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Adoptions

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1. I was adopted as a child. Where can I find information about my birth parents?

You must contact the State of Wisconsin Adoption Records Search Program bywriting or calling:
State of Wisconsin
Adoption Records Search Program
P.O. Box 8916
Madison, WI 53708-8916
Phone: (608) 266-7163
State of Wisconsin Adoption Records Search Program

2. I am the birth parent of a child who was adopted. Am I able to access the adoption records of my birth child?

You must contact the State of Wisconsin Adoption Records Search Program at:
State of Wisconsin
Adoption Records Search Program
P.O. Box 8916
Madison, WI 53708-8916
Phone: (608) 266-7163
State of Wisconsin Adoption Records Search Program

3. I was adopted in Douglas County, Wisconsin and need a copy of my Order for Adoption. Can I request a copy directly through the Probate Office?

Yes. Either an adult who was adopted or the adoptive parents of a minor child are able to request a copy of the Order for Adoption directly through the Probate Office upon filling out the Request for Adoption Record and presenting proper identification.
Request for Adoption Record

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Child Support

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1. I have questions about custody or visitation. Who can help me?

The Child Support Agency cannot assist with custody and/or visitation (placement) issues. You may contact a private attorney or file a pro se (do-it-yourself) motion with the Family (Judicial) Court Commissioner's Office.
Judicial Court Commissioner's Office

2. If I lose my job, do I still have to pay child support?

You must report changes in your employment and/or income to the Child Support agency within 10 days of any change. Your court-ordered child support obligation remains the same until a court order or stipulation (agreement) modifies it. Child support will be withheld from Unemployment Compensation benefits. Reporting a change in your employment will not automatically initiate a review of your child support obligation, but you may request a review of your child support order by contacting the Child Support Agency at (715) 395-1327.

3. How do I request a review of my child support order?

A review is the process of checking a child support order to see if it needs to be modified. You may contact the Child Support Agency at (715) 395-1327 to request a review of your child support if 33 months have passed since your last order was entered or if there has been a substantial change in circumstances since the last order was entered. Some examples of a substantial change are a court-ordered change in placement of the children, an upward or downward change in income which would modify the order by at least 15% and $50 per month, the incapacitation of a parent, or the receipt of certain public assistance benefits by the custodial parent.

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Communication Center

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1. Can I call 9-1-1 on my cell phone and is there a cost involved?

Yes, you can call 9-1-1 on your cell phone. However, be prepared to give the 9-1-1 call taker information about your location because it is not like calling 9-1-1 on your home phone. It is free to call 9-1-1 on your cell phone.

2. Does the 9-1-1 call taker know my location?

Assume the 9-1-1 call taker does not know your location. Even if your cell phone is able to provide location information, the chances are you will need to provide the 9-1-1 call taker with additional location information. Remember, the approximate location the 9-1-1 center receives could be as large as three football fields or more. Be prepared to give specific directions to your location.

3. What if I don't know where I'm at when I call 9-1-1?

Look for landmarks, large buildings, street signs, or paperwork nearby that may contain address information. Think back to the main street or highway you were near when your emergency occurred. If others are around, ask them where you are. Do not depend on your cell phone to tell 9-1-1 where you are!

4. Does the 9-1-1 call taker know my phone number when I call 9-1-1 on a cell phone?

Maybe or maybe not, depending upon your cell phone and the technology available to the 9-1-1 center your call connects with. The safest way to approach the problem is to assume that the 9-1-1 call taker will not know your phone number and be prepared to provide them with that information.

5. Why is the 9-1-1 call taker asking me so many questions?

Seconds save lives. The more questions 9-1-1 call takers ask, the more information they can pass on to the emergency personnel responding to your 9-1-1 call. This information allows the emergency personnel to more accurately prepare. In addition, when dealing with medical calls, many 9-1-1 call takers are trained to give emergency pre-arrival instructions. These instructions start the emergency response to the situation immediately.

6. While the 9-1-1 call taker is speaking to me, is help being sent?

Once the basic information and reason for the 9-1-1 call is obtained, the 9-1-1 call taker stays on the line with the caller and sends information to a police, fire, or EMS dispatcher. That person then dispatches or sends the appropriate help to the 9-1-1 caller. In many cases, the 9-1-1 call taker will continue to ask questions, give emergency response information, and pass on situation updates to the responding personnel until help arrives at the scene.

7. Why does the dispatcher transfer my call to another agency?

Your call to 9-1-1 may need to be transferred to another agency because cell phone calls are sent to a 9-1-1 answering point based on cell radio coverage. Cell coverage areas don't always match political boundaries, so most calls are routed to a 9-1-1 answering point that serves the majority of the area. Your call may need to be transferred to the appropriate agency for the area.

