La Crosse County Divorce Records
What Are La Crosse County Divorce Records?
Divorce records in La Crosse County are official legal documents that provide documentation of the dissolution of a marriage within the county's jurisdiction. These records are maintained as part of the public record pursuant to Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 767, which governs actions affecting the family, including divorce proceedings.
Divorce records typically consist of several components:
- The initial divorce petition or complaint
- Temporary orders issued during proceedings
- Financial disclosure statements
- Marital settlement agreements
- Final judgment of divorce (divorce decree)
- Child custody and support arrangements, if applicable
- Property division determinations
These documents are processed and maintained by the La Crosse County Clerk of Courts, which serves as the official custodian of court records for the county. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services Vital Records Office also maintains a registry of divorce certificates, which serve as official verification that a divorce was granted.
La Crosse County Clerk of Courts 212 6th Street North, Room 1200 La Crosse, WI 54601 Phone: (608) 785-9590 La Crosse County Clerk of Courts
Are La Crosse County Divorce Records Public?
La Crosse County divorce records are generally considered public records in accordance with Wisconsin's Open Records Law (Wis. Stat. §§ 19.31-19.39). This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including court records, should be accessible to the public to ensure transparency in governmental affairs.
Members of the public may access divorce records through several means:
- In-person requests at the La Crosse County Courthouse
- Online access through the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) portal
- Written requests to the Clerk of Courts office
- Requests to the Wisconsin Vital Records Office for divorce certificates
Certain limitations to public access may apply in specific circumstances:
- Records containing sensitive financial information may be partially redacted
- Cases involving domestic violence may have protective measures in place
- Records pertaining to minor children may have restricted access
- Cases sealed by judicial order are not publicly accessible
The Wisconsin Court System maintains that public access to court records serves the important function of providing transparency in judicial proceedings while balancing privacy concerns in sensitive matters. Pursuant to Wisconsin Supreme Court Rule 72, court records must be maintained and made accessible according to established retention schedules and access protocols.
How To Find a Divorce Record In La Crosse County in 2025
Individuals seeking divorce records in La Crosse County in 2025 may utilize several official channels to obtain this information. The Wisconsin court system has established multiple pathways for accessing these public records.
To locate a divorce record in La Crosse County, requestors may:
- Visit the La Crosse County Clerk of Courts office in person during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM)
- Submit a written request by mail, including the names of both parties, approximate date of divorce, and case number if known
- Access the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access portal for basic case information
- Contact the Wisconsin Vital Records Office for certified divorce certificates
When requesting records in person, individuals must:
- Complete a records request form available at the Clerk's office
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay applicable fees ($5.00 per record search, plus $1.25 per page for copies)
- Allow processing time, which may vary based on the age and complexity of the record
For divorce records dating back more than 20 years, requestors may need to contact the Wisconsin Historical Society, as older records may have been transferred to their archives pursuant to the state's records retention schedule.
Wisconsin Vital Records Office 1 West Wilson Street, Room 158 Madison, WI 53703 Phone: (608) 266-1373 Wisconsin Department of Health Services - Vital Records
How To Look Up Divorce Records in La Crosse County Online?
La Crosse County divorce records can be accessed online through several official digital platforms maintained by Wisconsin state and county agencies. The Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) system, commonly known as CCAP, serves as the primary online resource for court records.
To search for divorce records online, users should:
- Navigate to the Wisconsin Court System Case Search website
- Select "La Crosse County" from the county dropdown menu
- Enter search criteria such as party names (last name, first name)
- Select "Family" under case types to narrow results to divorce proceedings
- Review the list of matching cases, which will display basic information including:
- Case number
- Filing date
- Case status
- Party names
- Judgment date, if applicable
The online system provides case summaries and docket information but does not include complete case files or images of actual documents. For comprehensive records or certified copies, users must contact the La Crosse County Clerk of Courts directly.
Additional online resources include:
- La Crosse County website which provides information about county services and links to court resources
- Wisconsin State Law Library which offers legal research assistance and guidance on accessing court records
Users should note that pursuant to Wisconsin Supreme Court Rule 72.01, certain sensitive information may be redacted from online records, including social security numbers, financial account numbers, and information regarding minor children.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In La Crosse County?
Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in La Crosse County have several options available through publicly funded resources. Wisconsin's commitment to government transparency provides multiple avenues for free record searches.
Free access to divorce records is available through:
- The Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) website, which provides basic case information at no charge
- Public access terminals located at the La Crosse County Courthouse, available during regular business hours
- The La Crosse Public Library, which offers free internet access for online searches
- The Wisconsin State Law Library, which provides research assistance and access to legal materials
When using public access terminals at the courthouse, individuals may:
- Search cases by name, case number, or filing date
- View basic case information and court proceedings
- Review judgment information and case status
It should be noted that while searching records is free, obtaining copies or certified documents will incur standard fees as established by Wisconsin Statutes § 814.61. Current fees include:
- $1.25 per page for photocopies
- $5.00 for certification of copies
- $5.00 for authentication with county seal
La Crosse Public Library 800 Main Street La Crosse, WI 54601 Phone: (608) 789-7100 La Crosse Public Library
What's Included in a Divorce Records In La Crosse County
Divorce records in La Crosse County contain comprehensive documentation of the legal dissolution of marriage. These records are maintained pursuant to Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 767 and include multiple components that document the entire divorce proceeding.
