Process Online Divorce

Wisconsin Divorce Cost 2026: Complete Price Breakdown

Wisconsin Spousal Maintenance Calculator | Support Estimates

Wisconsin Child Support Calculator | Percentage 17-34% Model

Wisconsin Property Division | Community Property Calculator

How Much Does Divorce Cost in Madison, WI? Real Prices & Breakdown (2026)

Divorce Cost in Milwaukee, WI (2026 Guide)

Divorce Lawyer in Wisconsin | Divorce.com

Divorce Lawyer Madison, WI: Cost, How to Choose & Attorney Directory (2026)

Divorce Lawyers in Milwaukee, WI | Compare Attorneys

File for Divorce in Wisconsin Without a Lawyer (2026)

How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Madison, WI

How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Milwaukee | Step-by-Step 2025 Guide

Wisconsin Child Custody Laws 2026: Complete Legal Guide

Wisconsin Parenting Plan Template & Requirements (2026)

Wisconsin Divorce FAQ: 50 Questions Answered

Wisconsin Divorce by County: All 72 Counties

Adams County Divorce Guide: Friendship, Wisconsin Filing

Ashland County Divorce Guide: Ashland, Wisconsin Filing

Florence County Divorce Guide: Florence, Wisconsin Filing

Fond du Lac County Divorce Guide: Fond du Lac, Wisconsin Filing

Forest County Divorce Guide: Crandon, Wisconsin Filing

Douglas County Divorce Guide: Superior, Wisconsin Filing

Dunn County Divorce Guide: Menomonie, Wisconsin Filing

Eau Claire County Divorce Guide: au Claire, Wisconsin Filing

Dane County Divorce Guide: Madison, Wisconsin Filing

Dodge County Divorce Guide: Juneau, Wisconsin Filing

Door County Divorce Guide: Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin Filing

Clark County Divorce Guide: Neillsville, Wisconsin Filing

Columbia County Divorce Guide: Portage, Wisconsin Filing

Crawford County Divorce Guide: Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin Filing

Buffalo County Divorce Guide: Alma, Wisconsin Filing

Burnett County Divorce Guide: Siren, Wisconsin Filing

Calumet County Divorce Guide: Chilton, Wisconsin Filing

Chippewa County Divorce Guide: Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin Filing

Bayfield County Divorce Guide: Washburn, Wisconsin Filing

Brown County Divorce Guide: Green Bay, Wisconsin Filing

Barron County Divorce Guide: Barron, Wisconsin Filing

Marquette County Divorce Guide: Montello, Wisconsin Filing

Menominee County Divorce Guide: Shawano, Wisconsin Filing

Manitowoc County Divorce Guide: Manitowoc, Wisconsin Filing

Marathon County Divorce Guide: Wausau, Wisconsin Filing

Marinette County Divorce Guide: Marinette, Wisconsin Filing

Lafayette County Divorce Guide: Darlington, Wisconsin Filing

Langlade County Divorce Guide: Antigo, Wisconsin Filing

Lincoln County Divorce Guide: Merrill, Wisconsin Filing

Kenosha County Divorce Guide: Kenosha, Wisconsin Filing

Kewaunee County Divorce Guide: Kewaunee, Wisconsin Filing

La Crosse County Divorce Guide: La Crosse, Wisconsin Filing

Jackson County Divorce Guide: Black River Falls, Wisconsin Filing

Jefferson County Divorce Guide: Jefferson, Wisconsin Filing

Juneau County Divorce Guide: Mauston, Wisconsin Filing

Green Lake County Divorce Guide: Green Lake, Wisconsin Filing

Iowa County Divorce Guide: Dodgeville, Wisconsin Filing

Iron County Divorce Guide: Hurley, Wisconsin Filing

Grant County Divorce Guide: Lancaster, Wisconsin Filing

Green County Divorce Guide: Monroe, Wisconsin Filing

Sawyer County Divorce Guide: Hayward, Wisconsin Filing

Shawano County Divorce Guide: Shawano, Wisconsin Filing

Sheboygan County Divorce Guide: Sheboygan, Wisconsin Filing

Rusk County Divorce Guide: Ladysmith, Wisconsin Filing

Sauk County Divorce Guide: Baraboo, Wisconsin Filing

Racine County Divorce Guide: Racine, Wisconsin Filing

Richland County Divorce Guide: Richland Center, Wisconsin Filing

Rock County Divorce Guide: Janesville, Wisconsin Filing

Polk County Divorce Guide: Balsam Lake, Wisconsin Filing

Portage County Divorce Guide: Stevens Point, Wisconsin Filing

Price County Divorce Guide: Phillips, Wisconsin Filing

Pepin County Divorce Guide: Durand, Wisconsin Filing

Pierce County Divorce Guide: Ellsworth, Wisconsin Filing

Oneida County Divorce Guide: Rhinelander, Wisconsin Filing

Outagamie County Divorce Guide: Appleton, Wisconsin Filing

Ozaukee County Divorce Guide: Port Washington, Wisconsin Filing

Monroe County Divorce Guide: Sparta, Wisconsin Filing

Oconto County Divorce Guide: Oconto, Wisconsin Filing

Milwaukee County Divorce Guide: Milwaukee, Wisconsin Filing

Wood County Divorce Guide: Rapids, Wisconsin Filing

Waushara County Divorce Guide: Wautoma, Wisconsin Filing

Winnebago County Divorce Guide: Oshkosh, Wisconsin Filing

Washington County Divorce Guide: West Bend, Wisconsin Filing

Waukesha County Divorce Guide: Waukesha, Wisconsin Filing

Waupaca County Divorce Guide: Waupaca, Wisconsin Filing

Walworth County Divorce Guide: Elkhorn, Wisconsin Filing

Washburn County Divorce Guide: Shell Lake, Wisconsin Filing

Vernon County Divorce Guide: Viroqua, Wisconsin Filing

Vilas County Divorce Guide: Eagle River, Wisconsin Filing

Taylor County Divorce Guide: Medford, Wisconsin Filing

Trempealeau County Divorce Guide: Whitehall, Wisconsin Filing

St Croix County Divorce Guide: Hudson, Wisconsin Filing

Real Answers. Real Support.

