Milwaukee County Circuit Court
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Document Limits
Communication
Phone
Fax
Page & Word Limits12 rules
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The court may permit an oversized postconviction motion or brief upon a timely showing of good cause, but a motion under Wis. Stat. § 974.06 may never exceed 20 pages.
Upon a showing of good cause made at or before filing a motion or brief, the court may permit the filing of a motion or brief exceeding these page limits, except that in no event may a motion brought pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 974.06 exceed 20 pages in length.
Motion
20 pages
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Support and opposition briefs for the covered motions may not exceed 10 pages, while briefs for class-certification motions may not exceed 25 pages; the court may disregard overlong briefs and may modify the limits for good cause.
E. Briefs in support or in opposition to such motions shall not exceed 10 pages in length, except that briefs filed in support or opposition to a motion for class certification shall not exceed 25 pages. Briefs in excess of the permitted length may be disregarded by the court. The court may modify these limitations upon a showing of good cause.
Brief
10 pages
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Support and opposition briefs for temporary-injunction or restraining-order motions may not exceed 10 pages; the court may disregard overlong briefs and may modify the limit for good cause.
D. Briefs in support or in opposition to motions for temporary injunctions or restraining orders shall not exceed 10 pages in length. Briefs in excess of the permitted length may be disregarded by the court. The court may modify these limitations upon a showing of good cause.
Brief
10 pages
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Support and opposition briefs in criminal habeas or certiorari matters are limited to 20 double-spaced pages and must comply with Rule 1.10; reply briefs are limited to 10 pages.
Briefs in support or opposition to petitions for habeas corpus or certiorari in cases arising from or related to criminal convictions shall not exceed 20 double-spaced pages in length and shall comply with Rule 1.10 (format). Reply briefs shall not exceed 10 pages.
Support Or Opposition Brief
20 pages
Reply Brief
10 pages
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Summarize in detail in no more than 2 pages the facts of the case, issues and theories of liability or defense and evidentiary issues.
Summary: The pretrial report must summarize the case facts, issues, liability or defense theories, and evidentiary issues in no more than two pages.
Pretrial Report
2 pages
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Motions and briefs exceeding these page limits may be disregarded.
Summary: Postconviction motions and briefs that exceed the applicable page limits may be disregarded by the court.
Motion
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Responsive briefs shall not exceed 20 pages in length.
Summary: Responsive briefs in postconviction motion proceedings may not exceed 20 pages.
Opposition
20 pages
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
The motion, including any accompanying brief, shall not exceed 20 double-spaced pages in length and shall comply with Rule 1.10 regarding format.
Summary: A postconviction motion and any accompanying brief may not exceed 20 double-spaced pages and must comply with Rule 1.10 formatting requirements.
Motion
20 pages
Brief
20 pages
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Reply briefs shall not exceed 10 pages.
Summary: Reply briefs in postconviction motion proceedings may not exceed 10 pages.
Reply
10 pages
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Unless the court grants permission in writing and in advance, the clerk shall not accept for filing any affidavit, including exhibits, which exceeds 250 pages in length, except affidavits in actions contesting insurance coverage to which the attached exhibits consist only of insurance policy documents.
Summary: Civil-division affidavits, including exhibits, may not exceed 250 pages unless the court gives advance written permission, with an exception for insurance-policy exhibits attached to affidavits contesting insurance coverage.
Affidavit
250 pages
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Briefs in support of or in opposition to such motions shall not exceed 25 pages in length and reply briefs shall not exceed 10 pages in length, exclusive of affidavits and exhibits.
Summary: Summary judgment support and opposition briefs are limited to 25 pages, and reply briefs are limited to 10 pages; affidavits and exhibits are excluded from those limits.
Support Or Opposition Brief
25 pages
Reply Brief
10 pages
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
The motion, including any accompanying brief, shall not exceed 20 double spaced pages in length and shall comply with Rule 1.10 regarding format. Responsive briefs shall not exceed 20 pages in length. Reply briefs shall not exceed 10 pages. Motions and briefs exceeding these page limits may be disregarded. Upon a showing of good cause made at or before filing a motion or brief, the court may permit the filing of a motion or brief exceeding these page limits, except that in no event may a motion brought pursuant to Wis. Stat. §§ 974.06 exceed 20 pages in length.
Summary: Postconviction motions, responsive briefs, and reply briefs are limited to 20, 20, and 10 pages respectively; the court may permit excess pages for good cause, except that a Wis. Stat. § 974.06 motion may never exceed 20 pages.
Postconviction Motion
20 pages
Responsive Brief
20 pages
Reply Brief
10 pages
Postconviction Motion
20 pages
Document Format Requirements32 rules
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The State Report of Adoption Form must use black ink, contain no whiteouts, cross-outs, or erasures, and have page 1 Sections I through IV completed completely.
State Report of Adoption Form. Use black ink only. No whiteouts, cross outs or erasures. Fill out page 1 (Sections I, II, III and IV) completely.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The Chapter 128 filing package requires a signed original and one copy of the petition and affidavit, three copies of the order, and two stamped envelopes addressed to the proposed trustee and the debtor or debtor's attorney.
4. Number of copies required for filing: a. The signed original and one copy of the Petition to Amortize Debts. b. The signed original and one copy of the Affidavit of Debts. c. Three copies of the Order Appointing Trustee and Enjoining Creditors. d. Two stamped envelopes, one addressed to the proposed trustee and one addressed to the debtor or the debtor’s attorney.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The required foreclosure mediation forms attached to the summons and complaint must be printed on pink paper.
the plaintiff shall attach to the summons and complaint served upon the mortgagor(s) the following forms printed on pink paper
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
A postconviction motion and any accompanying brief must comply with Rule 1.10 regarding format.
The motion, including any accompanying brief, shall not exceed 20 double-spaced pages in length and shall comply with Rule 1.10 regarding format.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Documents exceeding one page must be stapled or bound at the top-left corner, without a binding that prevents opening after court-file binding.
9. if consisting of more than one page, be stapled or otherwise bound at the top left- hand corner of the document; documents shall not be bound in such a way as to prevent them from being opened when they are bound to the court file through the holes punched at the head of the document;
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Documents must be printed on 8½-by-11-inch paper; oversized exhibits must be folded to 8½-by-11 inches or smaller.
1. be printed on 8 1/2 by 11 inch paper; exhibits exceeding those dimensions may be filed, but only if the paper is folded so as to reduce the size of the document to 8 1/2 by 11 inches or smaller;
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Documents must be paginated at the bottom center of every page except the first page.
4. be paginated at the bottom center of each page except for the first page of the document;
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Letters, pleadings, motions, briefs, affidavits, and other documents must conform to the filing-format rule or they will not be filed.
A. Letters, pleadings, motions, briefs, affidavits and other documents shall conform to the provisions of this rule; if not, the document shall not be filed.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
A document signed by an attorney must state that attorney’s State Bar Identification Number.
7. if signed by an attorney, state the attorney’s State Bar Identification Number.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Documents must receive a standard two-hole punch at the head, with holes 2¾ inches apart center to center and at least 9/32 inch in diameter.
8. be hole-punched at the head of the document with a standard two-hole punch, for efficient maintenance and preparation of the court record; the holes shall be set apart 2 3/4 inches center to center and have a diameter of no less than 9/32 inch;
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
All motions must comply with the format requirements of Rule 1.10.
B. All motions shall comply with the format requirements of Rule 1.10.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Unless the rules or the court specify otherwise, a party filing a document must supply the signed original and three copies.
Whenever these rules call for the filing of a document with the court, the party making the filing shall supply the signed original and 3 copies, unless otherwise specified in these rules or ordered or directed by the court.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
A reconciliation-suspension stipulation must be presented with five copies and postage-prepaid return envelopes.
Stipulations for suspension of proceedings to effect reconciliation, together with five copies and return envelopes with postage affixed, shall be presented for approval to the judge to whom the case is assigned.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The original state-issued Certificate of Divorce or Annulment must be completed in black ink, and no information may be erased, crossed out, or covered with correcting fluid or tape.
4. The original, state-issued Certificate of Divorce or Annulment form prescribed by the State of Wisconsin Vital Records Section (the state-issued form is available in Courthouse Room 411) completed in black ink. No information on the form shall be erased or crossed out or covered with correcting fluid or tape.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
A discovery motion must be made in writing and filed in person by the defendant or the defendant's attorney within 30 days after initial appearance.
2. A motion for discovery shall be made in writing and filed in person by the defendant or by an attorney with the court within thirty (30) days of initial appearance.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The affidavit-of-mailing form must not be modified, although additional materials may be submitted with it.
This form shall not be modified. It may be supplemented with additional materials.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Important
The required Eviction Diversion Initiative Information Sheet attached to the summons and complaint must be printed on yellow paper.
IT IS HEREBY DIRECTED that, until further notice, in all residential eviction actions filed after the effective date of this directive, the plaintiff shall attach to the summons and complaint served upon the defendant(s) the following form printed on yellow paper: 1. Eviction Diversion Initiative Information Sheet
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Important
An original document for filing must not be stapled or otherwise bound except by an easily removable method, while copies may be bound as the filer decides.
