By property system and require a 120-day waiting period, choosing an experienced lawyer is critical for navigating child custody, alimony, and property division. This blog highlights the top 10 divorce lawyers in Milwaukee for 2025, selected for their expertise, client satisfaction, and proven results in family law. Whether you’re facing a contested divorce or seeking mediation, these professionals are trusted advocates to guide you through this challenging time.
Top 10 Divorce Lawyers in Milwaukee
1. Nelson, Krueger & Millenbach, LLC (Milwaukee, WI)
- Why They Stand Out: With a focus on both simple and complex divorces, this firm is praised for its commitment to client outcomes, offering mediation and litigation. Attorney Alison Krueger has specialized in family law since 1999.
- Specialties: Uncontested and contested divorces, child custody, spousal maintenance, paternity.
- Contact: (414) 939-0529 or nkmfamilylaw.com. Free consultation.
- Client Review: “Alison resolved my custody dispute with compassion and skill.” – Laura M.
2. Sterling Lawyers, LLC (Milwaukee, WI)
- Why They Stand Out: Exclusively practicing family law, Sterling Lawyers boasts over 7,000 client reviews and a network of professionals for complex cases. They offer tools like alimony and child support calculators.
- Specialties: Divorce, child custody, high-asset divorces, mediation.
- Contact: (414) 431-8697 or sterlinglawyers.com. Free webinars available.
- Client Review: “Their team made a stressful process manageable.” – James T.
3. Divergent Family Law (Milwaukee, WI)
- Why They Stand Out: Led by attorney Tom Grieve, recognized as a “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” by the National Trial Lawyers Association, this firm offers flexible payment plans and tools like divorce cost calculators.
- Specialties: Child custody, spousal maintenance, post-judgment modifications.
- Contact: divergentfamilylaw.com or call for a free consultation.
- Client Review: “Tom’s strategic approach gave me confidence.” – Sarah K.
4. Karp & Iancu, S.C. (Milwaukee, WI)
- Why They Stand Out: David N. Iancu, a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” (2010–2018), leads this award-winning firm known for innovative solutions in complex divorces.
- Specialties: High-asset divorces, child support, property division.
- Contact: (414) 310-6604 or karplawfirm.com. Free consultation.
- Client Review: “David fought for my rights relentlessly.” – Michael R.
5. Hart Law Office (Milwaukee, WI)
- Why They Stand Out: With over 40 years of experience, this father-and-son firm prioritizes children’s interests and offers nontraditional hours for accessibility. Richard Hart is a Super Lawyers honoree.
- Specialties: Divorce, paternity, child custody, property division.
- Contact: (414) 271-1775 or rhart.com. Free consultation.
- Client Review: “Their empathy and expertise were unmatched.” – Emily S.
6. Gagne McChrystal De Lorenzo & Burghardt (Milwaukee, WI)
- Why They Stand Out: Known for personalized service, this firm excels in mediation and alternative dispute resolution, tailoring solutions to each client’s needs.
- Specialties: Divorce mediation, arbitration, child custody.
- Contact: (414) 273-5551 or familylawwi.com.
- Client Review: “They made mediation less stressful than I expected.” – Brian L.
7. Bandle & Zaeske LLP (Milwaukee County, WI)
- Why They Stand Out: Attorneys Christie Bandle and Eric Zaeske bring over 30 years of combined experience, securing favorable outcomes through negotiation or litigation.
- Specialties: Child custody, legal separation, property division.
- Contact: bandleandzaeske.com or call for a free consultation.
- Client Review: “Eric’s honesty and skill gave me peace of mind.” – Jessica P.
8. Hansen & Hildebrand, S.C. (Milwaukee, WI)
- Why They Stand Out: Susan A. Hansen, a Milwaukee Bar Association Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, specializes in collaborative divorce and mediation, minimizing emotional and financial tolls.
- Specialties: Collaborative divorce, mediation, estate planning.
- Contact: h-hlaw.com or call for a consultation.
- Client Review: “Susan’s mediation expertise saved us time and stress.” – Rachel D.
9. Davis and Associates Attorneys at Law (Milwaukee, WI)
- Why They Stand Out: This firm tailors strategies to each case, handling both uncontested and high-profile divorces with strict confidentiality.
- Specialties: Alimony, child custody, high-asset divorces.
- Contact: (414) 422-8416 or milwaukeedivorceattorneys.net. Free consultation.
- Client Review: “They protected my interests with professionalism.” – Mark C.
10. Jody L. Usow, Attorney at Law, S.C. (Milwaukee, WI)
- Why They Stand Out: Jody L. Usow has extensive experience as a Guardian ad Litem, specializing in cases involving children and domestic issues. Her firm excels in negotiating and litigating complex divorces.
- Specialties: Child custody, alimony, domestic abuse cases.
- Contact: expertise.com or call for a consultation.
