Divorce is a difficult process for everyone involved, especially when it comes to children. In high net worth divorces, where significant assets are at play, the stakes are even higher. The emotional and financial toll of divorce can take a toll on parents and children alike.

As a divorce attorney in Milwaukee, it is our responsibility to ensure that our clients understand the importance of creating a parenting plan that prioritizes the well-being and stability of their children. In this article, we will discuss the key factors to consider when creating a parenting plan in high net worth divorces that maintains family harmony for all involved.

Summary:

1. Putting Your Children First
2. Co-Parenting vs. Sole Custody
3. Child Support Considerations
4. Creating a Detailed Parenting Plan
5. Maintaining Open Communication
6. Seeking Professional Assistance

1. Putting Your Children First

The turbulence of a divorce can be incredibly unsettling for children, and it’s essential to first and foremost prioritize their emotional stability and well-being. High net worth divorces in particular can be complex because they often involve more involved asset division.

There may be substantial assets such as multiple homes, vacation properties, businesses, stocks, bonds, retirement accounts, and other investments to consider. This can complicate the divorce process as it may require valuation experts, forensic accountants, and other financial professionals to ensure an equitable division.

By putting your children first, despite all the divorce complexities, you ensure their lives remain as consistent as possible. And in high net worth divorces in particular, it’s crucial to consider how financial resources can best be utilized to support your children’s needs, such as education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities.

2. Co-Parenting vs. Sole Custody

The decision between co-parenting and sole child custody is a major decision in every divorce. Co-parenting allows both parents to play an active role in their children’s lives, ensuring that they benefit from the emotional, financial, and developmental support of both parents. This model promotes a balanced upbringing and has been shown to be beneficial for children’s psychological health. However, it requires cooperative and respectful communication between ex-spouses, which can be challenging in some circumstances.

On the other hand, sole custody means one parent takes on the primary responsibility for the children’s welfare. While this can offer stability if one parent is unable to participate fully, it may deprive children of the ongoing involvement of both parents.

In high net worth situations, the financial implications of each option also need careful consideration. The focus remains on the child’s best interests; however, the child’s accustomed standard of living, which may be higher due to the parents’ wealth, is also taken into account.

Regardless of the chosen path, the main objective of custody should be to ensure the stability and well-being of your children. An experienced divorce attorney will help protect the best interest of their client and the child. You can learn more in our previous post “How to Choose The Right Lawyer for Your Child Custody Case.”

3. Child Support Considerations

In high net worth divorces, child support calculations can be more complicated. The combined parental income often exceeds typical state guidelines, necessitating a different approach. Courts may consider factors beyond just income, such as the children’s accustomed lifestyle and specific needs.

Furthermore, high net worth divorces can involve intricate assets and revenue streams, which can complicate child support rulings. Therefore, when developing parenting plans in these situations, it’s crucial to consider these unique financial elements to ensure the child’s well-being and stability post-divorce.

4. Creating a Detailed Parenting Plan

A comprehensive parenting plan goes beyond determining custody; it outlines each parent’s responsibilities, including the residential schedule, decision-making protocols, and how to address communication and conflict. High net worth individuals often have demanding careers or social commitments which can impact the custody arrangement and parenting plan.

These parents may need to develop a flexible and detailed parenting plan that addresses their unique work schedules, career commitments, varying residences and more.

Here are the items included in more parenting plans:

• Custody and Visitation Schedule: This should include details about who the child will live with, when and how often the other parent will visit, and schedules for holidays, birthdays, and vacations.
• Decision-Making Responsibilities: The plan should specify who will make important decisions for the child such as those related to healthcare, education, and religious upbringing.
• Financial Responsibilities: This includes details about child support payments, healthcare expenses, education costs, and other financial responsibilities.
• Communication Guidelines: Rules and methods of communication between the parents should be included, as well as how information about the child will be shared.
• Dispute Resolution: The plan should include a process for resolving disputes about the parenting plan itself, this could involve mediation or going back to court.
• Plans for Future Changes: As the child grows older, their needs and circumstances will change. The plan should outline how these changes will be addressed.
• Transportation Arrangements: Details about who will drop off and pick up the child for visits, school, or activities.
• Other Specifics: Any other specifics that might be unique to the family’s situation, like how to handle introducing new romantic partners to the child, rules for social media use, etc.