The original document for filing shall not be stapled or otherwise bound, except by an easily removable method, such as a paper clip or a binder clip, in order to facilitate scanning into the CCAP Case Management application. Copies may be stapled or otherwise bound as the filer decides.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Important
References to published Wisconsin appellate-court decisions must include the Callaghan reporter citation, Wis. 2d.
5. when referring to published decisions of Wisconsin appellate courts, include the Callaghan reporter citation (Wis. 2d);
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Important
The signer’s email address must be prominently stated unless the signer has no email address.
6. prominently state the electronic mail address of the person signing the document, unless the person does not have an electronic mail address;
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Important
Postconviction motions and briefs must use at least 12-point type in the body and at least 10-point type for quoted footnotes.
All submissions (motions and briefs) must use a minimum of at least 12-point font size in the body and at least a 10-point font size for quotes footnotes.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Important
The Affidavit Regarding Fees (Watts Reviews) is available only as a self-copying paper form from the Probate Office.
Affidavit Regarding Fees (Watts Reviews) Available only as self-copying paper form in Probate Office (Courthouse Rm. 207)
Paper
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Important
The Affidavit Regarding Fees and Expenses Due from Milwaukee County is available only as a self-copying paper form from the Probate Office.
Affidavit Regarding Fees and Expenses Due from Milwaukee County Available only as self-copying paper form in Probate Office (Courthouse Rm. 207)
Paper
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
IT IS HEREBY DIRECTED that, until further notice, in all residential eviction actions filed after the effective date of this directive, the plaintiff shall attach to the summons and complaint served upon the defendant(s) the following form printed on yellow paper:
Summary: Effective June 15, 2023, and until further notice, the Eviction Diversion Initiative Information Sheet attached to served summonses and complaints in post-effective-date residential eviction actions must be printed on yellow paper.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
IT IS HEREBY DIRECTED that, until further notice, in all residential eviction actions filed after the effective date of this directive, the plaintiff shall attach to the summons and complaint served upon the defendant(s) the following form printed on yellow paper:
Summary: The required Eviction Diversion Initiative Information Sheet must be printed on yellow paper.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
IT IS HEREBY DIRECTED that, until further notice, in all residential eviction actions filed after the effective date of this directive, the plaintiff shall attach to the summons and complaint served upon the defendant(s) the following form printed on white paper; the yellow colored paper is no longer required.
Summary: The required residential-eviction-diversion form must be printed on white paper; yellow paper is no longer accepted.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
All submissions (motion and briefs) must use at least a 12-point font size in the body and at least a 10-point font size for block quotations and footnotes and must have at least a one inch margin on all sides.
Summary: All postconviction motions and briefs must use at least 12-point type in the body, at least 10-point type for block quotations and footnotes, and margins of at least one inch on every side.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
3. be double-spaced;
Summary: All documents submitted for filing must be double-spaced.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
After you have been sworn by a Notary Public, sign and print your name and date the document in front of the Notary Public.
Summary: After being sworn, the affiant must sign, print their name, and date the affidavit in the notary's presence.
Document Filing Requirements118 rules
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The GF-302 Consent to Adult Adoption must be completed, signed by the petitioner, the petitioner's spouse if any, and the person being adopted, and notarized.
GF-302 - Consent to Adult Adoption – filled out and signed by petitioner, that person’s spouse, if any (even if the spouse is not also seeking to adopt or is the biological parent), and the person seeking to be adopted. Must be notarized.
Document Type
Adult Adoption Consent
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The GF-300 Adult Adoption Petition must be completed, signed by the petitioner, and notarized.
GF-300 Petition for Adult Adoption – filled out and signed by the adult seeking to adopt another adult (“petitioner”). Must be notarized.
Document Type
Adult Adoption Petition
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
A name change in an adult adoption requires a separate name-change petition filed before or with the adoption petition.
A name change is not granted in an adult adoption unless a separate name change petition is also filed prior to or in conjunction with the adoption petition.
Document Type
Adult Adoption Petition
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The Affidavit of Mailing must be notarized.
The Affidavit of Mailing needs to be notarized.
Document Type
Affidavit Of Mailing
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The affidavit of mailing form must not be modified, although additional materials may be submitted with it.
This form shall not be modified. It may be supplemented with additional materials.
Document Type
Affidavit Of Mailing
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The Chapter 128 trustee must file the prescribed Report of Trustee, Plan, and Proposed Order Approving Plan with the court.
D. To comply with the requirements stated in Wis. Stat. § 128.21, the trustee shall file with the court a Report of Trustee, Plan and Proposed Order Approving Plan in the form prescribed by the court (see Forms CV 8, CV 9 and CV 10 in the Appendix of Forms).
Document Type
Report Of Trustee Plan And Proposed Order Approving Plan
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
A corporate party or other organization must attend mediation with an individual who has full settlement authority unless the mediator allows otherwise.
Any corporate party or other organization shall appear, in addition to counsel of record, by an individual who shall have full authority to negotiate, unless the mediator permits otherwise.
Document Type
Mediation
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The pretrial report must state whether mediation is complete and, if not, whether settlement negotiations are ongoing.
State whether mediation is complete and, if not, whether settlement negotiations are ongoing.
Document Type
Pretrial Report
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The prevailing party's attorney must electronically file and serve a proposed written order within five days of the hearing or within the time ordered by the court when an oral ruling was not reduced to writing.
If an order is not reduced to writing at the time the court makes an oral ruling, then within five (5) days of the hearing, or within such time as the court orders, the attorney for the prevailing party shall eFile with the court and serve all parties a proposed written order.
Document Type
Proposed Written Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Unless a statute or court order provides otherwise, a filed document must include a signed certification of service identifying each party served and the date and method of service.
unless otherwise permitted by state statute or court order, include a certification signed by the party or an attorney for the party filing the document stating that a copy of the document has been served on all parties to the action, following the procedures set forth in Rules 1.12 and 1.13, identifying the name and address of each party served and stating the date and method of service; and
Document Type
Filed Document
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
A prisoner fee-waiver application must include a certified copy of the prisoner’s trust account for the preceding six months from the institution.
a certified copy of the prisoner’s trust account for the previous six months from the prisoner’s institution;
Document Type
Prisoner Fee Waiver Application
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
A pro hac vice permission motion must be filed and served under the five-day rule with an SCR-compliant motion, good-standing proof, notarized compliance statement, proposed order, and return envelope.
Permission to practice pro hac vice may be granted upon the filing and service under Rule 1.21 (the five-day rule) of: 1. a motion that complies with SCR 10.03(4) signed by an active member of the state bar of Wisconsin; 2. an affidavit of counsel or other proof that the attorney seeking permission is in good standing in the jurisdiction in which the attorney practices; 3. a signed, notarized statement of the attorney seeking permission that the attorney will comply with these local rules; 4. a proposed order granting permission; and 5. a self-addressed, stamped envelope for return of the signed order.
Document Type
Pro Hac Vice Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
If compliance with the informal-resolution requirement cannot occur before filing, the attorney must explain why in the motion certification, continue diligently attempting to resolve the dispute before the hearing, and file a compliant sworn certification at the hearing.
C. This rule does not apply when compliance cannot be had before the filing of a motion, as long as the attorney (i) states in the certification accompanying the motion the reasons why compliance cannot be had, (ii) continues to make a diligent attempt to resolve the differences between the parties prior to the hearing on the motion, and (iii), at the time of the hearing on the motion, files a written certification under oath with the court that complies with paragraph B.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Unless the court orders otherwise, a party must contact the assigned branch's deputy court clerk in person or by telephone and request a hearing date before filing a motion that requires a hearing; a motion without a hearing date may not be heard.
A. Unless otherwise ordered by the court, a party, before filing a motion that requires a hearing, shall contact the deputy court clerk of the branch to which the case is assigned in person or by telephone and request a hearing date. A motion filed without a hearing date may not be heard.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
When the court invites a proposed written order and it is not stipulated in writing, the proposed order must be filed, served on all parties with a notice letter, and held by the court for five business days after receipt.
A. If the court invites the submission of a proposed written order, and unless the proposed order is stipulated in writing, the proposed order shall be: 1. filed with the court, 2. served upon all parties (following the procedures set forth in Rules 1.12 and 1.13) under cover of a letter giving notice of the provisions of this rule, and 3. held by the court for 5 business days after it is received.
Document Type
Proposed Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
To request a subpoena in a civil case venued outside Wisconsin, a party must obtain the certified foreign-court authorization, file an original and two copies of the petition, use the underlying case caption with the court-issued case number, and attach the reciprocal statutes and certified authorization.
A party to a civil case venued in a court outside Wisconsin (“the underlying case”) may procure a subpoena for the attendance of a witness at a deposition and, if applicable, the production of documents or other things for inspection by compliance with Wis. Stat. §§ 887.24-887.26 completing the following requirements: 1. Obtain a certified copy of a certificate, commission, letters rogatory or other order of the court in the underlying case authorizing the issuance of a subpoena by this court. 2. File an original plus two copies of a petition requesting issuance of a subpoena. a. The caption of the petition should be the same as the caption of the underlying case, except that the case number on the petition will be issued by the Clerk of this Court. b. The petition shall be accompanied by: 1. a copy of the reciprocal statute(s) governing the underlying case, in compliance with Wis. Stat. §§ 887.24 and 887.25(3); 2. the certified copy of the certificate, commission, letters rogatory or other order to which paragraph 1 refers;
Document Type
Subpoena Petition
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Before the scheduling conference, each party must submit a court-prescribed form describing the case’s factual background and issues.