A complete divorce file typically contains:
- Summons and Petition for Divorce - The initial filing that states grounds for divorce and requested relief
- Financial Disclosure Statements - Detailed accounting of assets, liabilities, income, and expenses from both parties
- Marital Settlement Agreement - The negotiated agreement addressing property division, support, and other matters
- Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, and Judgment - The court's final determination and orders
- Divorce Certificate - Official document verifying the dissolution of marriage
Additional documents that may be included:
- Temporary Orders - Court directives regarding support, custody, or residence during proceedings
- Guardian ad Litem Reports - If appointed in cases involving minor children
- Domestic Abuse Restraining Orders - If applicable to the case
- Child Support Worksheets - Calculations used to determine support obligations
- Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) - For division of retirement accounts
The level of detail in these records varies based on the complexity of the case and whether the divorce was contested or uncontested. Records involving minor children contain additional documentation regarding custody arrangements, placement schedules, and support calculations.
Pursuant to Wisconsin Supreme Court Rule 72, these records are maintained by the Clerk of Courts and are subject to specific retention schedules based on document type and significance.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In La Crosse County?
Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in La Crosse County may obtain verification through several authorized channels. The type of proof needed often depends on the purpose for which it will be used.
To obtain official proof of divorce, requestors may:
-
Request a Certificate of Divorce from the Wisconsin Vital Records Office:
- Submit application form F-05280
- Provide identification
- Pay the statutory fee ($20 for the first copy, $3 for each additional copy)
- Allow 2-3 weeks for processing by mail, or receive same-day service in person
-
Obtain a certified copy of the divorce judgment from the La Crosse County Clerk of Courts:
- Submit a written request including names of parties and approximate date of divorce
- Pay the certification fee ($5.00 plus $1.25 per page)
- Present valid photo identification
-
Request a Letter of Verification from the Clerk of Courts, which confirms the divorce date and case number
For international purposes, such as remarriage in another country, requestors may need:
- An apostille from the Wisconsin Secretary of State (additional $10 fee)
- Multiple certified copies of the divorce judgment
- Translations of documents, if required by the foreign jurisdiction
Wisconsin Secretary of State P.O. Box 7848 Madison, WI 53707 Phone: (608) 266-8888 Wisconsin Secretary of State
Pursuant to Wisconsin Statutes § 69.21, only certain individuals are eligible to receive certified copies of vital records, including the divorced parties, their legal representatives, or persons with a direct and tangible interest in the record.
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In La Crosse County?
While divorce proceedings in La Crosse County are generally matters of public record, Wisconsin law provides certain mechanisms for maintaining confidentiality in specific circumstances. The Wisconsin Supreme Court has established rules governing access to court records that balance public transparency with privacy concerns.
Confidentiality measures available in divorce cases include:
- Sealing of Records - Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 767.127(3), financial disclosure statements may be sealed upon motion and good cause shown
- Redaction of Sensitive Information - Personal identifiers such as social security numbers, financial account numbers, and certain information about minor children must be redacted from public court filings
- Confidential Petition - In cases involving domestic abuse, parties may file under Wisconsin Statute § 767.215(5) to maintain confidentiality of their address and contact information
- Closed Hearings - In limited circumstances, the court may conduct proceedings in chambers or close the courtroom to the public
To request confidentiality measures, parties must:
- File a formal motion with the court demonstrating specific grounds for confidentiality
- Obtain a court order explicitly directing the sealing or redaction of records
- Comply with Wisconsin Supreme Court Rule 70.19 regarding confidential court records
The court applies a balancing test weighing the presumption of openness against legitimate privacy concerns or safety risks. Complete confidentiality of an entire divorce proceeding is rare and granted only in exceptional circumstances where the court determines that the harm of disclosure substantially outweighs the public interest in access to court records.
Parties seeking confidentiality should consult with legal counsel regarding the specific provisions available under Wisconsin law for their particular circumstances.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In La Crosse County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in La Crosse County varies based on several factors, including case complexity and the level of agreement between parties. Wisconsin law establishes certain timeframes that affect all divorce cases within the state.
The minimum timeline for divorce in La Crosse County includes:
- Mandatory 120-day waiting period from service of the petition to final hearing, pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 767.335
- 60-day residency requirement in Wisconsin before filing (with at least 30 days in La Crosse County)
- Approximately 4-8 weeks for initial temporary orders hearings, if requested
Typical timeframes for different types of divorces:
-
Uncontested divorces with complete agreement:
- 4-6 months from filing to finalization
- Requires completed marital settlement agreement
- May be expedited through the court's cooperative divorce program
-
Contested divorces with partial disagreements:
- 6-12 months from filing to finalization
- May require mediation for resolution of disputed issues
- Often involves temporary orders during pendency
-
Highly contested divorces:
- 12-24 months or longer
- May require appointment of experts for business valuation or custody evaluation
- Often involves multiple court appearances and potential trial
Factors that may extend the timeline include:
- Court calendar congestion
- Discovery disputes
- Complex property division issues
- Child custody disagreements
- Appeals of temporary orders
- Requests for guardian ad litem investigation
The La Crosse County Circuit Court Family Division strives to process cases efficiently while ensuring due process and thorough consideration of all relevant factors. Parties seeking expedited processing should consult with legal counsel regarding available options under local court rules.