5. Maintaining Open Communication

Open and effective communication can help to minimize conflict, support problem-solving, and enhance mutual understanding between co-parents. It facilitates effective scheduling and fosters a cooperative environment that prioritizes the child’s best interests. Even when unresolved issues or emotions exist, it’s crucial for parents to maintain respectful and honest dialogue for the benefit of their children.

This includes being flexible and willing to compromise where necessary. Remember, open communication is not just about talking, but also about active listening to understand the other parent’s perspective.

6. Seeking Professional Assistance

In high net worth divorces, it is crucial to seek professional assistance from a reputable divorce attorney who has experience in handling complex financial matters and child custody arrangements. A skilled lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities of a high net worth divorce and ensure that your children’s best interests are protected.

As a Milwaukee divorce attorney, Ohiku Law understands the challenges that high net worth divorces can bring, especially when children are involved. If you are going through a high net worth divorce, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ohiku Law for support and guidance. We are here to help you ensure stability for your children during this difficult time. Call us today.

By Attorney Odalo Ohiku, Owner of Ohiku Law Office

Attorney Odalo Ohiku is a dedicated and experienced lawyer who focuses on divorce law, family law, and custody and placement for high-net-worth individuals in the Greater Milwaukee area. A trained mediator and arbitrator, Attorney Ohiku has the skill set, experience, and perspective to help clients safeguard their interests while minimizing the stress, anxiety, and conflict that can come with divorce. Attorney Ohiku’s credentials are exemplary: he has been honored as a “Top 40 under 40” by both The American Society of Legal Advocates and The National Trial Lawyers, served as Chair of the Wisconsin State Bar Board of Governors, and earned the President Award from the Wisconsin State Bar. He is passionate about his work in safeguarding families, ensuring that they can maintain the lives they have worked hard to build.

In today’s digital age, where almost every aspect of our lives is intertwined with technology, cybersecurity and privacy have become crucial factors to consider during a divorce. The intersection of wealth, technology, and privacy has given rise to complex issues that demand careful attention.

This article explores the intricacies of handling divorce in the digital age. From managing online presence and securing personal information, we look at the strategies and pitfalls of technology facing high net worth couples during divorce.

Summary:

1. The Role of Technology
2. Protecting Your Digital Assets
3. Cybersecurity Threats
4. The Importance of Privacy
5. Strategies for Maintaining Privacy
6. Digital Evidence
7. The Importance of Working with a Specialized Divorce Attorney

The Role of Technology in High Net Worth Divorce

With the rise of digital assets like cryptocurrencies and the massive amounts of data now stored online, technology has become a central element in divorce. Digital assets and currencies introduce challenges for wealth management and estate planning, sometimes requiring the involvement of technology experts who can thoroughly investigate the data.

Additionally, with the transparency that today’s technology offers, it is becoming increasingly difficult for parties to hide assets or misrepresent their worth. This underscores the importance of transparency during high net worth divorce. However, the same transparency also raises concerns about privacy and cybersecurity, which must be carefully managed throughout the process.

Protecting Your Digital Assets During Divorce

Protecting your digital assets during a high net worth divorce process is an essential yet often overlooked aspect. These digital assets may range from cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin to digital photographs, social media accounts, and even digitally stored documents. It’s crucial to understand that just like physical assets, digital assets can be subject to scrutiny and division in a divorce proceeding.

You should consider changing passwords to sensitive accounts and implementing two-factor authentication. Additionally, it’s advisable to be conscious of privacy settings on social media platforms and to refrain from sharing details that could potentially be used against you in court.