B. Before the scheduling conference, the parties shall submit a written description of the factual background and issues presented by the case on a form prescribed by the court.
Document Type
Scheduling Conference Submission
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
A summary judgment support brief must plainly and succinctly state the material undisputed facts supporting judgment with specific record references.
Briefs in support shall state plainly and succinctly the material undisputed facts which support judgment, together with specific references to the record.
Document Type
Summary Judgment Support Brief
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
In tort default judgment motions subject to Wis. Stat. § 802.02(1m), damages must be itemized and supported by documentary evidence.
In tort actions subject to Wis. Stat. § 802.02(1m), the motion for default judgment shall itemize the damages and shall be supported by documentary evidence of the damages sought.
Document Type
Default Judgment Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
An objection or cross-petition in an informally administered estate must be accompanied by a demand for formal proceedings.
Any objection or cross-petition filed in an estate being administered informally shall be accompanied by a demand for formal proceedings.
Document Type
Objection Or Cross Petition
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Nonfinal orders, certificates, and judgments must be submitted for signature within 30 days after the hearing date, and the prevailing party must prepare and file the proposed order embodying the ruling.
All orders, certificates, and judgments, other than final judgments, shall be submitted to the judge or circuit court commissioner for signature not later than 30 days after the date on which the subject of the order is heard or was to be heard by the court. A proposed order embodying a ruling by the court shall be prepared and filed by the prevailing party.
Document Type
Proposed Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The completed original summons must be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court, and an authenticated copy must be served on the defendant.
B. After the summons form is completed, the original shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. An authenticated copy of the original shall be served on the defendant.
Document Type
Summons
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
The Clerk will not accept a summons for filing unless its pertinent portions are complete and the summons is verified.
C. The Clerk of Courts shall not accept the summons for filing unless 1.. the pertinent portions of the form appear complete, and 2.. the summons is verified.
Document Type
Summons
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
A felony-division-prescribed Pretrial Scheduling Order must be completed and filed in every case scheduled for trial, whether jury or court trial.
In any case scheduled for trial, whether to a jury or to the court, a Pretrial Scheduling Order, in a form prescribed by the felony division, shall be completed and filed.
Document Type
Pretrial Scheduling Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
A request to seal identifying information in a child-custody proceeding must include Supreme Court Form GF-177 or equivalent information and proof of service under Rule 1.13.
If a party to a child custody proceeding requests, pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 822.29(5), that required identifying information be sealed, the party shall prepare and submit Supreme Court Form GF-177, or provide equivalent information, together with proof of service pursuant to Rule 1.13.
Document Type
Request To Seal Identifying Information
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
An attorney generally must file a notice of appearance before appearing for a party, but the court may permit an exception; an attorney's signature on an initial petition is deemed a notice of appearance.
No attorney shall appear in court on behalf of a party without filing a notice of appearance, except with permission of the court. The signature of an attorney for a petitioner upon the initial pleading shall be deemed a notice of appearance.
Document Type
Notice Of Appearance
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
After filing divorce commencement papers, the petitioner must immediately obtain an administrative-dismissal deadline and, when applicable, an order requiring parent-education attendance from the Family Court Commissioner.
Upon filing the papers necessary to commence an action for divorce, the petitioner shall proceed immediately to the office of the Family Court Commissioner to obtain a deadline for administrative dismissal, and, where applicable, an order requiring attendance at parent education.
Document Type
Divorce Commencement Papers
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Divorce petitions and responsive pleadings generally must be accompanied by Supreme Court Form GF-150, except when there are no minor children born to or adopted by either spouse during the marriage.
All divorce petitions and responsive pleadings, except in cases in which, at the time of the filing of the action, there are no minor children born to or adopted by either spouse during the marriage, shall be accompanied by a Supreme Court Form GF-150 Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act
Document Type
Divorce Petitions And Responsive Pleadings
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026Mandatory
Temporary-order requests must be presented as a proposed order to show cause or a motion.
A. All requests for temporary orders under Wis. Stat. § 767.225 shall be presented to the court in the form of a proposed order to show cause or a motion.
Document Type
Temporary Order Request
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
Attorneys must electronically file covered Children's Division petitions, while self-represented parties may file them electronically or in paper at the Clerk's Office.
Petitions filed by, on behalf of, against, or in the interest of a child, and authorized in Wis. Stat. Chapter 48, 938, or authorized in Wis. Stat. Chapter 54, 767, as indicated by Wis. Stat. §801.18(3)(a), shall be eFiled by attorneys or eFiled or paper filed by non-legal party/pro se litigant filers in the office of the Clerk of Circuit Court Children's Division ("Clerk's Office").
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 7 | 6.4 ASSIGNMENT OF CASES
Statutorily noticed petitions, motions, and requests may be filed electronically or on paper, with the filer providing names and addresses for notice.
All petitions, motions, or requests which by statute require the Clerk's Office to give notice to an interested party shall be eFiled or paper filed with the Clerk's Office (if a non-legal party/pro se litigant filer opts to not eFile), which will designate a hearing date. The party or entity filing the petition, motion, or request shall provide the Clerk's Office with the names and addresses of all persons to whom notice must be given. The Clerk's Office shall provide notice to such persons at the addresses provided by the party, as well as to any possible alternative addresses.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 9 | 6.6 FILING OF PAPERS
All attorneys must file papers through electronic filing.
All attorneys shall file papers via e-Filing pursuant to Wis. Stat. §801.18.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 9 | 6.6 FILING OF PAPERS
Other petitions, motions, and requests may be filed electronically or on paper in the assigned branch, with an alternative Clerk's Office filing option for pro se litigants when the branch is unavailable.
All other petitions, motions, or requests shall be eFiled or filed (if a non-legal party/pro se litigant filer opts to not eFile), in the branch to which the case is assigned, which will designate a hearing date. If the assigned branch is unavailable to accept the filing, the non-legal party/pro se litigant filer may file in the Clerk's Office, which will designate a hearing date.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 9 | 6.6 FILING OF PAPERS
Electronically stored information cannot be filed instead of a hard copy unless the court specifically permits it.
Electronically stored information may not be filed in lieu of hard copy unless specifically permitted by the court.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 16 | 1.14 Filing of Documents by Facsimile and Electronic Mail Prohibited
Attorneys must eFile covered child-related petitions in the Clerk’s Office; non-legal party or pro se litigants may eFile or paper file them.
Petitions filed by, on behalf of, against, or in the interest of a child, and authorized in Wis. Stat. Chapter 48, 938, or authorized in Wis. Stat. Chapter 54, 767, as indicated by Wis. Stat. §801.18(3)(a), shall be eFiled by attorneys or eFiled or paper filed by non-legal party/pro se litigant filers in the office of the Clerk of Circuit Court Children’s Division (“Clerk’s Office”).
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 72 | 6.4 Assignment of Cases
Petitions, motions, and requests requiring statutory notice may be filed electronically or, for a non-legal party or pro se litigant that opts out of electronic filing, filed in paper form with the Clerk’s Office.
All petitions, motions, or requests which by statute require the Clerk’s Office to give notice to an interested party shall be eFiled or paper filed with the Clerk’s Office (if a non-legal party/pro se litigant filer opts to not eFile), which will designate a hearing date.
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Page 74 | 6.6 FILING OF PAPERS
Attorneys must file papers electronically.
All attorneys shall file papers via e-Filing pursuant to Wis. Stat. §801.18.
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Page 74 | 6.6 FILING OF PAPERS
Attorneys must electronically file petitions, motions, and requests before the hearing, while pro se filers may file in court during or immediately before the hearing if all parties are present and served in court.
Any petition, motion or request may be filed by a non-legal party/pro se litigant filer in court during or immediately before a hearing, provided that all parties are present and are served in court. All attorneys must eFile prior to the hearing.
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Page 75 | Part 6
Postconviction motions other than petitions for writs of certiorari must be filed with the appellate section of the criminal division of the Clerk of Court in Room 117 of the Safety Building.
All motions, except petitions for writs of certiorari, shall be filed with the appellate section of the criminal division of the Clerk of Court (Room 117, Safety Building).
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 3 | 4.17 POSTCONVICTION MOTIONS
A pro se litigant may file certain papers in court during or immediately before a hearing when all parties are present and served, but attorneys must e-file before the hearing.
Any petition, motion or request may be filed by a non-legal party/pro se litigant filer in court during or immediately before a hearing, provided that all parties are present and are served in court. All attorneys must eFile prior to the hearing.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 9 | 6.6 FILING OF PAPERS
The court does not accept documents for filing by fax or email, except qualifying correspondence with the court under Rule 1.15.