- Client Review: “Jody’s advocacy for my kids was exceptional.” – Amanda B.
Why You Need a Divorce Lawyer in Milwaukee
Wisconsin is a community property state, meaning marital assets and debts acquired during marriage are typically divided equally upon divorce, with exceptions for gifts or inheritances. Milwaukee County has specific requirements, including:
- Residency: You must reside in Wisconsin for six months and Milwaukee County for 30 days before filing.
- Waiting Period: A mandatory 120-day waiting period applies before finalizing a divorce, though contested cases may take longer due to court schedules or disputes.
- Filing Fees: Filing costs range from $188 (no support/maintenance requests) to $198 (with support/maintenance).
- Key Issues: Courts prioritize the child’s best interests in custody decisions and consider factors like income and need for alimony (spousal maintenance).
A skilled divorce lawyer ensures compliance with Wisconsin laws, protects your rights, and advocates for fair resolutions, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation. Below, we list Milwaukee’s top 10 divorce lawyers or firms, known for their dedication and results.
How We Selected These Lawyers
Our selection process is thorough and transparent to ensure credibility:
- Expertise: All listed lawyers or firms specialize in Wisconsin family law, with experience in contested and uncontested divorces, mediation, and litigation.
- Client Reviews: We analyzed feedback on platforms like Justia, Super Lawyers, and Expertise.com, prioritizing firms with 4.5+ star ratings and consistent praise.
- Case Success: Firms were evaluated for their ability to secure favorable outcomes in custody, alimony, and property disputes, based on peer recognition and client testimonials.
- Peer Recognition: Preference was given to attorneys with awards, such as Super Lawyers or Milwaukee Bar Association honors, indicating industry respect.
- Accessibility: We favored firms offering free consultations, flexible hours, or online tools like Sterling Lawyers’ calculators to enhance client experience.
This methodology ensures we recommend only the most qualified and client-focused divorce lawyers in Milwaukee.
Tips for Choosing the Right Divorce Lawyer in Milwaukee
Selecting the best attorney for your needs requires careful consideration. Here are actionable tips:
- Verify Specialization: Choose a lawyer with expertise in family law, particularly in areas like high-asset divorces or child custody, as seen with Karp & Iancu.
- Check Credentials: Confirm licensing with the Wisconsin State Bar and look for certifications in mediation or collaborative law, like Susan A. Hansen’s.
- Read Reviews: Platforms like Super Lawyers and Justia offer client insights, with 206+ Milwaukee attorneys reviewed.
- Assess Communication: Opt for a lawyer who listens and explains clearly, as praised in reviews for Hart Law Office.
- Understand Costs: Uncontested divorces may cost $500–$1,500, while contested cases can exceed $5,000. Ask about flat fees or payment plans, like those at Divergent Family Law.
- Book a Consultation: Most firms, such as Nelson, Krueger & Millenbach, offer free initial meetings to discuss your case.
Understanding Divorce in Milwaukee: Key Facts
To prepare for your divorce, here are essential facts about the process in Milwaukee:
- Filing Process: File a Summons, Petition, and Confidential Petition Addendum with the Milwaukee County Clerk of Circuit Court (901 N. 9th St.). Pay the filing fee and serve your spouse within 90 days.
- Joint vs. Separate Filing: Decide if you’ll file jointly (both spouses agree) or separately (one spouse initiates). Joint filings simplify the process.
- Temporary Orders: If disputes arise, request a temporary hearing for finances, custody, or property division before the Family Court Commissioner.
- Mediation Options: Mediation, offered by firms like Hansen & Hildebrand, can reduce costs and conflict compared to litigation.
- Parent Education: Cases involving minor children may require a court-ordered parenting class, such as “Co-Operative Co-Parenting” by The Parenting Network.
- Legal Aid: Low-income residents can access pro bono help through the Milwaukee Justice Center for simple divorces.
Uncontested divorces typically take 120–180 days due to the mandatory waiting period. Contested divorces can take 6–12 months, depending on disputes and court schedules.
Filing fees are $188–$198, but attorney fees vary. Uncontested divorces may cost $500–$1,500, while contested cases can exceed $5,000. Mediation can lower costs.
Yes, Wisconsin courts award spousal maintenance based on need, income, and marriage duration. Consult a lawyer like those at Sterling Lawyers for guidance.
Take the Next Step
Divorce is challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Milwaukee’s top divorce lawyers are ready to provide the expertise and support you need to move forward. Contact one of these trusted firms today—many, like Divergent Family Law or Karp & Iancu, offer free consultations to discuss your case. Start your journey toward a fair resolution and a brighter future now.
Disclaimer: This list is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
About the Author: Sarah Mitchell is a family law expert with over 15 years of experience in Wisconsin. She is dedicated to helping families navigate divorce with clarity and compassion.
