Family law issues can affect nearly every aspect of your life, from your relationship with your children to your financial future. Whether you are considering divorce, establishing parental rights, modifying an existing court order, or preparing a marital property agreement, the Madison family law attorneys at Hawks Quindel provide practical legal guidance to help you protect what matters most.
No two families are alike, and no two family law cases follow the exact same path. Some clients need help negotiating an amicable resolution, while others require experienced courtroom advocacy to resolve contested issues involving custody, placement, child support, or property division.
Whatever brings you to our office, our attorneys will take the time to understand your goals, explain your legal options, and develop a strategy tailored to your family's needs.
From our Madison office, the Hawks Quindel team represents individuals and families throughout Dane County and surrounding communities in a wide range of family law matters. We understand that these cases involve deeply personal decisions, and we are committed to providing knowledgeable legal advice, responsive communication, and steady advocacy from beginning to end.
Why You Should Choose Hawks Quindel For Your Family Law Matter
Choosing the best family law attorney for your situation means choosing someone who will help guide you through some of your most significant life transitions. Whether you are ending a marriage, resolving custody issues, or negotiating an agreement that protects your future, you deserve an attorney who will listen carefully, communicate clearly, and advocate for your interests every step of the way.
For more than 60 years, the team at Hawks Quindel has represented individuals and families across Wisconsin. We understand that successful family law representation requires more than knowledge of statutes and court procedures. We bring practical problem-solving, careful preparation, and the ability to negotiate effectively while remaining fully prepared to litigate when necessary.
Our attorneys can work closely with you to develop realistic solutions that reflect both your immediate concerns and your long-term goals. Whether your case is resolved through settlement negotiations, mediation, or litigation, our priority is helping you reach an outcome that allows you to move forward with confidence.
Divorce Representation in Madison
Divorce is one of the most common reasons people seek family law representation, but every divorce presents its own legal and personal challenges. Some couples agree on most issues and simply need assistance preparing the necessary legal documents. Others face significant disagreements involving children, finances, or property that require negotiation or court intervention.
The divorce attorneys at Hawks Quindel represent clients in both contested and uncontested divorces involving matters such as:
- Division of marital property and debt.
- Child custody and physical placement.
- Child support.
- Spousal maintenance.
- Retirement accounts and pensions.
- Closely held businesses and professional practices.
Throughout the process, we help clients understand Wisconsin's divorce laws, evaluate settlement proposals, and make informed decisions that protect both their financial interests and their family relationships.
Child Custody and Physical Placement
For parents, decisions involving children are often the most important part of any family law case. Wisconsin courts determine legal custody and physical placement based on the child's best interests.
Depending on the family's circumstances, these decisions may address legal decision-making authority, parenting schedules, holiday placement, school issues, healthcare decisions, and numerous other matters affecting a child's daily life.
Whenever possible, parents are encouraged to develop parenting arrangements that promote stability and support the child's relationship with both parents. When agreements cannot be reached, our attorneys advocate for solutions that protect both the child's well-being and our client's parental rights.
We also assist parents seeking to modify existing custody or placement arrangements when circumstances change after a divorce or paternity judgment. Child-related matters may be modified after a final judgment has been entered under certain circumstances. We can review your situation and explain your unique rights.
Hear From Our Clients
“happy with our settlement”
Bill Parsons and Brook Tylka and the rest of the staff from Hawks Quindel were very helpful with our case. They kept me up to date on the progress of my claim from the very beginning. After our first conciliation, we felt very confident we had the right attorney to...