The court does not accept for filing any document submitted by facsimile transmission or by electronic mail, except for correspondence with the court permitted under Rule 1.15 (correspondence with the court).
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 16 | 1.14 Filing of Documents by Facsimile and Electronic Mail Prohibited
Discovery materials may not be filed unless a statute permits filing, they are offered in evidence or in support of a motion, or the court otherwise permits filing.
Discovery documents shall not be filed unless permitted by statute, offered in evidence, offered in support of a motion, or otherwise permitted by the court.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 16 | 1.11 Discovery Documents Shall Not be Filed
Other petitions, motions, and requests may be filed electronically or, for a non-legal party or pro se litigant that opts out of electronic filing, filed in the assigned branch.
All other petitions, motions, or requests shall be eFiled or filed (if a non-legal party/pro se litigant filer opts to not eFile), in the branch to which the case is assigned, which will designate a hearing date.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 74 | 6.6 FILING OF PAPERS
A discovery motion must be filed in person by the defendant or the defendant's attorney.
2. A motion for discovery shall be made in writing and filed in person by the defendant or by an attorney with the court within thirty (30) days of initial appearance.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 79 | 828. MOTION PRACTICE
Pleadings and other court papers must be filed at the court office at 951 North James Lovell Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53233.
The filing of pleadings and other papers with the court shall be made by filing them at the office of the court at 951 North James Lovell Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53233.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 81 | 843. FILING PAPERS
The pro se tenant must file the completed eviction sealing forms in Room 409 of the courthouse.
File eviction sealing forms in Room 409 of the courthouse
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 3 | Steps to complete this packet
The pro se filer must bring all completed sealing forms and the applicable mailing evidence to Room 409.
Bring all completed forms and the Affidavit of Mailing or certified mail receipt if you served by certified mail to Room 409 of the courthouse.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 5 | Step 4: File the eviction sealing forms
If the assigned branch cannot accept a filing, a non-legal party or pro se litigant may file in the Clerk’s Office.
If the assigned branch is unavailable to accept the filing, the non-legal party/pro se litigant filer may file in the Clerk’s Office, which will designate a hearing date.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 74 | 6.6 FILING OF PAPERS
Pleadings and other court papers may be filed by facsimile transmission to the court office.
The filings of pleadings and other court papers may be performed by facsimile transmission to the office of the court.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 81 | 843. FILING PAPERS
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
The Scheduling Conference Data Sheet must be filed one week before the scheduling conference.
# Scheduling Conference Data Sheet- to be Filed One Week Prior to Scheduling Conference
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Page 1 | Scheduling Conference Data Sheet
The Scheduling Conference Data Sheet must be filed one week before the scheduling conference.
Scheduling Conference Data Sheet- to be Filed One Week Prior to Scheduling Conference
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Page 1 | Scheduling Conference Data Sheet- to be Filed One Week Prior to Scheduling Conference
All dispositive motions governed by Local Rules 3.14 and 3.15 must be filed by the stated scheduling deadline.
On or before _________________________, all dispositive motions governed by Local Rules 3.14 and 3.15 shall be filed.
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Page 1 | CIVIL DIVISION SCHEDULING ORDER
The deadlines in the scheduling order may not be extended without court consent.
The deadlines set forth in this order may not be extended without the consent of the court.
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Page 2 | CIVIL DIVISION SCHEDULING ORDER
A proposed written order for an unwritten oral ruling must be e-filed and served within five days of the hearing unless the court orders a different time.
If an order is not reduced to writing at the time the court makes an oral ruling, then within five (5) days of the hearing, or within such time as the court orders, the attorney for the prevailing party shall eFile with the court and serve all parties a proposed written order.
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Page 9 | 6.8 PROPOSED ORDERS
A party objecting to the form or substance of a proposed order must file a written objection and a consistent counter-order on or before the fifth business day after the court receives the order; the same filing, service, and holding procedures apply to objections to the counter-order.
B. On or before the fifth business day after the order is received by the court, any party that objects to the form of the proposed order or any failure of the proposed order to express the court’s intended or suggested order shall file a written objection accompanied by a proposed order consistent with the objection. The objection and counter-order shall be filed, served and held following the procedures in paragraph A. The provisions of this paragraph apply to objections to the counter-order.
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Page 20 | 1.21 Proposed Orders; the Five-Day Rule
Papers opposing the covered motions must be filed no later than 7 calendar days before the hearing, including weekends and holidays.
B. All papers filed in opposition to such motions shall be filed no later than 7 calendar days (including Saturdays, Sundays and holidays) before the hearing date.
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Page 25 | 3.11 Non-dispositive Motions
An earnings garnishment notice must be filed with the Clerk’s office no later than 5 business days after the garnishee is served.
B. The Clerk’s office may issue earnings Garnishment forms upon payment of the appropriate fee and prior to the filing of the earnings garnishment notice provided that the earnings garnishment notice is filed with the Clerk’s office no later than 5 business days after the date the garnishee is served.
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Page 25 | 3.7 Garnishment
Nonfinal orders, certificates, and judgments must be submitted for signature no later than 30 days after the date the subject was heard or was to be heard.
All orders, certificates, and judgments, other than final judgments, shall be submitted to the judge or circuit court commissioner for signature not later than 30 days after the date on which the subject of the order is heard or was to be heard by the court.
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Page 34 | 3.57 Proposed Orders (Thirty Day Rule)
Attorneys must promptly report a settlement or dismissal and file the stipulation and order no later than 30 days after the scheduled hearing date.
Attorneys shall promptly notify the deputy clerk of the assigned court or the acting circuit court commissioner of a settlement or dismissal of a contest and shall file a stipulation and order not later than 30 days after the scheduled hearing date.
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Page 34 | 3.57 Proposed Orders (Thirty Day Rule)
Bail motions must be filed in writing at least 48 hours before the scheduled hearing unless the parties agree to shorten the notice period.
Bail motions shall be served and filed in writing at least 48 hours in advance of the scheduled hearing, unless the parties agree to shorten this notice period.
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Page 48 | 4.23 Preliminary Hearing Court Rules
If items C.8 through C.10 are not submitted before or at the final hearing, they must be submitted for court approval and served on all parties, including the Department of Child Support Enforcement, no later than 30 days after the hearing.
If the court conducts the final hearing without a party submitting the items identified in paragraphs C.8 through C.10 in advance or at the time of the final hearing, they shall be submitted for the court’s approval, and served on all parties to the action, including the Department of Child Support Enforcement, no later than 30 days after the hearing.
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Page 60 | 5.20
The required trial-commencement documents must be filed no later than the commencement of trial.
To insure an efficient closure of the proceedings upon the conclusion of a trial, all parties at trial shall file the following at or before the commencement of the trial
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Page 63 | 5.25 Documents to be Filed at the Commencement of Trial
When the disputed issue involves spousal maintenance, property division, or child support, the opposing party must file a compliant current financial disclosure statement at or before the motion hearing.
E. To the extent the issue in dispute involves spousal maintenance, property division or child support, the party opposing the motion shall file, at or before the hearing on the motion, a current financial disclosure statement that complies with the requirements of Rule 5.12.D.1.
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Page 67 | 5.31
A request to extend child support beyond age 18 for a child still attending high school must be submitted in writing to the Department of Child Support Enforcement before the child’s 18th birthday and include specified school-letterhead documentation.
A request to extend child support beyond the child’s 18th birthday because the child is still attending high school shall be submitted in writing to the Department of Child Support Enforcement before the child’s 18th birthday. The request shall be accompanied by a document on school letterhead stating (1) that the child is enrolled in high school and (2) the date on which the child is expected to graduate.
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Page 68 | 5.34
Facsimile filings are deemed filed upon transmission, but one completed after 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday or during a weekend or holiday is deemed filed the next business day.
Papers filed by facsimile transmission will be considered filed when transmitted except papers filed by facsimile transmission completed after 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday or during weekends and holidays shall be considered filed the next business day.
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Page 81 | 843. FILING PAPERS
A plaintiff objecting to a motion to seal or redact an eviction record must file the attached response with the court no later than 15 days after receiving the motion.
For Plaintiff: If you object to this motion to seal or redact, you must file the attached Plaintiff Response to Motion to Seal or Redact Eviction Record with the court no later than 15 days after receiving the motion.
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Page 7 | Declaration in Support to Seal or Redact Eviction Record
An objecting plaintiff must file the attached response with the court no later than 15 days after receiving the motion; otherwise, the court may proceed without the plaintiff and grant the request.
For Plaintiff: If you object to this motion to seal or redact, you must file the attached Plaintiff Response to Motion to Seal or Redact Eviction Record with the court no later than 15 days after receiving the motion. If you do not, the court may proceed without you and grant the request,
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Page 12 | How to Ask to Seal Your Eviction Record without a Hearing
The Civil Division Scheduling Order must specify whether the parties agree to use the rule's briefing deadlines instead of those in Wis. Stat. § 802.08(2).
The Civil Division Scheduling Order shall designate whether the parties agree to comply with the briefing deadlines set forth in this rule in place of the briefing deadlines set forth in Wis. Stat. § 802.08(2).