8. Why does the call taker transfer my call to another person sometimes?

Each 9-1-1 center is unique. Some 9-1-1 personnel are trained to take any 9-1-1 call that comes to them. Others are only trained to take police, fire, or medical related calls. Be assured that if a 9-1-1 call has to be transferred, it is to give the caller the best response.

9. What do I do if I'm cut off after they answer?

Always try to call 9-1-1 back. Don't wait for the 9-1-1 call taker to try to contact you. They may not have received your cell phone number in the initial 9-1-1 call and may need additional information.

10. Can I keep driving when I call 9-1-1 on a cellular phone?

It is usually best to pull over when calling 9-1-1 as there is less chance of the cell phone signal being dropped if in a stationary location. Additionally, any emergency instructions that need to be carried out can best be done while stopped. Finally, if help needs to reach you, it is best to be in one place so help can get to you, instead of trying to meet them somewhere. If you cannot safely pull over to speak to 9-1-1, then stay calm, pay attention to the roadway and surrounding vehicles, and follow the 9-1-1 call taker's instructions.

11. Should I program 9-1-1 or turn on my auto 9-1-1 feature on my cellular phone?

No. Please don't program 9-1-1 or use the auto 9-1-1 feature. There are numerous accidental calls to 9-1-1 from cell phones that have this feature. The callers often don't realize that their phone has called 9-1-1. Help reduce accidental calls to 9-1-1 by only calling when you have a life-threatening emergency.

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County Clerk

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1. How do I apply for a marriage license?

For information on marriage licenses, view the following link. Marriage Licenses

2. How do I apply for a U.S. passport?

For application information and fees, view the following link. Passports

3. How do I purchase tax-deeded property?

For information on purchasing County land, view the following link. Purchase of County Land

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Courts

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1. If I am involved in a court case, do I need a lawyer?

You may represent yourself or hire a lawyer. The decision whether to hire a lawyer can only be made by you. The people working in the court system cannot make that decision for you and are not allowed to give legal advice.

2. How do I get a lawyer?

Various sources provide information on lawyers. The local phone book provides various local attorneys. The following statewide referral sources are available. This list is not all inclusive, many more sources are available. Not all sources listed refer lawyers for all types of cases.

• Office of the State Public Defender
  Superior Trial Office
  1310 Belknap Street
  Superior, WI 54880
  Ph: (715) 392-7866
  Fx: (715) 392-0800
• State Bar of Wisconsin's Lawyer Referral and Information Service
  Ph: (800) 362-9082
• Wisconsin Judicare, Inc.
  300 Third Street
  Suite 210
  P.O. Box 6100
  Wausau, WI 54402-6100
  Ph: (800) 472-1638
  Fx: (715) 848-1885
• Wisconsin Court System Self Help Center - Legal Assistance

3. Where can I access legal information

Many sources of legal information are available. It is up to you to judge the accuracy and completeness of the information that you receive. Sources of information include the following:

• The State Bar Association provides access to lawyer referrals, free Wisconsin case law, statutes and administrative codes, legal forms, and general legal information
• The Wisconsin State Law Library provides access to legal research sources and general legal information
• Wisconsin statutes, regulations, bills, and acts are available through the Wisconsin Legislative Reference Bureau
• Wisconsin Court System Self Help Center - Legal Information

4. Where can I get the forms that are used in the court system?

Information and forms that are regularly used in the court system on a daily basis are available from the Wisconsin Court System website. You should be aware that the forms are only guidelines. To use them, you may wish to consult with a lawyer. You should also be aware that the forms do not fit all possible situations and many things occur in court for which no standard form exists. You should therefore use the forms with caution and may want to consult with a lawyer.

5. Where do I go to access public records of the court system?

To access public records of the court system, go to the following site. Wisconsin Circuit Court Access

6. Where can I find out about Douglas County's local rules?

View and download the rules at the following site. Douglas County Local Rules

7. If I do not have a computer can I look at written copies of the forms referenced here?

Yes. Many of the forms listed here are available for review in the Clerk of Court’s Office. Copies can be purchased for $1.25 per page.

8. I did not find an answer here. Where else can I go?

For additional questions and answers, view the folowing site. Wisconsin Court System - Frequently Asked Question

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District Attorney

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1. Can I speak with the prosecuting attorney assigned to my case?

Yes, if you are a victim or witness, please call (715) 395-1218 and ask for our Victim-Witness program staff.

If you are a defendant and have hired an attorney, our office will not be able to speak with you because it would be a conflict of interest. We are only able to speak with your attorney regarding your case.

If you do not have an attorney, you can waive your right to an attorney for the purpose of discussing your case with the prosecutor.