Cybersecurity Threats in High Net Worth Divorce

As digital assets and online financial footprints become increasingly popular, there’s risk of privacy breaches, data theft, and cyber-attacks during divorce. It’s not uncommon for disgruntled spouses to resort to hacking or spying tactics to gain leverage in divorce proceedings. They may attempt to access private emails, financial accounts, or even cryptocurrency wallets without consent. This not only violates privacy rights but can also significantly impact the fair distribution of assets.

Furthermore, third-party platforms used for communication or document sharing throughout the divorce process could be susceptible to cyber threats. Therefore, it’s crucial for individuals navigating a high net worth divorce to prioritize cybersecurity measures. These might include using encrypted communication channels, securing digital assets, and working with attorneys specializing in high net worth divorce.

The Importance of Privacy in High Net Worth Divorce

Privacy is paramount in high net worth divorces. Wealthy individuals often have a public image to maintain, and the release of sensitive information during a divorce can lead to reputational damage and professional consequences. Additionally, the disclosure of detailed financial information could potentially expose them to security risks.

With the digital age making it easier for information to be shared and spread, it’s crucial to take steps to protect privacy during divorce. This might involve using secure platforms to communicate and exchange documents, or sealing court records where possible. Additionally, seeking the guidance of attorneys who specialize in high net worth divorces and are adept at handling such sensitive matters discreetly can be immensely beneficial.

Strategies for Maintaining Privacy During Divorce

Maintaining privacy during a divorce, particularly a high net worth one, requires a multi-faceted strategy. One of the most effective ways is to engage experienced divorce attorneys who are skilled in handling sensitive information and can guide the process discreetly. Divorce lawyers can also advise on the possibility of sealing court records to prevent public access.

It’s also important to utilize secure communication methods. This means using encrypted email services, secure document-sharing platforms, and avoiding discussing details of the case on social media or other public platforms.

Lastly, mediation or collaborative divorce strategies can help keep proceedings out of court, offering a more private environment to work through asset division and other contentious issues. By implementing these strategies, individuals can better protect their privacy during a divorce.

Digital Evidence in High Net Worth Divorce Cases

In high net worth divorce cases, digital evidence often plays a pivotal role. Financial transactions, communications, and asset management have largely moved online. This digital footprint can provide a wealth of information during a divorce case. Emails, text messages, social media posts, and even GPS data can reveal hidden assets, undisclosed income, or other behaviors pertinent to the divorce proceedings.

Additionally, digital currencies like Bitcoin have introduced new forms of wealth that can be difficult to trace without the proper expertise. However, it’s important to note that obtaining such evidence must be done legally and ethically to be admissible in court. Unauthorized access to a spouse’s private accounts or devices can lead to legal repercussions and damage the credibility of the evidence.

The Importance of Working with a Specialized Divorce Attorney

Divorces involving high net worth individuals require specialized legal expertise. It’s crucial to work with a divorce attorney who has experience handling complex financial matters and navigating the impact of technology on divorces.

At Ohiku Law, we have a dedicated team of attorneys who can provide you with the necessary guidance and support to navigate a high net worth divorce in the digital age. Reach out to one of our Milwaukee divorce attorneys to schedule your appointment today.

By Attorney Odalo Ohiku, Owner of Ohiku Law Office

Attorney Odalo Ohiku is a dedicated and experienced lawyer who focuses on divorce law, family law, and custody and placement for high-net-worth individuals in the Greater Milwaukee area. A trained mediator and arbitrator, Attorney Ohiku has the skill set, experience, and perspective to help clients safeguard their interests while minimizing the stress, anxiety, and conflict that can come with divorce. Attorney Ohiku’s credentials are exemplary: he has been honored as a “Top 40 under 40” by both The American Society of Legal Advocates and The National Trial Lawyers, served as Chair of the Wisconsin State Bar Board of Governors, and earned the President Award from the Wisconsin State Bar. He is passionate about his work in safeguarding families, ensuring that they can maintain the lives they have worked hard to build.