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Page 27 | 3.15 Summary Judgment Motions
A plaintiff objecting to a motion to seal or redact an eviction record must file the attached response within 15 days after receiving the motion.
For Plaintiff: If you object to this motion to seal or redact, you must file the attached Plaintiff Response to Motion to Seal or Redact Eviction Record with the court no later than 15 days after receiving the motion.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 5 | Motion to Seal or Redact Eviction Record
The court will not act on an incomplete Chapter 128 petition, and the case will be dismissed without further notice and without prejudice if the requirements remain unmet for more than 30 days after filing.
6. If the requirements of this rule are not met, the court will not act on the petition. If more than 30 days passes after filing without these requirements being met, the case shall be dismissed without further notice and without prejudice.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 2 | 3.30 Chapter 128 Proceedings for Amortization of Debts
The parties must complete mediation by the stated scheduling deadline.
On or before _________________________, the parties shall complete mediation.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | CIVIL DIVISION SCHEDULING ORDER
Non-dispositive motions and supporting papers, subject to the listed exceptions, must be filed at least 15 days before the hearing.
A. Except for motions to dismiss, for judgment on the pleadings and for summary judgment or partial summary judgment (see Rules 3.14 and 3.15) and motions for temporary restraining orders (see Rule 3.13), all motions and supporting papers shall be filed not less than 15 days before the hearing date.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 25 | 3.11 Non-dispositive Motions
Briefs or other response papers must be filed at least 25 days before the hearing.
B. Briefs or other papers in response to such motions shall be filed not less than 25 days before the hearing date.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 26 | 3.14 Motions to Dismiss or for Judgment on the Pleadings
Reply briefs or other supporting papers must be filed at least 15 days before the hearing.
C. Reply briefs or other papers in support of such motions shall be filed not less than 15 days before the hearing date.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 26 | 3.14 Motions to Dismiss or for Judgment on the Pleadings
A motion to dismiss or for judgment on the pleadings must generally be filed at least 45 days before the hearing, subject to the stated debt-default exception in paragraph D.
A. Motions to dismiss or for judgment on the pleadings shall be filed not less than 45 days before the hearing date, except as provided in paragraph D.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 26 | 3.14 Motions to Dismiss or for Judgment on the Pleadings
A summary judgment motion must be filed at least 45 days before the hearing date.
Motions for summary judgment shall be filed not less than 45 days before the hearing date.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 27 | 3.15 Summary Judgment Motions
Reply briefs or papers supporting summary judgment must be filed at least 15 days before the hearing date.
Reply briefs or other papers in support of such motions shall be filed not less than 15 days before the hearing date.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 27 | 3.15 Summary Judgment Motions
Response briefs or papers opposing summary judgment must be filed at least 25 days before the hearing date.
Briefs or other papers in response to such motions shall be filed not less than 25 days before the hearing date.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 27 | 3.15 Summary Judgment Motions
A request for review of a Family Court Commissioner’s denial of a Chapter 813 temporary restraining order or injunction hearing must be made as soon as possible and no later than 10 days after the decision, in writing or in person, to the deputy court clerk assigned to the daytime duty judge.
The request for review may be made in writing or in person and shall be filed with or made to the deputy court clerk assigned to the daytime duty judge. The request shall be made as soon as possible but no later than 10 days after the date of the decision of which review is sought.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 70 | 5.38 Review of Decisions of the Family Court Commissioner in Chapter 813 Actions Concerning Harassment or Domestic Abuse
A discovery motion must be filed within 30 days after the defendant's initial appearance.
2. A motion for discovery shall be made in writing and filed in person by the defendant or by an attorney with the court within thirty (30) days of initial appearance.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 79 | 828. MOTION PRACTICE
The five-day rule for proposed orders does not apply to temporary guardianship, pick-up, temporary physical custody, fully written agreed, or specified Supreme Court-form guardianship or termination orders.
Local Rule 1.21 (the "five-day rule") applies to all such proposed orders, except temporary guardianship orders, pick-up orders, temporary physical custody orders, orders agreed to in writing by all parties, and orders for guardianship or termination of parental rights submitted on Supreme Court forms without any addenda.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 9 | 6.8 PROPOSED ORDERS
Motion hearings generally must be scheduled on Monday mornings, subject to Rule 1.19, contrary law, or the court’s discretion.
Subject to the provisions of Rule 1.19 (obtaining hearing dates), motion hearings shall be scheduled on Monday mornings, except as otherwise provided by law or scheduled at the discretion of the court.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 25 | 3.10 Hearing Dates
A request for review of a Family Court Commissioner decision must be made by motion and filed in the assigned case branch no later than 15 business days after the event identified in the source text.
A. Except as provided in Rule 5.38 (review of decisions of the Family Court Commissioner in Chapter 813 Actions), any order, ruling or decision of the Family Court Commissioner is subject to de novo review pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 757.69(8) by the judge to whom the case is assigned, at the request of any party to the action, including the guardian ad litem. B. A request for review shall by made by motion. The motion shall be filed in the branch to which the case is assigned no later than 15 business days after the
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 66 | 5.31
The five-day rule for proposed orders does not apply to temporary guardianship orders, pick-up orders, temporary physical custody orders, orders agreed to in writing by all parties, or specified guardianship or termination-of-parental-rights orders submitted on Supreme Court forms without addenda.
Local Rule 1.21 (the “five-day rule”) applies to all such proposed orders, except temporary guardianship orders, pick-up orders, temporary physical custody orders, orders agreed to in writing by all parties, and orders for guardianship or termination of parental rights submitted on Supreme Court forms without any addenda.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 75 | 6.8 PROPOSED ORDERS
Service and Proof of Service Rules
If the landlord does not e-file, mail the forms to the landlord.
Step 3: Check if the landlord e-files. If they do not e-file, mail the forms to the landlord
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Page 2 | Step 3: Check if the landlord e-files. If they do not e-file, mail the forms to the landlord
If the landlord e-files, the landlord is served as soon as the documents are filed and does not need to be mailed a copy.
Check if the landlord e-files – if they e-file, they are served as soon as you file the documents. You do not need to mail them a copy.
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Page 2 | Step 3: Check if the landlord e-files. If they do not e-file, mail the forms to the landlord
If you do not see “Case initiated by electronic filing,” you must mail the landlord a copy of the motion.
If you do not see "Case initiated by electronic filing," you must mail a copy of the motion to the landlord so they know you filed the motion
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Page 3 | Step 3: Check if the landlord e-files. If they do not e-file, mail the forms to the landlord
A notice to vacate may be delivered to the tenant, a family member or occupant at least 14 years old, with a copy also mailed by regular mail to the tenant.
Delivery to someone at the premises - giving the notice to the tenants; giving a copy to a family member who is at least 14 years of age, and telling them it is an eviction, leaving a copy with an occupant over 14 years of age, and also mailing a copy by regular mail to the tenant.
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Page 1 | SERVING THE NOTICE
A notice to vacate may be securely posted on the entrance door if a copy is mailed by regular mail the same day.
Securely posting the notice on the entrance door and mailing the notice by regular mail the same day.
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Page 1 | SERVING THE NOTICE
When serving a notice to vacate by certified mail, add two days to the applicable notice period.
Service by Certified Mail - If you choose to mail by certified mail, add two (2) days to the time period.
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Page 1 | SERVING THE NOTICE
The person serving the summons and complaint must complete an affidavit of service and bring the original to court.
Once the Summons and Complaint has been served, the person who served it must fill out an Affidavit of Service form. Bring the original copy of the Affidavit of Service to court with you.
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Page 2 | SERVING THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT
After filing a civil case, the defendant must be personally served, and the plaintiff may use the Sheriff's Department or a private process server but may not serve the defendant personally or by mail.
Once you file, you must have the defendant personally served. If the defendant lives in Milwaukee County, you can use the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Department, located on the First Floor in Room 102 of the Safety Building. The Sheriff's Department charges $75.00 for three attempts. You may also hire a private process server. You may not serve the defendant yourself. You may not mail the papers.
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Page 1 | What happens after I file?
Each party must serve lay-witness information, expert-witness information, and an itemized damages statement by the dates set forth in the order.
On or before the dates set forth below, the parties shall serve, pursuant to Local Rule 1.13, (a) the names and addresses of lay witnesses and a brief summary of their anticipated testimony; (b) the name, address, resume and written report of each expert witness; and (c) an itemized statement of damages, including any claim of permanency:
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Page 1 | CIVIL DIVISION SCHEDULING ORDER
Unless another governing source provides otherwise, every document filed with the court must be served on all parties to the action.
Unless required otherwise by statute, these rules or court order, a copy of any document filed with the court shall be served upon all parties to the action.
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Page 16 | 1.13 Methods of Service of Motions, Briefs, Affidavits, Notices and Other Such Documents
Summonses, complaints, and landlord-tenant notices must be served using the method specified by the applicable state statute.
Service of summonses, complaints and landlord-tenant notices shall be accomplished by the method stated in the applicable state statute.
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Page 16 | 1.13 Methods of Service of Motions, Briefs, Affidavits, Notices and Other Such Documents
A document may not be filed until a copy has been served on every party that has appeared or is otherwise required to receive service, unless another governing source provides otherwise.
