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Family & Guardianships in Wisconsin
Family & Guardianship Counsel You Can Understand
Family and guardianship matters touch the most important parts of life. You deserve counsel that is clear, practical, and responsive. At Attorney Jacob R. Gardner LLC, I bring a J.D. and MBA perspective to help you plan wisely, control costs, and move forward with confidence—serving Green, Dane, Rock, Lafayette, Grant, and Iowa Counties in Wisconsin.
Divorce
Guidance from first steps to final orders. Whether you anticipate an uncontested divorce or a more complex case, we start with a strategy session to define goals, identify deadlines, and set an efficient path forward.
We help clients with:
- Property division and debt allocation
- Maintenance ("Alimony")
- Parenting plans, custody, and placement of children
- Temporary orders, mediation preparation, and negotiation
- Divorce trials when agreements cannot be reached
We approach all family matters settlement-minded but trial-ready. We provide clear explanations of options, likely timelines, and provide cost-transparency to our clients.
Custody & Placement
In Wisconsin, legal custody is decision‑making authority for major issues like education and health care. Physical placement is the schedule for where the child resides.
Focus:
- Best interests of the child
- Stability and workable, age‑appropriate schedules
- Practical plans for holidays, transportation, and communication
Example Services:
- Drafting and negotiating parenting plans
- Mediation preparation and coaching
- Motion practice when modifications are needed
Child Support
Child support should reflect real‑world finances and parenting time. We analyze income, overnights, and special expenses (child care, health, activities) and advise on modification or enforcement when circumstances change.
We assist with:
- Initial support orders
- Revisions after a material change in circumstances
- Enforcement and arrears issues
Adoption
Growing your family through adoption is joyful—and paperwork heavy. I guide stepparent, relative, and private adoptions with clear checklists and court‑ready filings. Whether it is a traditional adoption or an adult adoption, we are here to help.
Services include:
- Petitions and consents
- Background and report coordination
- Hearing preparation and finalization
Guardianships (Adults & Minors)
When a loved one needs help with decisions or daily safety, guardianship may be appropriate. We also explore alternatives such as health‑care and financial powers of attorney and supported decision‑making agreements.
Adult Guardianships:
- Person, estate, or limited guardianship
- Physician or evaluator coordination
- Court filings, hearing preparation, and post‑appointment guidance
Minor Guardianships:
- Temporary and permanent arrangements
- School, medical, and placement considerations
- Collaboration with the guardian ad litem (GAL)
FAQs
What’s the difference between custody and placement? Custody is decision‑making authority; placement is the parenting time schedule.
Can my parenting plan be changed? Yes, if circumstances have materially changed, or if two-years have passed since the last order, the court may consider modifications.
Do all divorces go to trial? No. Many (most) resolve through negotiated agreements approved by the court.
How is child support calculated? Wisconsin uses guidelines that consider income and overnights; we apply them to your facts.
How long does a guardianship take? Timelines vary by county and required evaluations; we’ll map the process at consultation.
This page provides general information and is not legal advice. Contact our office to discuss your specific situation.