Determining child custody during a divorce is never easy, but it can be particularly challenging for high net worth parents. The court must consider traditional factors such as the physical and mental health, along with additional considerations such as financial resources and lifestyle.

This article explores strategies that high net worth parents should use to ensure the best interests of their children are met during a divorce. These tips, along with the help of a trusted divorce attorney, can help you better navigate your divorce while keeping the best interests of your children front and center.

Summary:

1. Divorce and Parenting Plans in Wisconsin
2. Factors that Determine Child Custody
3. Negotiating a Parenting Plan
4. More Considerations for High Net Worth Couples
5. Pros and Cons of Mediation for High Net Worth Divorcing Parents
6. Additional Resources

1. Divorce and Parenting Plans in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, divorce proceedings involving minor children require the creation of a parenting plan. This agreement is designed to address practical parenting issues and outlines the responsibilities of each parent in raising the child.

The law in Wisconsin generally presumes that parents have joint legal custody of the children. However, if parties fail to reach an agreement in mediation, they must file a proposed parenting plan within 60 days.

This becomes particularly important for high net worth parents, whose complex financial situations may further complicate matters. Hence, such parents should work together to prioritize the child’s best interests and ensure their needs are met.

2. Factors that Determine Child Custody

During a divorce, the most important thing couples must decide is how their children will be cared for. There are two different forms of child custody to be decided: legal custody and physical placement.

Legal custody includes the right to make decisions about the children’s upbringing including healthcare, education, religion, etc. Physical custody or physical placement refers to which parent the child will primarily live with.

In determining which parent should receive primary physical custody, attorneys consider a number of factors including:

• The relationship between each parent and the child
• The willingness of each parent to encourage a relationship between the child and the other parent
• The parents’ physical, mental, and emotional health
• The parents’ lifestyle (including use of drugs, alcohol, gambling or criminal activity)
• Each parent’s work schedule and ability to provide care for the child
• Any history of domestic violence by either parent

3. Negotiating a Parenting Plan

Negotiating a parenting plan for high net worth parents can be a complex process due to the unique circumstances that accompany a high-net-worth lifestyle. The key to successful negotiation lies in prioritizing the child’s best interests above all else.

A well-crafted parenting plan should detail custody arrangements, visitation schedules, and decision-making protocols. High net worth parents often have demanding schedules, so flexibility and clear communication are essential.

It’s also crucial to involve experienced professionals, such as divorce attorneys or mediators, who can provide advice on the best course of action.

4. More Considerations for High Net Worth Couples

High net worth individuals involved in a child custody battle have some additional considerations. In cases where one parent has access to more resources than the other, courts must ensure that the financial disparity does not give that parent an unfair advantage.

Another issue that frequently arises in high net worth divorces is asset division. Parents should consider creating a trust to protect their children’s assets from any potential conflict or disputes between the parents. This can be especially important in cases where one parent may have inherited money, owns property or has other complex financial arrangements. Prioritizing succession and generational wealth transition is an important topic in many of these cases.

Lastly, high net worth divorces often involve lifestyle changes, especially if the couple is accustomed to a luxurious lifestyle they can’t maintain post-divorce. Therefore, open communication about financial matters throughout the process is vital to minimize conflict.

To help protect parents with high net worth from potential conflicts of interest, courts often appoint independent advisors or consultants to assess the situation and develop child custody plans.

5. Pros and Cons of Mediation for High Net Worth Divorcing Parents

Divorce mediation can offer several advantages for high net worth parents undergoing a divorce. It fosters a more collaborative environment, emphasizing open communication. This approach can make it easier to co-parent after the divorce as they create a parenting plan tailored to their specific needs.

Additionally, mediation allows the parties to maintain control over the process and outcome of their divorce, which can be beneficial in complex financial situations.

However, there are also drawbacks to consider. If mediation fails, it could potentially become more expensive as parents would have to spend money on both the mediator and attorneys. Additionally, mediation may not be suitable for people uncomfortable with discussing and negotiating legal matters without an attorney’s guidance.