Unless otherwise required by statute, these rules or court order, no document shall be filed until a copy of the document is served upon all parties who have appeared or otherwise must be served.
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Page 16 | 1.12 Service of Papers Before Filing
For an attorney represented party whose attorney appears in the court record, service must be made on that attorney.
For parties represented by an attorney whose name appears in the court record, the copy shall be served on the attorney.
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Page 16 | 1.13 Methods of Service of Motions, Briefs, Affidavits, Notices and Other Such Documents
A default judgment motion based on publication must include a Form CV 4 affidavit or substantial equivalent on yellow paper, proof of publication, and proof of mailing the publication summons.
If the party against whom judgment is sought is served by publication, within or outside Wisconsin, the motion shall be supported by a Form CV 4 Affidavit of Reasonable Diligence, or its substantial equivalent, printed on yellow paper, and proof of publication and mailing of the publication summons.
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Page 28 | 3.16 Default Judgments
An objection or cross-petition must include proof of service on each appearing represented party through counsel, or directly on an unrepresented party.
Objections and cross-petitions shall be accompanied by proof that the objection has been served upon the attorney of record for each party who has appeared in the proceeding (for example, the petitioner, guardian, trustee, claimant or personal representative) or upon the party if not represented by an attorney.
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Page 33 | 3.55 Contested Proceedings
After obtaining a hearing date, the filing party must serve written notice on all interested parties by a Rule 1.13-authorized method and file the original notice and proof of service before the hearing.
Upon securing a date and time for a hearing in a contested proceeding, the party who filed the objection or cross-petition shall serve written notice of the scheduled proceeding upon all interested parties. Service may be accomplished by any method authorized under Rule 1.13 (methods of service). The original notice and proof of ===== PAGE 34 ===== service of the notice shall be filed before the scheduled hearing in the civil/probate branch to which the case is assigned.
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Page 33 | 3.55 Contested Proceedings
A defendant outside Milwaukee County may appear in person or by an attorney on the return date, or serve a written answer on the plaintiff's attorney or unrepresented plaintiff and file a copy by the return date.
B. A defendant who does not reside in Milwaukee County may 1.. appear in person or by an attorney on the return date specified in the summons, or 2.. on or before the return date, serve a written answer on the attorney who represents the plaintiff, or on the plaintiff if the plaintiff is not represented by an attorney. A copy of the answer shall be filed on or before the return date.
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Page 37 | 3.77 Answering the Small Claims Complaint
An affidavit of service of the summons must be filed on the return date.
E. An affidavit of service of the summons shall be filed on the return date.
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Page 37 | 3.76 Small Claims Summons
Bail motions must be served and filed in writing at least 48 hours before the scheduled hearing unless the parties agree to shorten the notice period.
Bail motions shall be served and filed in writing at least 48 hours in advance of the scheduled hearing, unless the parties agree to shorten this notice period.
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Page 48 | 4.23 Preliminary Hearing Court Rules
The Family Division exception to Rule 1.12 permits petitions under Wis. Stat. §§ 813.12, 813.122, and 813.125 to be filed without first serving the documents covered by Rule 1.12.
Rules 1.1 through 1.29 apply to proceedings in the Family Division except that Rule1.12 requiring service of certain documents before filing does not apply to petitions under Wis. Stat. §§ 813.12 (domestic abuse restraining orders and injunctions), 813.122 (child abuse restraining orders and injunctions)and 813.125 (harassment restraining orders and injunctions).
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Page 51 | 5.1 Exceptions to General Rules
The moving party must serve the responding party with the financial-disclosure form or substantial equivalent and instructions for completion and filing at the hearing.
2. The moving party shall serve on the responding party a copy of Supreme Court Form FA-4139 or its substantial equivalent, together with instructions to the responding party to complete the form, provide proof of income as in the preceding subparagraph, and file both at the hearing on the request for a temporary order.
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Page 55 | 5.12 Temporary Orders
Parties must serve all documents filed under this rule on the adverse party by a method allowed by Rule 1.13; a nonappearing party served by publication may receive them by mail at the summons mailing address.
F. All documents filed in compliance with this rule shall be served upon the adverse party by any of the means specified in Rule 1.13 (methods of service). A party who has been served by publication and has not appeared or participated in any proceeding may be served with such documents by mail at the address to which the publication summons was mailed.
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Page 60 | 5.20
The Order for Pretrial/Order to Appear, Request for Pretrial, and all attachments must be served on every party using a method specified in Rule 1.13.
The Order for Pretrial/Order to Appear shall be served upon all parties by one of the means specified in Rule 1.13 (methods of service), together with a Request for Pretrial (form 11 in the Appendix of Forms) and all attachments to it.
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Page 61 | 5.22 Contested Divorce Proceedings
Unless the executed Pretrial Order is served at the conference, the presenting party must serve it on all parties using a method specified in Rule 1.13.
Once the Pretrial Order is executed, and unless it is served on the parties at the pretrial conference, the party who presented the Pretrial Order shall serve it on all parties, by one of the means specified in Rule 1.13 (methods of service).
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Page 62 | 5.22 Contested Divorce Proceedings
Before serving a motion for review, the requesting party must obtain a hearing date, give notice of that date and time in the motion, and serve all applicable parties by a method authorized under Rule 1.13.
C. Before serving the motion, the party requesting review shall obtain a hearing date from the deputy clerk in the branch to which the case is assigned. The motion shall give notice of the date and time of the hearing on the motion and shall be served by any of the means specified in Rule 1.13 (methods of service). The motion shall be served on all parties, including, if applicable, the guardian ad litem and the Department of Child Support Enforcement.
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Page 67 | 5.31
Regular-mail service requires a copy of the paperwork, a completed Affidavit of Mailing, and filing the affidavit in Room 409.
Send them a copy of the paperwork by regular mail. Complete an Affidavit of Mailing and file it in Room 409 of the courthouse.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 5 | Step 3: Check if the landlord e-files. If they do not e-file, mail the forms to the landlord
The declarant states under oath that they placed copies of the checked motion and other listed document in an envelope.
UNDER OATH, I STATE: I placed in an envelope a copy of the following documents: ☐ Authenticated Copy of the Summons and Complaint ☑ Motion: NOTICE OF MOTION AND MOTION TO SEAL ☑ Other: PLAINTIFF'S RESPONSE TO MOTION TO SEAL OR REDACT EVICTION RECORD
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Page 10 | Affidavit of Mailing (Small Claims)
A motion to seal may be denied if the opposing party was not served or good cause is not demonstrated.
☐ 2. Motion to seal denied for failure to: ☐ Serve opposing party ☐ Demonstrate good cause ☐ Other: ____
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 14 | How to Ask to Seal Your Eviction Record without a Hearing
The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office may be requested through the Civil Process Division to attempt service of eviction papers, and a fee applies.
Request Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office via a Civil Process Division to attempt service of the evictions papers. There is a fee for this service.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 1 | SERVING THE NOTICE
Unless another governing source provides otherwise, service may be made personally, by mail, by facsimile, or by email, but facsimile and email service must be supplemented by mailing a copy the same day.
Unless otherwise required by statute, these rules or court order, copies may be served by personal delivery, by mail, or by facsimile or electronic mail transmission, provided that a copy of the document also is mailed on the same day as the facsimile or electronic mail transmission.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 16 | 1.13 Methods of Service of Motions, Briefs, Affidavits, Notices and Other Such Documents
The court will not consider an inmate’s funeral or wake attendance request unless the inmate completes and files the required form and serves a copy on the Sheriff.
The court will not consider a request to attend a funeral or wake by an inmate of the Criminal Justice Facility or at the House of Correction unless the inmate completes the form required by the Clerk of Court, files the form and serves a copy upon the Sheriff.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 46 | 4.19 Attendance of Inmates at Funerals and Wakes
If the court doubts that an adverse party was probably served with the motion, it may order service on that party under Wis. Stat. § 801.11.
If the court has reason to doubt that an adverse party probably was served with motion, the court may order the party to serve the adverse party pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 801.11.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 67 | 5.31
You must send them the paperwork by regular mail, complete and notarize an Affidavit of Mailing, and file it in Room 409 of the courthouse.
Send them a copy of the paperwork by regular mail. Complete an Affidavit of Mailing and file it in Room 409 of the courthouse. The Affidavit of Mailing needs to be notarized.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 3 | Step 3: Check if the landlord e-files. If they do not e-file, mail the forms to the landlord
The affidavit of mailing must be completed after the summons, complaint, or other document has been mailed.
After you have mailed the summons and complaint, or other document, you must complete the information to the right.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 8 | Affidavit of Mailing (Small Claims)
The summons and complaint must be served by a nonparty who is at least 18 years old and a Wisconsin resident.
The Summons and Complaint must be served by a third person, who is not a party to the action, who is at least 18 years of age and a resident of the State of Wisconsin.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 2 | SERVING THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT
The summons and complaint must be served at least five days before the court date, with weekends and holidays excluded from the count.