2. I have been charged with a crime. I would like an attorney to represent me, but I cannot afford one. What can I do?

There are two ways for you to obtain an attorney to represent you in a criminal case based on low-income eligibility:

• You may go directly to the State Public Defender's Office located at 1310 Belknap Street, Superior, Wisconsin, or you can contact them at (715) 392-7866. They will discuss the steps you need to take to determine if you are eligible for public defender representation.
• If you are not eligible for public defender representation, the Public Defender's Office will give you a form called Petition for Court Appointment of Counsel. You may be eligible for counsel at a reduced rate; however you will be responsible for making monthly payments. You need to file that form with the Clerk of Courts Office. The judge will then decide whether to appoint an attorney to represent you. To obtain specific information on the eligibility requirements, contact the Court Commissioner’s Office at (715) 395-1474 or the Clerk of Court at (715) 395-1203.

If it is determined that you are not eligible for a court appointed attorney, you will need to hire your own attorney, if so desired, or represent yourself.

3. What happens if I miss my court appearance?

If your appearance was for a non-criminal charge, you will be found guilty and owe a fine.

• If your court appearance was a mandatory appearance, a bench warrant may be ordered for your arrest.
• If you have an attorney, you will need to contact your attorney in order to arrange a bench warrant appearance.
• If you were required to appear before a judge or court commissioner, and an attorney does not represent you, you will need to contact the District Attorney’s Office at (715) 395-1218 to have your case scheduled in order to have the bench warrant quashed.

Keep in mind that in all instances, the bench warrant remains active until it is actually quashed in court.

4. If I have an ordinance, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), speeding, or Operating Whie Intoxicated (OWI) first-offense ticket(s), when can I talk to the prosecutor handling it?

You can contact our Office at (715) 395-1218 to ask for the assigned prosecutor at any time.

If at the initial appearance you enter a not guilty plea, your case will be either set for a pre-trial conference with the prosecutor and/or set for a status conference before the assigned judge. You will be given a status conference date by the court. You may show up half an hour early to discuss your case with the assigned prosecutor. If an attorney represents you, then only your attorney can contact our office to discuss your case with our prosecutor.

5. Are your court records open to the public?

Yes, if you are an adult.

If you are looking for information regarding a closed case, you may contact the Clerk of Courts Criminal Division at (715) 395-1203 or Traffic Division at (715) 395-1470. If you want information on a pending criminal case, please contact the Clerk of Courts Criminal Division at (715) 395-1240 or (715) 395-1237.
Court Records

6. Does your office handle child support collections?

No. Any child support questions should be directed either to your attorney or the Child Support Office. That phone number is (715) 395-1420.

Our office becomes involved in child support matters when a criminal failure to pay child support case has been referred to us.
Child Support

7. Does your office handle civil litigation/lawsuit matters?

No. You will need to contact a private attorney for these matters.

8. How do I file a small claims action?

You can obtain and file the paperwork with the Clerk of Courts Office. Contact the Clerk of Courts at (715) 395-1223 for more information.

9. How can I go about getting an extension of time to pay for my court fines?

You need to contact the Clerk of Courts Office at (715) 395-1499 to ask for an extension to pay for court fines. Our Office does not take in money to pay for fines. All fines must be paid to the Douglas County Clerk of Courts.

10. How do I go about requesting a pardon?

You will need to file an application for executive clemency with the Governor's Office. If you have questions, you may telephone the Governor's Office at (608) 266-1212 or write to:
Office of the Governor
Pardon Advisory Board
115 East State Capitol
P.O. Box 7863
Madison, WI 53707

11. I have been getting a lot of phone calls from telemarketers. What can I do to get them to stop calling me?

Consumers can sign up on Wisconsin's No Call List through the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection. A consumer may sign up by calling (866) 9NO-CALL or (866) 966-2255 or by visiting the Wisconsin No Call List website.

12. I can no longer control my son/daughter, what can I do? Who can I call?

Parents may seek assistance from the Douglas County Department of Health and Human Services, Youth and Family Services Unit intake at (715) 395-1304.

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Highway

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1. What time of day does the snow plowing and winter maintenance begin during a snowstorm?

Typically, the snow plow drivers are in their trucks and on their designated snow plow route at 4:00 am. This occurs when the storm is a multi-day event or when the snow fall continues beyond the time when the snow plow driver ends their day on the previous day. Otherwise, their normal daily start time is 7:00 am. If the storm is continuing or conditions are poor enough to warrant it, the drivers will remain on their routes until 8:00 pm.

2. During winter maintenance, why is salt used on the State highways and a sand / salt mixture used on the county highways?

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation is the authority in charge of maintenance of the State highways and their statewide policy is to use straight rock salt to assist in melting ice and snow from those pavements. Douglas County is the authority in charge of the maintenance of the County highways and that policy requires use of a manufactured sand / salt mixture with 5-10% salt. Using only the salt increases the de-icing rate of the roadways, but at a much higher cost than the sand / salt mixture. The price per ton of salt is $69 and the price per ton for the sand/salt mixture is only $17 per ton.