We're here to guide you through every step of divorce — whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step. Our blog offers expert insights, practical tips, and real-life stories to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Read the blog

Featured Article
The Ultimate Guide to Getting Started in Your Divorce
Read more
Featured Article
10 Things to Know Before Starting Your Divorce
Read more
Featured Article
Divorce Process with Divorce.com
Read more

Upfront pricing at a fraction of the cost of traditional divorce

Divorce doesn’t have to cost as much as a car.

Traditional Divorce

$25-$30k

Divorce.com

$499

$1,999

Get started

Our Services

Paperwork Only
Basic access to divorce paperwork where you handle the rigorous filing process with the court.
Get started
POPULAR
We File For You
Our most popular package includes a dedicated case manager, automated court filing, spouse signature collection, and personalized documentation.
Get started
Fully Guided
Complete divorce support including mediation sessions, dedicated case management, court filing, and personalized documentation.
Get started

We've helped with

over 1 million divorces

We provide everything you need to get divorced — from conflict resolution to filing support and access to divorce experts — in one comprehensive, convenient online platform.

Get started

The team at divorce.com was responsive and helpful during a difficult process. I would highly recommend the site for uncomplicated, amicable divorces!!
Jen B.
I came across this online. So I checked on it. It was easy and affordable. I wish I would have found this years ago.
Brandy D.
I was able to read it easily. Thanks God for this service. I will recommend it to anyone who asks this is a very easy step to do. I love it please try it you won't be disappointed
Dianna R.
Great customer service. Questions were easy to answer and had descriptions to understand the questions.
Andelain R.

Proudly featured in these publications

Racine County Divorce Guide: Filing in Racine, Wisconsin

Q: How much does divorce cost in Racine 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 Racine County.

Q: Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Racine 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 Racine County often work well with online service assistance.

Q: Can I file for divorce in Racine 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 Racine County even if your spouse lives in another county or out of state.

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

Racine County Divorce at a Glance

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

What Makes Racine County Unique

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

Local Court Procedures

Racine 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 Racine County has specific requirements for document submission, fee payments, and case processing. Understanding these requirements before filing prevents delays and rejected paperwork.

Community Resources

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

Racine County Court Filing Fees

Divorce Petition: Filing fees in Wisconsin vary by county. Contact the Racine 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 Racine County

Attorney fees in Racine 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 Racine County depend on your specific situation.

How to File for Divorce in Racine 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. Racine 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 Racine 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.

Racine 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 Racine County, case complexity, and how quickly both parties respond to requests.

Racine County Circuit Court

Racine 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 Racine County divorce cases.

Wisconsin Divorce Court Locator

Racine County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Racine County Circuit Court

Court Address:

730 Wisconsin Ave

Racine,

53403

Phone:

262-636-3112

Clerk Hours:

Monday 8:00 am – 5:00 pmTuesday 8:00 am – 5:00 pmWednesday 8:00 am – 5:00 pmThursday 8:00 am – 5:00 pmFriday 8:00 am – 5:00 pmSaturday ClosedSunday Closed

Website:

https://racinecounty.com/

Judges:

Timothy D. Boyle

Clerks:

Roseanne Lee

Wisconsin Divorce Court Locator

Racine County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Racine County Circuit Court

Court Address:

730 Wisconsin Ave

Racine,

53403

Phone:

262-636-3112

Clerk Hours:

Monday 8:00 am – 5:00 pmTuesday 8:00 am – 5:00 pmWednesday 8:00 am – 5:00 pmThursday 8:00 am – 5:00 pmFriday 8:00 am – 5:00 pmSaturday ClosedSunday Closed

Website:

https://racinecounty.com/

Judges:

Timothy D. Boyle

Clerks:

Roseanne Lee

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Racine 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 Racine 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 Racine 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

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

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Racine County

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

Benefits of Online Services:

Racine 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 Racine County for straightforward cases while providing guidance and form preparation assistance.

Divorce with Children in Racine County

Racine 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

Racine 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 Racine County to:

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

Common Mistakes in Racine 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

Racine 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 Racine 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 Racine County court promptly.

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

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

Racine County Divorce FAQs

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

Uncontested divorces in Racine 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 Racine 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 Racine 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 Racine County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet Wisconsin's residency requirement (6 months), you can file in Racine 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 Racine County court.

How is property divided in Racine County?

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

Does Racine 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 Racine County divorce decree.

What if I can't afford the filing fee?

Racine 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 Racine County?

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

Next Steps: Start Your Racine 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 Racine County-specific divorce forms
Step 5: File petition with Racine 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 Racine County Divorce Guide

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

Last Updated: February 2026

Note: Laws and procedures change. Always verify current requirements with Racine 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

Why Divorce.com

Mission

Services

Resources

Online Divorce

Divorce Guides

States

Get Started

We offer a simple divorce online for uncontested or lightly contested divorces.

"The Most Trusted

Name in Online Divorce"

Exclusive

Online Divorce Partner

Best

Online Divorce Service

ADVISOR

We offer a guided path through divorce that helps avoid unnecessary conflict and costs.

Start your divorce

See if this is right for me

Written By:

Divorce.com Staff

Racine County Divorce Guide: Filing in Racine, Wisconsin

Racine County Divorce at a Glance

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

What Makes Racine County Unique

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