Sheboygan Public Records /Sheboygan County Divorce Records

Sheboygan County Divorce Records

What Are Sheboygan County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Sheboygan County are official legal documents that provide evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the county's jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 767.35, which governs divorce proceedings and record-keeping requirements throughout the state. Divorce records typically consist of court filings, judgments, and certificates that document the legal termination of a marriage.

The Sheboygan County Clerk of Circuit Court maintains these records as part of their official duties. Divorce records serve multiple important purposes:

Legal proof of marital status change
Documentation required for remarriage
Evidence for name change processes
Verification for Social Security benefits
Supporting documentation for loan applications
Required evidence for immigration matters
Historical and genealogical research

Divorce records in Sheboygan County are categorized as both court records (the case file) and vital records (the certificate of divorce). The Wisconsin Court System maintains court records, while the Wisconsin Department of Health Services maintains vital records certificates through their Vital Records Office.

Are Sheboygan County Divorce Records Public?

Sheboygan County divorce records have varying levels of public accessibility depending on the specific document type. Under the Wisconsin Public Records Law § 19.31-19.39, most court records, including divorce case files, are presumed to be open to public inspection. However, this access is subject to important limitations and exceptions.

Court divorce case files generally available to the public include:

Petitions for divorce
Financial disclosure statements
Court orders and judgments
Hearing transcripts
Settlement agreements (unless sealed)

However, certain components of divorce records may be restricted from public view:

Records containing sensitive financial information
Documents with children's personal information
Records sealed by judicial order
Confidential placement evaluations
Certain domestic abuse information

Certified divorce certificates, which are vital records maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, have more restricted access. According to state regulations, only the following individuals may obtain certified copies:

Either party named on the divorce record
Immediate family members with legitimate interest
Legal representatives of eligible parties
Individuals with court orders authorizing access
Government agencies performing official functions

Members of the public without a direct interest may obtain uncertified informational copies that contain limited details but cannot be used for legal purposes.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Sheboygan County in 2026

Individuals seeking divorce records in Sheboygan County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The appropriate approach depends on the specific type of record needed and its intended use.

For divorce court case files:

Contact the Sheboygan County Clerk of Circuit Court directly:

Sheboygan County Clerk of Circuit Court
615 N 6th Street
Sheboygan, WI 53081
(920) 459-3068
Sheboygan County Clerk of Courts

Provide the clerk with essential information:
- Full names of both parties (including maiden names)
- Approximate date of divorce filing or finalization
- Case number (if known)
- Personal identification
Pay the applicable search and copy fees:
- Record search fee: $5-20 (varies based on search parameters)
- Copy fees: $1.25-$2.00 per page
- Certification fee (if needed): $5 per document

For certified divorce certificates:

Submit a request to the Wisconsin Vital Records Office:

Wisconsin Vital Records Office
1 West Wilson Street, Room 158
Madison, WI 53703
(608) 266-1373
Wisconsin Department of Health Services Vital Records

Complete the required application form with:
- Names of both parties
- Date of divorce
- County where divorce occurred
- Reason for request
- Proof of identification and eligibility
Pay the current fee structure:
- $20 for the first copy
- $3 for each additional copy ordered at the same time

Requests may be submitted in person, by mail, or through authorized third-party providers depending on urgency and convenience requirements.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Sheboygan County Online?

Sheboygan County residents and other authorized individuals may access certain divorce records through online platforms maintained by state and county agencies. The Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) portal, commonly known as CCAP, serves as the primary online resource for accessing divorce case information.

To search for divorce records online:

Visit the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access website
Select "Case Search" from the main navigation menu
Choose from available search options:
- Advanced Case Search (recommended for divorce records)
- Simple Case Search (requires more specific information)
Enter search criteria:
- Select "Sheboygan County" as the jurisdiction
- Choose "Family" as the case type
- Enter party name(s) - last name is required
- Specify date range if known
Review search results showing:
- Case numbers
- Filing dates
- Party names
- Case status
- Judge assigned
- Basic case events

It is important to note that online records have limitations:

Documents filed before approximately 2000 may not be available electronically
Complete case files are not viewable online - only case summaries and basic information
Sealed or confidential portions of cases will not appear
Certified copies cannot be obtained through the online system

For comprehensive divorce records or certified copies, individuals must still contact the Sheboygan County Clerk of Circuit Court or the Wisconsin Vital Records Office directly. The Wisconsin State Law Library provides additional guidance on accessing county-specific legal resources.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Sheboygan County?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Sheboygan County have several options available, though these methods typically provide limited information compared to paid services.

