Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB189

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/15/25
• Refer: 4/15/25
• Report Pass: 5/29/25
• Refer: 5/29/25

Caption

An optional final hearing by affidavit for the dissolution of a marriage.

Impact

The bill amends existing statutes regarding family law and court proceedings, particularly focusing on how divorce and legal separation cases can be resolved. By permitting judgments based solely on an affidavit, AB189 seeks to enhance efficiency in court processes for families looking to dissolve their marriage amicably. The implementation of this bill could reduce the burden on the court system, as many cases might not require a full court hearing if both parties are in agreement and meet the stipulated conditions.

Summary

Assembly Bill 189 introduces a new provision in Wisconsin law that allows for an optional final hearing in divorce or legal separation cases through an affidavit signed by both parties. This legislative change is significant because it streamlines the process of obtaining a divorce or legal separation by potentially reducing the need for an in-person court hearing, provided that certain conditions are met. Specifically, both parties must be represented by counsel or have worked with a trained mediator, and they must submit a signed affidavit meeting stringent requirements.

Contention

However, there are points of contention surrounding this bill, particularly related to the need for personal appearances in court. Critics may argue that allowing divorce judgments without an in-person hearing could lead to oversight of potential issues within the marriage, such as domestic abuse or unresolved disputes that might require judicial scrutiny. There is a concern that the simplified process might inadvertently favor one party over another, especially in cases where there is an imbalance of power between the spouses.