The Summons and Complaint must be served no less than 5 days before the court date; weekends and holidays do not count.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 2 | SERVING THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT
The Sheriff's Office must mail notice to the tenant.
The Sheriff’s Office will then mail the tenant a notice.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 3 | AFTER COURT
A copy of the scheduling order must be served with the summons and complaint when an additional party is named.
If any additional party is named, a copy of this Order shall be served with the summons and complaint.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | CIVIL DIVISION SCHEDULING ORDER
A copy of the postconviction motion must be served on the State before the motion is filed.
Before filing, a copy of the motion shall be served upon the State.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 3 | 4.17 POSTCONVICTION MOTIONS
When a pro se litigant files a petition, motion, or request in court during or immediately before a hearing, all parties must be present and served in court.
Any petition, motion or request may be filed by a non-legal party/pro se litigant filer in court during or immediately before a hearing, provided that all parties are present and are served in court.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 9 | 6.6 FILING OF PAPERS
A document served by facsimile or email must also be mailed on the same day.
provided that a copy of the document also is mailed on the same day as the facsimile or electronic mail transmission.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 16 | 1.13 Methods of Service of Motions, Briefs, Affidavits, Notices and Other Such Documents
A default judgment motion involving substitute service on a natural person in Wisconsin must include a Form CV 2 affidavit or substantial equivalent on blue paper.
If the party against whom judgment is sought is a natural person and is served by substitute service within the State of Wisconsin, the motion shall be supported by a Form CV 2 Affidavit of Substitute Service, or its substantial equivalent, printed on blue paper.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 28 | 3.16 Default Judgments
A default judgment motion involving personal service on a corporation or LLC in Wisconsin must include a Form CV 3 affidavit or substantial equivalent on green paper.
If the party against whom judgment is sought is a corporation or limited liability company and is served personally within the State of Wisconsin, the motion shall be supported by a Form CV 3 Affidavit of Personal Service on Corporation or Limited Liability Company, or its substantial equivalent, printed on green paper.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 28 | 3.16 Default Judgments
Filing Fees and Waivers
The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office fee may be paid by cash, credit card, money order, or cashier's check payable to the Sheriff's Office.
The fee is payable with cash, credit card, money order or cashier’s check made payable to the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 3 | AFTER COURT
Applications for waiver of costs and fees generally must be made in the Chief Judge’s office, except for harassment or domestic abuse restraining-order or injunction cases.
Except in cases in which a person seeks a harassment or domestic abuse restraining order or injunction (which cases are governed by paragraph C.), all applications for waiver of costs and fees under Wis. Stat. § 814.29 shall be made in the office of the Chief Judge.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 17 | 1.16 Waiver of Certain Costs and Fees
Fee-waiver applications in harassment or domestic abuse injunction or restraining-order cases must be submitted to the Family Court Commissioner through the Task Force on Family Violence office.
All applications for waiver of costs and fees in cases in which the petitioner seeks a harassment or domestic abuse injunction or restraining order shall be submitted to the Family Court Commissioner through the office of the Task Force on Family Violence.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 17 | 1.16 Waiver of Certain Costs and Fees
A $5.00 judgment filing fee must be paid by cashier’s or certified check or money order payable to the Clerk of Circuit Court, unless the Family Court Commissioner permits payment in cash at the final hearing.
11. A cashier’s or certified check or money order payable to the Clerk of Circuit Court for the judgment filing fee ($5.00), unless the office of the Family Court Commissioner grants permission to the parties to bring the funds in cash to the final hearing.
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Page 60 | 5.20
The $5.00 judgment filing fee must be paid by cashier’s check, certified check, or money order payable to the Clerk of Circuit Court.
A cashier’s or certified check or money order payable to the Clerk of Circuit Court for the judgment filing fee ($5.00).
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 64 | 5.26 Preparation of Judgment Document in Contested Divorces
The Milwaukee County Department of Child Support Enforcement is exempt from the filing fee for judgment-modification motions filed for parties receiving W-2, medical assistance, SSI, or food stamps.
No filing fee shall be charged to the Milwaukee County Department of Child Support Enforcement for filing judgment modification motions on behalf of a party receiving W-2, medical assistance, SSI or food stamps.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 66 | 5.28
A request to waive jury or appeal fees must be submitted in writing to the Chief Judge on a municipal-court form when the jury or appeal demand is filed.
All requests for waiver of jury fees or of appeal fees shall be made in writing to the Chief Judge, on a form available at the municipal court, at the time of filing the jury or appeal demand.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 80 | 831. WAIVER OF JURY FEES OR APPEAL FEES
A fee-waiver application must be completed, notarized, and accompanied by income or benefit verification and submitted to Room 609; an approved waiver remains valid for 30 days.
Here is the form you need to apply for a waiver of fees. Fill out the form, sign it in front of a Notary Public, and take it and proof of your eligibility (including proof of benefits currently being received, or the most recent month's worth of pay stubs/proof of income) to Room 609 of the Milwaukee County Courthouse for consideration. Once approved, this waiver of fees is good for 30 days.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 1 | Temporary Restraining Order or Injunction
An attorney seeking a courthouse security pass must apply in person for Chief Judge approval, bring personal identification and a $25.00 check payable to the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office, and be photographed during designated hours.
To obtain a courthouse security pass, the attorney shall file an application in person for approval by the Chief Judge accompanied by personal identification and a check in the amount of $25.00 made payable to the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office and be photographed by the Sheriff's Office during designated hours.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 2 | 1.28 Courthouse Security Passes
The Chief Judge cannot waive transcript charges or Clerk of Circuit Court photocopy charges.
The Chief Judge is not authorized to waive transcript charges or charges for photocopies made by the Clerk of Circuit Court.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 18 | 1.16 Waiver of Certain Costs and Fees
If no party pays the jury fee, all parties waive the right to a jury.
If no party pays the jury fee, the right to a jury is waived by all parties.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 25 | 3.9 Payment of Jury Fee
The Clerk may issue earnings garnishment forms upon payment of the appropriate fee, provided the notice is filed no later than 5 business days after service on the garnishee.
B. The Clerk’s office may issue earnings Garnishment forms upon payment of the appropriate fee and prior to the filing of the earnings garnishment notice provided that the earnings garnishment notice is filed with the Clerk’s office no later than 5 business days after the date the garnishee is served.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 25 | 3.7 Garnishment
Unless the court orders otherwise, the jury fee must be paid within 30 days after the scheduling order is issued.
Unless the court orders otherwise, the jury fee shall be paid within 30 days after the court issues the scheduling order pursuant to Rule 3.8.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 25 | 3.9 Payment of Jury Fee
The Probate Court charges a $10 fee to hold a copy of a will for safekeeping.
The Milwaukee County Register in Probate will hold a copy of your will for safekeeping. There is a $10 fee for this service.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 1 | Safekeeping of Wills
A mailed genealogy research request requires a prepaid $4 search fee and a self-addressed stamped envelope.
There is no cost to conduct a search on your own. However, if you mail us a request for a search, a $4 search fee must be pre-paid, and the request must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 1 | Genealogy Research
No filing fee is charged for a domestic abuse petition.
There is no filing fee for a domestic abuse petition.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 17 | 1.16 Waiver of Certain Costs and Fees
For a Wisconsin original birth certificate, the petitioner must bring a $20 check or money order payable to State of Wis. Vital Records; cash is not accepted.
A check or money order for $20 made payable to “State of Wis. Vital Records” (if original birth certificate is from Wisconsin). No cash.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | Adult Adoption — Steps
Eviction forms must be filed in Room 104 of the Milwaukee County Courthouse, and a court fee must be paid.
File the forms in Room 104 of the Milwaukee County Courthouse, 901 N. 9th Street to pay the court fee.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 2 | PREPARING FOR COURT
Starting a civil lawsuit requires payment of a case-dependent filing fee when the summons and complaint are filed in Room 104.
There is also a filing fee that must be paid, which varies by type of case. The fee is paid and the documents are filed in Room 104 of the courthouse.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | How do I start a civil case?
The jury fee must be paid by the scheduling deadline or the parties will be deemed to have waived their right to a jury.
On or before _________________________, the jury fee shall be paid or, pursuant to Local Rule 3.9, all parties shall be deemed to have waived their right to a jury.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | CIVIL DIVISION SCHEDULING ORDER
Required fees for an objection or cross-petition must be paid before or when the filing is made.
All required fees shall be paid before or at the time of filing.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 33 | 3.55 Contested Proceedings
Commencement of a small-claims action requires payment of the filing fee before the Clerk issues the approved summons form or payment seal.
An action shall be commenced by the issuance by the Clerk of Circuit Court, upon payment of the filing fee, of a summons form or payment seal for use on a summons form approved by the court.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 36 | 3.76 Issuance, Filing and Service of Small Claims Summons and Complaint
A fee applies when the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office is requested to attempt service of eviction papers.
There is a fee for this service.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | SERVING THE NOTICE
A jury-trial demand must be timely and proper and the fee must be paid before transfer by tab to a large-claims civil division branch, except eviction actions are transferred to the duty judge for expedited scheduling.