Free access options include:

Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) website:
- Provides basic case information at no charge
- Accessible at https://wcca.wicourts.gov/
- Includes party names, case numbers, filing dates, and hearing schedules
- Does not provide document images or complete case files
In-person inspection at the courthouse:
- Visit the Sheboygan County Courthouse during regular business hours
- Request to view specific divorce case files at public access terminals
- No fee for viewing records (copying fees still apply)
- Photo ID required for access to certain records
Sheboygan County Law Library:
- Located within the Sheboygan County Courthouse
- Provides public access computers for legal research
- Staff may assist with locating basic record information
- Limited to business hours and available workstations
Public libraries with legal research resources:
- Some libraries offer access to legal databases
- May provide guidance on accessing public records
- Resources vary by location

While viewing basic record information may be free, fees still apply for:

Printed copies of documents
Certified copies of any records
Research assistance beyond basic guidance
Records requiring special handling or extensive searches

Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 814.61(10), courts are authorized to charge reasonable fees for searching and copying records, even when initial viewing is provided at no cost.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Sheboygan County

Divorce records in Sheboygan County contain comprehensive documentation of the marriage dissolution process. These records typically include multiple document types that collectively provide a complete legal account of the divorce proceedings.

Court case files generally contain:

Petition for Divorce/Dissolution - The initial filing that states grounds for divorce and requested relief
Summons - Official notice to the respondent about the divorce action
Financial Disclosure Statements - Detailed accounting of assets, debts, income, and expenses
Marital Settlement Agreement - Terms negotiated between parties regarding property division, support, and other matters
Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law - Court's determinations on relevant factual and legal issues
Judgment of Divorce - Final court order terminating the marriage and establishing rights and obligations
Child Support Worksheets - Calculations used to determine support obligations (if applicable)
Parenting Plans - Detailed arrangements for child custody and placement (if applicable)
Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) - Instructions for dividing retirement accounts
Transcripts of Hearings - Official record of court proceedings
Exhibits - Supporting documentation submitted as evidence

Certified divorce certificates, issued by the Wisconsin Vital Records Office, contain more limited information:

Full names of both parties
Date of divorce finalization
County where divorce was granted
Case number
Official certification

The level of detail in divorce records varies based on whether the divorce was contested or uncontested, whether minor children were involved, and the complexity of property division. Records may also include temporary orders issued during proceedings and any post-judgment modifications.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Sheboygan County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Sheboygan County have multiple options for obtaining legally recognized documentation. The appropriate method depends on the specific purpose for which proof is needed.

For most official purposes, a certified copy of the divorce certificate serves as the standard proof of divorce. To obtain this document:

Submit a request to the Wisconsin Vital Records Office:

Wisconsin Vital Records Office
1 West Wilson Street, Room 158
Madison, WI 53703
(608) 266-1373
Wisconsin Department of Health Services Vital Records

Complete the required application with:
- Full names of both parties (including maiden name if applicable)
- Date of divorce (approximate if exact date unknown)
- County where divorce was granted
- Purpose for requesting the certificate
- Proof of identification and eligibility to receive records
Pay the required fee:
- $20 for the first copy
- $3 for each additional copy ordered simultaneously
- Additional fees may apply for expedited processing

Alternative proof options include:

Certified copy of the Judgment of Divorce from the Sheboygan County Clerk of Circuit Court:

Sheboygan County Clerk of Circuit Court
615 N 6th Street
Sheboygan, WI 53081
(920) 459-3068
Sheboygan County Clerk of Courts

Court exemplification (for international use):
- Enhanced certification with additional seals and signatures
- Required for some foreign countries
- Higher fees apply ($15-25 per document)
Divorce verification letter:
- Available from the Wisconsin Vital Records Office
- Confirms divorce occurred without providing full certificate
- Lower cost alternative ($10)

Processing times vary based on the method chosen:

In-person requests at local offices: Same day to 3 business days
Mail requests: 2-4 weeks for standard processing
Online requests through third-party providers: Variable timeframes

Applicants should verify which form of proof is required for their specific needs, as some agencies require the certificate while others accept the judgment.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Sheboygan County?