You can read more about the pros and cons of mediation in our article “Is Divorce Mediation Right For You?”

6. Additional Resources

By understanding these strategies and seeking legal guidance, high net worth couples can navigate their divorce and develop a child custody plan that serves their children’s best interests. While it may not always be an easy process, divorce can be led with the utmost care for your children and their needs.

For help navigating your high net worth divorce, contact Ohiku Law. At Ohiku Law, our experienced Milwaukee divorce attorneys will put you and your child’s needs at the forefront. Contact us today for a free 30-minute consultation.

By Attorney Odalo Ohiku, Owner of Ohiku Law Office

Attorney Odalo Ohiku is a dedicated and experienced lawyer who focuses on divorce law, family law, and custody and placement for high-net-worth individuals in the Greater Milwaukee area. A trained mediator and arbitrator, Attorney Ohiku has the skill set, experience, and perspective to help clients safeguard their interests while minimizing the stress, anxiety, and conflict that can come with divorce. Attorney Ohiku’s credentials are exemplary: he has been honored as a “Top 40 under 40” by both The American Society of Legal Advocates and The National Trial Lawyers, served as Chair of the Wisconsin State Bar Board of Governors, and earned the President Award from the Wisconsin State Bar. He is passionate about his work in safeguarding families, ensuring that they can maintain the lives they have worked hard to build.

Are you facing a high net worth divorce? This is one of the most complicated family law issues, as it involves dividing up assets in a way that is not only fair to both parties but also legally and financially sound. In order to properly navigate this complex situation, it’s important to enlist not only the help of a skilled divorce attorney but the help of a financial expert.

It’s not just about dividing assets; it’s about understanding the value of those assets, their potential for future growth, tax implications, and much more.

This article will delve into the role of financial professionals in high net worth divorces, highlighting how they can help protect your wealth and ensure a fair division of assets.

Why Have Financial Professionals When Going Through a High Net Worth Divorce?

When figuring out how to prepare for your high net worth divorce, there’s a lot to consider. Engaging financial professionals during a high net worth divorce is an important first step. These experts bring to the table crucial knowledge and understanding of complex financial matters that are often involved in such cases.

High net worth divorces often involve assets that are more complicated than cash, such as executive compensation plans, business interests, rare collections, and assets spread across multiple jurisdictions. This complexity can make asset division challenging, and without proper expertise, one might inadvertently overlook valuable assets or fail to understand the tax implications of the divorce.

Additionally, there’s a risk of hidden assets in high net worth divorces, which professionals can help uncover. This happens when one spouse conceals anything worth value like jewelry, investments or any other sources of income. Thus, having a financial professional on your side is vital to ensure a fair settlement and protect your wealth.

What Should I Look For in a Financial Expert?

When looking for a financial expert to assist you in your high-net-worth divorce, they should have extensive experience in handling complex financial matters related to divorce, such as dividing pensions, business valuations, and tax implications.

You should also look for a professional with strong communication skills, who can explain complex financial matters in simple terms. Their ability to clearly articulate these details will help you make informed decisions.

Lastly, the financial expert should have a thorough understanding of the laws and regulations governing divorce in your jurisdiction, as these can significantly impact the division of assets.

What to Expect from Working with a Financial Professional

When working with a financial professional during your high net worth divorce, you can expect a comprehensive review and analysis of your financial situation. They will examine all your assets, including real estate, retirement accounts, investments, business interests, and more.

Their goal is to establish an accurate picture of your financial standing and the value of these assets. They may also uncover hidden or overlooked assets, ensuring everything is on the table for division.

How Financial Professionals Help Draft a Divorce Settlement Agreement

Financial professionals play a crucial role in drafting a divorce settlement agreement in high-net-worth divorces. They start by conducting a comprehensive financial analysis to identify and value all marital assets as stated above. Once the assets are identified and valued, financial professionals can assist in forecasting the long-term financial implications of various settlement scenarios. This includes understanding tax consequences, future income, and potential changes to lifestyle.