How Long Does La Crosse County Keep Divorce Records?
La Crosse County maintains divorce records according to the Wisconsin Supreme Court Rule 72, which establishes retention schedules for court records throughout the state. These schedules ensure the preservation of important legal documents while allowing for the eventual disposition of less critical materials.
Retention periods for divorce records in La Crosse County:
- Final Judgments of Divorce - Permanent retention
- Case Files (complete record) - 30 years from date of filing
- Financial Disclosure Statements - 1 year after entry of final judgment
- Exhibits - 1 year after entry of final judgment, unless returned to parties
- Audio Recordings of Proceedings - 10 years from date of hearing
- Confidential Records - Subject to same retention periods but with restricted access
After the designated retention period expires, records may be:
- Transferred to the Wisconsin Historical Society for permanent archival preservation
- Converted to electronic format for continued accessibility
- Destroyed according to approved disposition procedures
Individuals seeking older divorce records should note:
- Records over 30 years old may require a search request to the Wisconsin Historical Society
- Microfilmed or digitized records may be available even after paper originals have been destroyed
- Basic case information may be retained in court indices even after full files are no longer available
Wisconsin Historical Society 816 State Street Madison, WI 53706 Phone: (608) 264-6535 Wisconsin Historical Society
Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 59.40(2), the Clerk of Courts is responsible for proper maintenance and eventual disposition of court records according to these established schedules.
How To Get a Divorce In La Crosse County
Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in La Crosse County must follow procedures established under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 767. The divorce process, legally termed "dissolution of marriage," requires adherence to specific legal requirements and court procedures.
To initiate a divorce in La Crosse County, petitioners must:
-
Meet residency requirements:
- At least one spouse must have been a Wisconsin resident for at least 6 months
- At least one spouse must have been a La Crosse County resident for at least 30 days
-
File required documents with the La Crosse County Clerk of Courts:
- Summons and Petition for Divorce (Form FA-4104)
- Confidential Petition Addendum (Form GF-179)
- Filing fee of $184.50 (as of 2025)
-
Serve the non-filing spouse with copies of all documents:
- Personal service by sheriff or process server
- Alternatively, the non-filing spouse may sign an Admission of Service
-
Complete mandatory parenting education if minor children are involved:
- "Coping with Divorce" program through Family & Children's Center
- Certificate of completion must be filed with the court
-
Exchange financial disclosure statements within 90 days of filing:
- Financial Disclosure Form (FA-4139)
- Supporting documentation including tax returns, pay stubs, and asset valuations
-
Attend any required court appearances:
- Initial hearing for temporary orders if requested
- Status conferences as scheduled by the court
- Final hearing after the 120-day waiting period
The court strongly encourages mediation to resolve disputed issues. Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 767.405, mediation is mandatory for cases involving child custody or placement disputes.
Family & Children's Center 1707 Main Street La Crosse, WI 54601 Phone: (608) 785-0001 Family & Children's Center
How To Get Divorce Papers In La Crosse County
Individuals seeking to initiate divorce proceedings in La Crosse County can obtain the necessary legal forms through several official channels. Wisconsin has standardized divorce forms that must be completed according to specific guidelines.
Divorce papers may be obtained from:
- La Crosse County Clerk of Courts Office - Forms available in person during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:30 PM)
- Wisconsin Court System website - Downloadable forms with instructions
- La Crosse County Law Library - Reference copies and limited assistance available
- Wisconsin Free Legal Answers - Online resource for form identification
The basic forms required for filing include:
- Petition for Divorce/Legal Separation (Form FA-4104)
- Summons (Form FA-4104)
- Confidential Petition Addendum (Form GF-179)
- Financial Disclosure Statement (Form FA-4139)
Additional forms that may be required depending on circumstances:
- Affidavit of Service (Form FA-4120)
- Order to Show Cause and Affidavit for Temporary Order (Form FA-4128/FA-4129)
- Proposed Parenting Plan (Form FA-4147) if minor children are involved
- Marital Settlement Agreement (Form FA-4150/FA-4151)
Pursuant to Wisconsin Supreme Court Rule 70.153-155, court forms must be used in the format approved by the Judicial Conference. Alterations to standard forms may result in rejection by the Clerk of Courts.
La Crosse County Law Library 212 6th Street North, Room 2205 La Crosse, WI 54601 Phone: (608) 785-9615 Wisconsin State Law Library - La Crosse County Resources
Lookup Divorce Records in La Crosse County
Wisconsin Court System Case Search
La Crosse County Register of Deeds
La Crosse County Clerk of Courts
Wisconsin Department of Health Services - Vital Records