While Wisconsin law generally presumes court records are public, certain aspects of divorce proceedings in Sheboygan County may be kept confidential under specific circumstances. The Wisconsin Supreme Court has established rules governing confidentiality in court records under Wisconsin Statute § 801.21, which provides mechanisms for sealing or redacting sensitive information.

Circumstances where confidentiality may be granted include:

Sealing by judicial order:
- Either party may file a motion requesting specific documents be sealed
- Court must find compelling reasons that outweigh the public interest
- Judge issues specific order identifying which documents are sealed
- Sealed records remain accessible only to parties and their attorneys
Automatic confidentiality for certain documents:
- Financial disclosure statements
- Medical and health information
- Psychological evaluations
- Guardian ad litem reports
- Information about minor children
- Social Security numbers and financial account numbers
Domestic abuse considerations:
- Address confidentiality for victims of domestic abuse
- Safety plans and protective measures
- Certain affidavits related to domestic violence
Alternative proceedings:
- Collaborative divorce processes
- Mediation sessions and records
- Settlement negotiations

To request confidentiality for divorce records:

File a motion with the Sheboygan County Circuit Court
Clearly identify specific documents to be sealed
Provide legal justification citing relevant statutes
Demonstrate how public disclosure would cause harm
Propose the least restrictive means of protecting information

It is important to note that complete confidentiality of an entire divorce case is extremely rare. Courts typically seal only specific documents rather than entire case files. Even when records are sealed, basic case information (names of parties, case number, judge assigned) generally remains public.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Sheboygan County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Sheboygan County varies significantly based on multiple factors related to case complexity and the level of agreement between parties. Under Wisconsin Statute § 767.335, a mandatory 120-day waiting period exists between the service of the initial petition and the final hearing date, establishing the minimum timeframe for any divorce.

Typical timeframes for Sheboygan County divorces:

Uncontested divorces with complete agreement:
- 4-6 months from filing to finalization
- Requires full agreement on all issues
- Minimal court appearances
- Streamlined paperwork
Contested divorces with partial agreements:
- 6-12 months from filing to finalization
- Requires negotiation on disputed issues
- Multiple court appearances
- Possible mediation sessions
Highly contested divorces:
- 12-24+ months from filing to finalization
- Significant disagreement on major issues
- Multiple hearings and motions
- Possible trial on contested matters
- Expert witnesses and extensive discovery

Factors that influence timeframes include:

Court calendar congestion in Sheboygan County
Complexity of marital estate and property division
Presence of minor children and custody disputes
Need for business valuations or complex asset appraisals
Cooperation level between parties and attorneys
Temporary orders and emergency motions
Judge assignment and scheduling preferences

According to the Wisconsin Court System statistical reports, the average time to disposition for family cases in Sheboygan County is approximately 7.2 months, though individual cases may vary significantly from this average.

Parties seeking to minimize the duration of divorce proceedings are encouraged to:

Participate in alternative dispute resolution
Prepare complete financial disclosures early
Consider collaborative divorce processes
Maintain realistic expectations about outcomes
Focus on areas of potential agreement

How Long Does Sheboygan County Keep Divorce Records?

Sheboygan County maintains divorce records according to Wisconsin's records retention schedules, which establish different preservation periods based on record type and historical significance. The Wisconsin Supreme Court's record retention rules, codified under Supreme Court Rule 72, govern how long court records must be preserved.

Retention periods for different types of divorce records:

Court case files:
- Complete case files: Minimum of 20 years from date of entry of final judgment
- Cases with minor children: Until the youngest child reaches age 30
- Cases with ongoing financial obligations: Until all obligations terminate
- Cases selected for historical preservation: Permanent retention
Judgment records:
- Microfilmed or electronically stored judgments: Permanent retention
- Judgment docket entries: Permanent retention
- Judgment indices: Permanent retention
Vital records (divorce certificates):
- Maintained permanently by the Wisconsin Vital Records Office
- Available indefinitely for certified copies
- Historical records (pre-1907) may be maintained by county register of deeds
Financial records related to divorce:
- Support payment records: 7 years after final payment
- Financial disclosure statements: Minimum of 7 years

After the mandatory retention period expires, records may be:

Transferred to the Wisconsin Historical Society
Converted to electronic format for extended preservation
Destroyed according to approved disposition procedures
Maintained longer at the discretion of the clerk

Individuals seeking older divorce records should note:

Records from approximately 1907 forward are generally available
Pre-1907 records may have limited availability
Some historical records may be accessible through the Wisconsin Historical Society
Electronic availability typically extends back to approximately 2000

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services maintains a statewide index of vital records, including divorces, dating back to October 1907.