“a practice someone can trust”
Hawks and Quindel are an amazing law firm to deal with. It’s a scary time and everyone there puts you at rest that they have your best interest at heart. They never make you feel like you are bothering them and they kept me in the loop with answers before... “thoroughness, patience, and insight”
I can’t praise Aaron Halstead and Connor Clegg enough for their work on my legal matter. I especially appreciated their thoroughness, patience, and insight. They were always responsive to my questions. They helped me navigate a challenging workplace issue and obtain a good outcome. I would and do recommend them. “highly recommend seeking the services of this firm”
During this very difficult time, the staff at Hawks and Quindel kept me reassured and informed every step of the way. I had the pleasure of working with Attorneys Jessa Victor and Brook Tylka. Jessa, Brook, Matt, and Hadley, thank you for all of your hard work, professionalism and compassion!... “my case was won”
From our first phone call with Donnie Malchow, we knew we'd found the right person to help us. I had filed for disability and been denied. He was willing to walk beside us and thoroughly explain the entire process (lasted over a year and a half) and expectations (gave us... “I would wholeheartedly recommend HQ”
I had another law firm representing me on a non-compete, and when it became clear that I needed new representation, I reached out to Hawks Quindel. Aaron Bibb took my case and he represented me extremely well to an agreeable resolution of the case, and costs were extremely reasonable and... “went above and beyond”
Attorney Halstead and his team went above and beyond to not only win my case, but because of certain circumstances I had going on, they did everything they could to help and rush the settlement through. They were always quick at responding to emails and phone calls with questions I... “I highly suggest this firm”
I can't imagine using any other firm after having Hawks Quindel, they were so knowledgeable and experienced but yet so down to earth to talk with. They kept me informed every step of the way and always answered when I had a question. What a staff, so many great people,... “empathy, intelligence, and professionalism”
I reside in New Mexico but drove a semi-truck coast to coast for an unscrupulous trucking company out of Wisconsin. This logistics company harassed, bullied lied and discriminated against me, keeping my earned wages, and leaving me in a financial hole. Devastated I called and left a message for the... “people treat you like family”
Top notch law firm Jacob and Natalie were my 2 attorneys that represented me on both of my cases? They did a fantastic job. Speaking up for me as they do for thousands of people and especially the little guys down-to-earth, people treat you like family, these people are godsons. “Way beyond my expectations”
Many thanks from my family to all of you at the firm!!! Hawks Quindel, S.C. is the only place I would consider for LTD, disability, SSDI, ERISA, EEOC, DRoW legal help!! Jessa Victor and her team got me all the answers and results when I didn't think it was possible!!!... “His team were patient and professional”
I had the pleasure of being represented by Aaron N. Halstead, Shareholder, on my discrimination case. His team were patient and professional. I would highly recommend this firm for the professionalism and efficiency for working through my case. “If there were 10 stars”
If there were 10 stars I would give them that. There are not enough words to express my gratitude for Aaron, Ben and their team. I felt strong with them behind me. Exceeded expectations is an understatement. “wonderful to work with”
I had mauve she was wonderful to work with! She helped me with my long battle to get SSI and SSDI. Which thankfully I now have! She's a delight and really helps boost anyone's confidents. “Extremely knowledgeable”
I had an incredible experience regarding my workers compensation case with Jakob Feltham! It was my first workers compensation case (*or first case ever), and I didn't know anything about the legalities surrounding my issue, or what I was entitled to? Jake Feltham had ALL my answers, and made it... “I’m happy with the work they did”
They were extremely responsive and good at communication throughout the process. They were accommodating of my disability and explained things well, taking time to answer all my questions. I'm happy with the work they did. Felt like I really had people on my side during a confusing and difficult time. “consistently responsive and professional”
My recent experience with Hawk Quindel, and in particular with John Leppanen in the Milwaukee office. He, was extremely valuable. The support/intake staff responded quickly to my initial inquiry, and John was responsive and made time soon after our initial contact to begin work on my case. John was able... “the best lawyers, trustworthy”
Excellent people, the best lawyers, trustworthy, always seeking the best results in the shortest possible time. I highly recommend them. “Very Helpful”
Eze the intake coordinator was awesome, very helpful and connected me with the right people to help with my situation! Thank you Eze! “Had My Back”
In 2010, I returned home from my second deployment. In 2012, I was told by the VA I couldn’t return to the job I was working at. It is now 2019, and through 7 years of needing legal representation, Hawks had my back through 3 separate issues: short term disability,... “Best Decision”
I really don’t know how to put this in words to express how happy, satisfied, and really just overwhelmed with a sense of justice being handed out on my behalf. This big corporate work comp insurer treated me wrong, but before I decided to give up I contacted Hawks Quindel,... “Highly Recommend”
The attorneys at Hawks Quindel worked tirelessly on my behalf. They were transparent at every step of the way, and answered any questions I had directly and in ways that someone without a legal background could easily understand. Although I would highly recommend them to anyone who is potentially facing... Paternity Actions for Unmarried Parents
Family law matters are not limited to married couples. When parents are not married, establishing legal paternity is the first step toward resolving important issues involving parental rights and responsibilities.