By providing these insights, they help you and your divorce attorney negotiate a settlement that is financially fair and sustainable in the long term.

The Benefits of Working with a Financial Professional During Your High Net Worth Divorce

A key advantage of working with a financial professional during your divorce is their ability to accurately identify, value, and divide complex assets like real estate investments, business ownership interests, and retirement accounts. As mentioned, they can also uncover hidden or overlooked assets, ensuring a comprehensive division of wealth.

Financial professionals provide crucial insights into the long-term implications of various settlement options, including tax consequences and potential lifestyle changes. This helps you make informed decisions that protect your financial future.

Their expertise in financial matters can also reduce stress and confusion during a challenging time. Lastly, they can serve as a neutral third party, helping to facilitate productive discussions and negotiations, which can lead to a fairer, faster resolution.

What Should I Do if My Spouse Refuses to Hire a Financial Expert?

If your spouse refuses to hire a financial expert during your high net worth divorce, it’s crucial for you to take steps to protect your interests. Begin by consulting with your divorce lawyer. They can explain the benefits of having a financial expert involved and may be able to persuade your spouse or the court of its necessity.

If your spouse continues to resist, you may have the option to hire a financial expert on your own. This professional can provide you with the financial analysis and advice you need to negotiate a fair settlement. In some cases, the court may even order the involvement of a financial expert if it believes their input is necessary for the equitable division of assets.

In conclusion, engaging a financial professional during your high net worth divorce is a strategic move that can significantly impact the outcome of your settlement. They bring invaluable expertise in identifying and valuing complex assets, forecasting long-term financial implications, and ensuring a fair division of wealth.

While the divorce process can be challenging, working with experts during the process can help alleviate some of the stress. At Ohiku Law, we specialize in divorce law and helping our clients in Milwaukee, Brookfield and beyond get the best possible outcome.

Contact us today if you’re looking for a divorce attorney in Milwaukee. We are here to help.

By Attorney Odalo Ohiku, Owner of Ohiku Law Office

Attorney Odalo Ohiku is a dedicated and experienced lawyer who focuses on divorce law, family law, and custody and placement for high-net-worth individuals in the Greater Milwaukee area. A trained mediator and arbitrator, Attorney Ohiku has the skill set, experience, and perspective to help clients safeguard their interests while minimizing the stress, anxiety, and conflict that can come with divorce. Attorney Ohiku’s credentials are exemplary: he has been honored as a “Top 40 under 40” by both The American Society of Legal Advocates and The National Trial Lawyers, served as Chair of the Wisconsin State Bar Board of Governors, and earned the President Award from the Wisconsin State Bar. He is passionate about his work in safeguarding families, ensuring that they can maintain the lives they have worked hard to build.

Divorce is never an easy process, but a contested divorce can be particularly challenging. If you are considering filing for divorce in Wisconsin, it’s crucial to understand the legal process, your rights, and your responsibilities. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the complexities of a contested divorce in Wisconsin and provide insights and recommendations on how to achieve a favorable resolution. If you still have questions or are looking for expert legal advice as you face contested divorce, contact the Ohiku Law Office, expert divorce attornies in Milwaukee, today.

What is a Contested Divorce and When is it Necessary to Seek One?

A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on one or more issues, such as property division, child custody, child support, or spousal support. In these cases, the court must step in to make decisions on behalf of the couple. A contested divorce may be necessary when:

• Communication between spouses has broken down, making it impossible to reach agreements.
• There are significant disagreements regarding the division of assets, debts, or other financial matters.
• There are disputes over child custody, visitation, or support.

Initial Steps to Take When You Decide to File for a Contested Divorce in Wisconsin

Consult with an experienced family law attorney: Before taking any legal action, it’s essential to consult with an attorney who specializes in divorce and family law. They can help you understand your rights and responsibilities and guide you through the contested divorce process.