How To Get a Divorce In Sheboygan County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Sheboygan County must follow Wisconsin's established legal procedures. The process involves multiple steps and varies depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested.

To initiate a divorce in Sheboygan County:

Verify eligibility requirements:
- At least one spouse must have been a Wisconsin resident for at least 6 months
- At least one spouse must have been a resident of Sheboygan County for at least 30 days
- Marriage must be legally recognized in Wisconsin
Obtain and complete required forms:
- Petition for Divorce/Legal Separation (FA-4104)
- Summons (FA-4104)
- Confidential Petition Addendum (GF-179)
- Financial Disclosure Statement (FA-4139)
- Additional forms for cases involving children
Forms are available from:

Sheboygan County Clerk of Circuit Court
615 N 6th Street
Sheboygan, WI 53081
(920) 459-3068
Sheboygan County Clerk of Courts

Or online through the Wisconsin Court System
File completed paperwork with the Clerk of Circuit Court:
- Pay filing fee (approximately $184.50)
- Fee waivers available for qualifying low-income individuals
- Receive case number and initial court date
Serve divorce papers on spouse:
- Personal service by sheriff or process server
- Publication if spouse cannot be located
- Voluntary acceptance of service
- Proof of service must be filed with court
Complete mandatory parenting classes (if children involved)
Attend temporary orders hearing (if requested)
Exchange complete financial information
Negotiate settlement or prepare for trial:
- Mediation services available
- Four-way conferences with attorneys
- Court-appointed guardian ad litem for children if custody disputed
Attend final hearing:
- Present settlement agreement or argue contested issues
- Judge reviews all documents
- Court issues final judgment
Implement judgment provisions:
- Transfer titles and property
- Establish support payment mechanisms
- Execute QDROs for retirement accounts
- Update estate planning documents

Wisconsin is a "no-fault" divorce state, meaning neither party must prove wrongdoing. The only legal ground for divorce is that the marriage is "irretrievably broken" with no reasonable prospect of reconciliation.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Sheboygan County

Individuals seeking to initiate or respond to divorce proceedings in Sheboygan County have multiple options for obtaining the necessary legal forms. These documents constitute the foundation of the divorce process and must be completed accurately to avoid delays.

Methods for obtaining divorce papers in Sheboygan County:

In-person at the courthouse:

Sheboygan County Clerk of Circuit Court
615 N 6th Street
Sheboygan, WI 53081
(920) 459-3068
Sheboygan County Clerk of Courts

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Staff can provide basic forms packets
Nominal fee may apply for printed materials
No legal advice provided by clerk staff

Online through official sources:

Wisconsin Court System Forms - Official court-approved forms
Wisconsin Law Library - County-specific legal resources
Forms available in fillable PDF format
Free to download and print
Instructions included with most form packets

Through legal assistance programs:

Sheboygan County Family Law Assistance Program
Legal Action of Wisconsin (for qualifying low-income individuals)
Wisconsin Free Legal Answers (online assistance)
Law libraries with self-help centers

From private attorneys:

Consultation fees typically apply
Customized forms based on specific situation
Professional guidance on completion
May offer unbundled services for form preparation only

Essential divorce forms typically include:

Summons and Petition for Divorce (FA-4104)
Confidential Petition Addendum (GF-179)
Financial Disclosure Statement (FA-4139)
Marital Settlement Agreement (FA-4150/FA-4151)
Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, and Judgment (FA-4161)
Additional forms for cases involving children

Individuals should select forms appropriate to their specific circumstances:

With or without minor children
With or without significant property
Contested or uncontested divorce
With or without maintenance (alimony) requests

The City of Sheboygan Clerk's Office can provide information about obtaining certified copies of marriage certificates, which may be required during the divorce process.

Lookup Divorce Records in Sheboygan County

Wisconsin Court System case search

Wisconsin Department of Health Services Vital Records

City of Sheboygan Clerk's Office

Wisconsin State Law Library - Sheboygan County Legal Resources

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