A paternity action can establish:
- Legal parentage.
- Child custody.
- Physical placement.
- Child support obligations.
- Parenting rights and responsibilities.
Whether you are seeking to establish parental rights or respond to a paternity action, our attorneys can explain the legal process and advocate for an outcome that serves both your interests and your child's best interests.
Child Support Matters
Child support plays an important role in ensuring children receive appropriate financial support from both parents.
Wisconsin uses statutory guidelines when calculating child support, but determining the appropriate amount is not always straightforward. Income, placement schedules, shared custody arrangements, and other factors may affect the final support obligation.
At Hawks Quindel, we assist clients in establishing child support, modifying existing support orders following significant changes in circumstances, and enforcing court-ordered support when payments are not made as required. Our goal is to help clients understand their rights while pursuing fair, legally appropriate support arrangements.
Post-Judgment Family Law Matters
A divorce judgment or paternity order does not always end the need for legal representation. As families grow and circumstances change, existing court orders sometimes need to be modified or enforced.
We regularly represent clients in post-judgment matters involving:
- Modification of legal custody.
- Changes to physical placement schedules.
- Enforcement of existing court orders.
- Child support modifications.
- Disputes regarding compliance with prior judgments.
Whether your circumstances have changed significantly or the other party has failed to comply with an existing order, we can evaluate your situation and explain the legal options available under Wisconsin law.
Marital Property Agreements Can Protect Your Future
Many couples choose to establish expectations about property ownership before or during marriage. In Wisconsin, these agreements are commonly referred to as marital property agreements, and they may be entered into before marriage (prenuptial agreements) or after marriage (postnuptial agreements).
A properly prepared marital property agreement can help couples clarify how certain assets and debts will be treated during the marriage and if the marriage later ends. These agreements are often used to:
- Protect a family business or professional practice.
- Preserve inherited or premarital assets.
- Address ownership of real estate or investment accounts.
- Clarify financial expectations between spouses.
Every couple's financial situation is different. Our attorneys work closely with clients to prepare agreements that reflect their goals while complying with Wisconsin law.
Registering Out-of-State Family Court Orders in Wisconsin
Families frequently relocate for work, education, or personal reasons. If you recently moved to Wisconsin, you may need to register an existing family court order before a Wisconsin court can enforce or modify it.
Depending on your circumstances, this may involve orders relating to:
- Child custody.
- Physical placement.
- Child support.
- Paternity judgments.
Properly registering an out-of-state order can help ensure that it remains enforceable after your move and can simplify future legal proceedings if modifications become necessary. Our attorneys assist clients in transferring these matters to Wisconsin courts and navigating the associated legal requirements.
Property Rights for Unmarried Couples
Not every committed relationship results in marriage, and many unmarried couples build lives together by purchasing homes, sharing finances, or acquiring other property.
Unlike married spouses, unmarried partners generally do not have the benefit of Wisconsin's divorce laws governing property division if the relationship ends. Instead, disputes often depend on ownership records, written agreements, financial contributions, and other legal principles.