• Prepare and file the necessary paperwork: To initiate a contested divorce in Wisconsin, you’ll need to file a Summons and Petition for Divorce with the appropriate county court. Your attorney can help you complete and submit these documents.
• Serve your spouse with divorce papers: After filing, you must serve the divorce papers on your spouse, either personally or through a professional process server. Your spouse then has 20 days to file a response.
• Attend mandatory parenting classes (if applicable): If you have minor children, Wisconsin law requires both parents to attend a parenting class before the court will finalize the divorce.

How Wisconsin Laws Handle Property Division, Child Custody, Child Support, and Spousal Support in Contested Divorces

• Property division: Wisconsin is a community property state, meaning that marital assets and debts are generally divided equally between spouses. However, the court has the discretion to make adjustments based on factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s contributions to the marriage, and each spouse’s earning capacity.
• Child custody: The court will determine child custody based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as the child’s age, each parent’s ability to care for the child, and the child’s relationship with each parent.
• Child support: In Wisconsin, child support is calculated using a percentage of income standard, which considers the non-custodial parent’s income and the number of children they are supporting.
• Spousal support: The court may award spousal support (also known as alimony or maintenance) based on factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, and the needs of each party.

Differences and Similarities Between a Contested Divorce and an Uncontested Divorce

While both contested and uncontested divorces result in the dissolution of a marriage, there are key differences in how they are resolved:

• Agreement: In an uncontested divorce, the spouses agree on all issues, while in a contested divorce, disagreements must be resolved by the court.
• Cost: Contested divorces are typically more expensive than uncontested divorces due to increased legal fees and court costs.
• Time: Contested divorces often take longer to resolve, as they require court intervention to settle disputes.

However, both types of divorce require filing paperwork, serving the documents on the other spouse, and following Wisconsin’s divorce laws and procedures.

Legal Proceedings That Take Place During a Contested Divorce

• Discovery: This is the process of gathering information and evidence to support your case. Both parties may request documents, ask questions, or take depositions to build their arguments.
• Custody evaluations: If child custody is disputed, the court may order a custody evaluation to assess each parent’s ability to care for the child and recommend custody and visitation arrangements.
• Mediation: Before going to trial, the court may require the spouses to participate in mediation in an attempt to resolve their disagreements outside of court.
• Trial: If the parties cannot reach an agreement through mediation, the case proceeds to trial, where a judge will hear arguments and make decisions on the contested issues.

The Role of Attorneys, Judges, and Other Professionals in the Contested Divorce Process

• Attorneys: Family law attorneys play a crucial role in representing their client’s interests during a contested divorce. They provide legal advice, prepare and file necessary documents, and advocate for their clients in court.
• Judges: In a contested divorce, the judge makes decisions on property division, child custody, child support, and spousal support after hearing both parties arguments.
• Other professionals: Depending on the complexity of the case, other professionals such as financial experts, appraisers, and mental health professionals may be involved in the contested divorce process.

Navigating a contested divorce in Wisconsin can be challenging, but understanding the legal process and working with experienced professionals can help you achieve a favorable resolution. Consult with a knowledgeable family law attorney to ensure your rights and interests are protected throughout the divorce process. If you’re in the greater Milwaukee area and looking for legal help, click here to learn more about The Ohiku Law Office and how we can support you. 

By Attorney Odalo Ohiku, Owner of Ohiku Law Office

Attorney Odalo Ohiku is a dedicated and experienced lawyer who focuses on divorce law, family law, and custody and placement for high-net-worth individuals in the Greater Milwaukee area. A trained mediator and arbitrator, Attorney Ohiku has the skill set, experience, and perspective to help clients safeguard their interests while minimizing the stress, anxiety, and conflict that can come with divorce. Attorney Ohiku’s credentials are exemplary: he has been honored as a “Top 40 under 40” by both The American Society of Legal Advocates and The National Trial Lawyers, served as Chair of the Wisconsin State Bar Board of Governors, and earned the President Award from the Wisconsin State Bar. He is passionate about his work in safeguarding families, ensuring that they can maintain the lives they have worked hard to build.