Upon a timely, proper demand for a jury trial under Wis. Stat. § 799.21 and upon payment of the fee, the case shall be transferred by tab to a civil division branch to which large claims civil actions are assigned, except that evictions actions shall be transferred to the duty judge for expedited scheduling.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 38 | 3.83 Jury Trial of Small Claims Cases
A certified copy of the adult adoption order may be obtained in Room 207 after the hearing for a $4 fee.
If you want a certified copy of the order, go to Room 207 following the hearing and pay $4 after the hearing.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | Adult Adoption — Steps
Copies of probate records cost $1 per page.
The cost to make copies of records is $1 per page.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | Genealogy Research
A certified copy of the adult adoption order is optional and costs $4.
$4 for certified copy of order for adoption (optional)
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | Adult Adoption — Fees
A $20 State of Wisconsin Vital Records filing fee applies when the original birth certificate is from Wisconsin.
$20 State of Wisconsin Vital Records Filing Fee (if original birth certificate is from Wisconsin)
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | Adult Adoption — Fees
A petitioner whose harassment or domestic abuse fee-waiver application is denied may request review by the Chief Judge.
If the application is denied, petitioner may request review by the Chief Judge.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 17 | 1.16 Waiver of Certain Costs and Fees
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
A motion to seal seeks removal of a tenant's name from Wisconsin public court records.
A motion to seal asks the court to remove a tenant's name from Wisconsin's public court records.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 3 | How to Ask to Seal Your Eviction Record without a Hearing
The sealing filing includes a notice and motion to seal or redact the eviction record, a supporting declaration, a response form, an order form, and either a certified-mail receipt or notarized Affidavit of Mailing.
Forms include: a. Notice of Motion and Motion to Seal or Redact Eviction Record b. Declaration in Support of Motion to Seal or Redact Eviction Record c. Plaintiff's Response to Motion to Seal or Redact Eviction Record d. Order on Motion to Seal or Redact Eviction Record e. Certified mail receipt or Affidavit of Mailing form SC-5130V (the Affidavit of Mailing needs to be notarized – this can be done in Room 104)
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 5 | Step 4: File the eviction sealing forms
The filing requests judicial redaction of the person's name from the eviction case record.
I am asking the court to redact my name from the eviction case record.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 5 | Motion to Seal or Redact Eviction Record
Fifteen days after filing for an e-filing landlord, or fifteen days after the mailing affidavit date for a non-e-filing landlord, a circuit court judge reviews the redaction request and any response and may grant it, deny it, or schedule a hearing.
Fifteen (15) days after the date of filing if the landlord is an e-filer, or fifteen (15) days after the date on the affidavit of mailing evidencing notice to the landlord if the landlord is not an e-filer, a circuit court judge will review the request, as well as any response, and determine whether it is appropriate to grant the request, deny the request, or schedule a hearing on the request.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | ADMINISTRATIVE SEAL/REDACTION PROCESS
A tenant may request redaction of the tenant's name by filing a written motion with a supporting declaration explaining the circumstances and reasons for the request, together with notice to the former landlord.
That a tenant may request that their name be redacted by written motion, accompanied by a declaration in support of their request to redact wherein they explain the circumstances relevant to, and the reason for, their request, with notice of such motion to their former landlord;
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | ADMINISTRATIVE SEAL/REDACTION PROCESS
A defendant seeking removal of their name from an eviction record must submit a sealing or redaction motion supported by an enclosed declaration identifying the declarant as the defendant.
1. I am asking the court to seal or redact my name from the court record. 2. I am making this request based on the following law and facts: - Please see enclosed Declaration in Support of Motion to Seal or Redact Eviction Record. - I am the defendant in this action.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 11 | How to Ask to Seal Your Eviction Record without a Hearing
A pro se tenant may request that the court redact the tenant's name from an eviction case record.
I am asking the court to redact my name from the eviction case record.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 7 | Declaration in Support to Seal or Redact Eviction Record
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
Before filing a motion to compel discovery or a motion seeking permission to serve excess interrogatories, the party must confer in person or by telephone and make a sincere attempt to resolve the issue; the motion must state the conference date and place and identify all participants.
3.22 Meeting and Conferring before Filing Discovery Motions A. Before a party may move to compel discovery, or for permission to serve interrogatories in excess of the limitation stated in Rule 3.20 (limitations on interrogatories), the party shall confer in person or by telephone with the party against whom relief is sought and make a sincere attempt to resolve the issue. B. No motion to compel or for permission to serve interrogatories in excess of the limitation stated in Rule 3.20 will be heard unless the motion demonstrates compliance with this rule, including a statement of the date and place of the conference and the names of all parties participating therein.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 29 | 3.22 Meeting and Conferring before Filing Discovery Motions
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Litigants may not select their own adjourned dates before appearing in court.
2. Litigants can no longer pick their own adjourned dates before coming to court.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | SMALL CLAIMS – Scheduling Future Adjourned Court Dates
Courtroom 400 personnel must schedule all future adjourned court dates.
1. All future adjourned court dates will be scheduled by courtroom 400 personnel.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | SMALL CLAIMS – Scheduling Future Adjourned Court Dates
Only the court may reschedule or cancel a scheduled proceeding, and the requesting person or party must give advance notice as soon as reasonably possible to all interested parties.
Scheduled proceedings may not be re-scheduled or canceled except by the court. The person or party requesting the rescheduling or cancellation shall provide notice in advance as soon as reasonably possible to all interested parties, including, without limitation, attorneys, Division of Milwaukee Child Protective Services (DMCPS) representatives, Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) human service workers and witnesses.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 9 | 6.9 RESCHEDULING
A Track I continuance request must be filed with the assigned deputy register in probate/acting circuit court commissioner, while a Track II request must be filed in the assigned civil/probate branch.
A request for a continuance in a contest assigned to Track I shall be filed with the assigned deputy register in probate/acting circuit court commissioner. B. A request for a continuance in a contest assigned to Track II shall be filed in the civil/probate branch to which the case is assigned.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 34 | 3.56 Continuances
Continuance requests are due within 10 days after service of the hearing notice; a later request requires a personal appearance and a showing of good cause, and counsel's agreement alone is insufficient.
Requests for continuance shall be filed within 10 days after service of notice of a scheduled proceeding. If a request for continuance is filed more than 10 days after service of notice of a scheduled proceeding, the request may be granted only upon a personal appearance before the judge or circuit court commissioner and a showing of good cause. Agreement of counsel shall not, of itself, be considered good cause for a continuance.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 34 | 3.56 Continuances
When all disputed issues in a contested proceeding are resolved by agreement, the parties may request an earlier court date after notifying all interested parties.
If all issues in dispute in a contested proceeding are resolved in advance by agreement, the parties may request, after notice to all interested parties, that the agreement be scheduled for the court's consideration at an earlier date.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 9 | 6.9 RESCHEDULING
Only a judge may grant an adjournment or postponement, and each must set a definite day and time.
Adjournment or postponement of cases may be granted only by the authority of the judge. Each adjournment or postponement of a case shall be to a day and time certain.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 78 | 822. ADJOURNMENTS
Courtroom personnel will attempt to accommodate requested adjourned dates when time slots are available.
3. Courtroom personnel will try to accommodate date requests based on time slot availability.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | SMALL CLAIMS – Scheduling Future Adjourned Court Dates
Courtroom personnel must adhere to the case-number caps for scheduled time slots.
4. Courtroom personnel will adhere to the case number caps for scheduled time slots.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | SMALL CLAIMS – Scheduling Future Adjourned Court Dates
Chambers Communication Rules
Fax communication with the court is prohibited unless the court specifically invites it, imposes conditions, and all parties simultaneously receive a copy.
Parties may not communicate with the court by facsimile transmission unless specifically invited by the court, on such terms as the court prescribes, and then only if all parties receive a copy of the transmission simultaneously with delivery of the transmission to the court.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 16 | 1.15 Correspondence with the Court by Facsimile and Electronic Mail
Email communication with the court is prohibited unless the court specifically invites it and prescribes conditions; the visible text is incomplete.
Parties may not communicate with the court by electronic mail unless specifically invited by the court, on such terms as the court prescribes, and then only
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 16 | 1.15 Correspondence with the Court by Facsimile and Electronic Mail
For emergency requests, parties must contact the duty judge first, then the Presiding Judge of the Children's Division, and then the other Children's Division judges in reverse Duty Judge schedule order beginning with the most recently assigned judge.
A party making an emergency request to the duty judge shall contact the duty judge first. If the duty judge is not available, the party shall contact the Presiding Judge of the Children’s Division. If the Presiding Judge is not available, the party shall contact the other judges assigned to the Children’s Division in reverse order on the Duty Judge schedule starting with the most recently assigned judge.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 76 | 6.10 DUTY JUDGE
An email address is provided for contact with the Milwaukee County Civil Court.
Email: cticivil-milwaukee@wicourts.gov
Checked against the court's document on Oct 5, 2026
Page 1 | Contact Us
A phone number is provided for contact with the Milwaukee County Civil Court.
Phone: (414) 278-4140
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | Contact Us
A fax number is provided for contact with the Milwaukee County Civil Court.
Fax: (414) 223-1260
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | Contact Us