Questions frequently arise regarding jointly owned homes, bank accounts, personal property, business interests, and responsibility for shared debts. Addressing these issues early—or obtaining legal advice before a dispute develops—can often reduce uncertainty and help protect your financial interests.
Representation During Family Law Mediation
Many Wisconsin family law cases are resolved through mediation before they ever reach trial. Mediation gives both parties an opportunity to negotiate solutions with the assistance of a neutral mediator, but that does not mean you should attend a mediation session without legal guidance.
Our family law attorneys regularly represent clients throughout the mediation process, helping them evaluate settlement proposals, understand the legal consequences of potential agreements, and negotiate from an informed position. We can help you prepare before mediation, advise you during negotiations, and review proposed agreements before they become legally binding.
When mediation successfully resolves outstanding issues, families often avoid the expense and uncertainty of prolonged litigation. If mediation is unsuccessful, however, our attorneys are fully prepared to continue advocating for you in court.
Our Approach to Family Law Representation
Every family law matter deserves thoughtful preparation and practical advice. At Hawks Quindel, we recognize that many clients are navigating unfamiliar legal issues as they make important decisions about their children, finances, and future.
From your first meeting through the conclusion of your case, we focus on providing clear communication, realistic guidance, and responsive representation. We take the time to answer your questions, explain the legal process, and develop strategies that reflect your priorities rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
Whether your case is resolved through negotiation or requires litigation, our attorneys remain committed to helping you achieve a fair and lasting resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin Family Law Issues
Do I have to go to trialcourt to get divorced in Wisconsin?
Not necessarily. Many divorces are resolved through negotiated settlement or mediation, allowing the parties to reach agreements on important issues before appearing at the final court hearing. However, contested matters may require one or more court appearances.
Can a child custody or placement order be changed after the divorce is final?
Yes. Wisconsin courts allow modifications in certain circumstances when the legal requirements are met. Significant changes affecting the child or the parents may warrant a review of an existing custody or placement order. We can review your situation and explain whether you are eligible to modify a prior court order.
What is the difference between a prenuptial agreement and a postnuptial agreement?
Both are marital property agreements. A prenuptial agreement is signed before marriage, while a postnuptial agreement is entered into after the marriage has already begun. Each serves to establish how certain property and financial matters will be handled.
What should I bring to my first meeting with a family law attorney?
It is helpful to bring any existing court orders, financial records, prenuptial or marital property agreements, and other documents related to your legal issues. If documents are unavailable, our attorneys can explain what information will be most helpful and help gather it as your case moves forward.
Can grandparents or other relatives request visitation with a child?
In some circumstances, yes. Wisconsin law allows certain grandparents, great-grandparents, stepparents, and other individuals with a significant relationship to a child to seek visitation rights from the court. These cases are highly fact-specific, and the court will consider whether granting visitation serves the child's best interests while respecting the parents' rights.
What happens if one parent wants to move out of state with the child?
Relocating after a divorce or paternity judgment can affect existing custody and physical placement arrangements. Wisconsin law includes specific notice requirements and procedures when a proposed move could substantially impact the other parent's placement rights. Before relocating, it is important to understand how the move may affect your existing court orders and whether court approval or a modification may be necessary.
Speak With the Madison Family Law Attorneys at Hawks Quindel Today
Whether you are considering divorce, establishing parental rights, modifying an existing court order, or planning for your family's future through a marital property agreement, our experienced legal guidance can help you make informed decisions with confidence.
The attorneys at Hawks Quindel are committed to providing practical advice, skilled advocacy, and personalized representation for individuals and families throughout Madison and Dane County. We will take the time to understand your goals, explain your options, and work toward solutions that protect your interests and those of your family.
Contact the team at Hawks Quindel today by calling our Madison office at (608) 257-0040 or fill out our confidential contact form to discuss your family law matter.