More Family Law news More news in Wisconsin Find Family Law lawyers in Wisconsin
In a landmark decision, Wisconsin Governor Tom Johnson signed a series of family law reforms into law on August 6, 2025, aimed at streamlining custody disputes and support payments in the state. The reforms come after years of advocacy from family law practitioners, parents, and advocates for a more efficient and fair system for addressing family law issues.One of the key components of the new law is the establishment of a presumption of shared custody in divorce cases. This means that judges will now be required to consider joint custody arrangements unless there is clear evidence that it is not in the best interests of the child. Proponents of this change argue that shared custody can be beneficial for children, as it ensures that both parents have a significant role in their upbringing.Another significant change introduced by the reforms is the implementation of a standardized formula for calculating child support payments. This formula takes into account the income of both parents, as well as the needs of the child, to ensure that support payments are fair and appropriate. This is expected to reduce disputes over support payments and provide greater consistency in how these payments are calculated.In addition to these major changes, the reforms also include provisions for alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation and arbitration, to help parents resolve custody and support issues outside of the courtroom. This is seen as a way to reduce the emotional and financial costs associated with lengthy court battles and promote more amicable resolutions.Governor Johnson hailed the reforms as a step forward for Wisconsin families, stating that they will help to create a more efficient and fair system for addressing family law issues. He expressed hope that the changes will lead to better outcomes for children and parents alike, and ultimately strengthen families across the state.The new family law reforms are set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, giving families and practitioners time to adjust to the changes. It is hoped that these reforms will lead to a more streamlined and efficient family law system in Wisconsin, ensuring that families have access to the support and resources they need to navigate difficult transitions.