3. What is manufactured sand?

Manufactured sand is material that is screened through one-fourth-inch screens to remove anything larger than one-fourth-inch in diameter. This significantly reduces the risk of vehicular damage.

4. When is the monthly Highway Committee meeting?

The public meeting is typically held at 9:30 am on the first Wednesday of each month at the Hawthorne Highway Department facility. Interested individuals should contact the Highway Department Office at (715) 374-2575 to confirm that the meeting has not been cancelled or rescheduled.

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Intake & Assessment

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1. What is child abuse and neglect?

Child abuse is the physical, sexual, or emotional maltreatment of a child (ages zero to 18) by a parent, family member, other caregiver, or non-caregiver. Physical abuse will involve cuts, broken or fractured bones, burns, internal injuries, or severe and frequent bruising inflicted on a child by non-accidental means. Sexual abuse will involve sexual intercourse, other sexual contact, or exploitation. Emotional abuse will involve verbal mistreatment, withholding of love or companionship, and the like.

Child neglect is the failure of a parent or other caregiver to provide necessary care (including supervision), food, clothing, shelter, and medical care (for reasons other than poverty) so as to seriously endanger the physical health of a child.

2. What should I do if I believe that a child is abused or neglected?

You should make a report if you believe that a child (a boy or girl ages zero to 18) has been:

• Abused (physically, sexually, or emotionally)
• Neglected (physically or emotionally)
• At risk of abuse or neglect

If you suspect that a child has been abused or neglected or if you suspect that a child is at risk of being abused or neglected, you can make a report to a Douglas County Department of Health and Human Services Intake Worker at (715) 395-1304. If there is an emergency situation occurring or if you need to make a report outside normal business hours, phone 9-1-1.

3. What will happen when I report child protection concerns?

A social worker will write up your report. They will wish to know the names, ages, and addresses of family members. They will wish to hear information about the suspected abuse or neglect. Please be prepared to provide as much information as possible. It is critical for the social worker to obtain as much information to make a judgment about present danger threats and likely emergency conditions to child safety. This information assists the agency in identifying not only what actions it should take but also whether the option for an emergency response applies.

A supervisor will review the report and decide if the situation is of sufficient seriousness to merit an investigation.

4. What will happen when the social worker sees the child and family?

Social workers will interview children and family members regarding the maltreatment concerns. They will assess present or impending danger threats to child safety and family strengths and needs. They will make determinations as to whether maltreatment, as defined in state statutes, has occurred. The social worker will make decisions as to services which may benefit the children and family.

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Land Records

Show All Answers

1. Where can I purchase a plat book?

Plat books can be purchased at Douglas County Land Records Department, Douglas County Forestry Department, Solon Springs Mercantile, and Poplar Hardware.

2. How do I find / use the City / County mapping website?

The following site allows you to use the geographic and assessment record information online. Superior / Douglas County, WI Geographic Informati

3. Has there been a survey completed on my property?

Research survey records at the Land Records Department or online from the following site. ImageSilo

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Planning & Zoning

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1. I live out in the country. Do I need a permit to build?

The Douglas County Zoning Ordinance states that a land use permit is required to be applied for and issued prior to construction of any structure. Due to the complexity of each situation it is best to contact our office directly to describe your project. The experienced Zoning Department staff will ask a series of questions to identify the property and will guide you through the entire permitting process.

2. Do I need five acres to build?

Not necessarily. Contained in the Douglas County Zoning Ordinance are minimum lot width and area dimensions for newly created parcels of land in each zoning district. The ordinance includes lot dimensions for lots in the shoreland district near lakes and streams.

3. What is the difference between a land use permit and a conditional use permit?

The Douglas County Zoning Ordinance includes a map of the county identifying the zoning districts. Each zoning district has a number of allowed uses and uses allowed with a conditional use permit. The primary difference is that a land use permit is approved by the Zoning Administrator and does not require approval by the Zoning Committee. A conditional use permit does require a public hearing and approval by the Zoning Committee.

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Probate

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1. What is Probate?

Probate is the court-supervised process to transfer ownership of a decedent’s solely owned assets to the rightful heirs either with a will (testate) or without a will (intestate).

2. Do a decedent’s assets always have to go through probate?

No. If the decedent had a will, the original will must be filed with the Register in Probate within 30 days of the date of death regardless of whether or not a probate is filed.

If the decedent’s solely owned assets are less than $50,000, you may be able to use the Transfer of Affidavit ($50,000 and under) Form PR-1831, which can also be obtained online from Wisconsin Courts. This form is not filed in the Probate Office.

Generally, if a decedent had more than $50,000 in solely owned assets, a probate is necessary to transfer ownership of the decedent's assets to his/her heirs.

3. How do I file a claim against an estate?

A standard claim form (PR-1819) can be obtained online from Wisconsin Courts. The completed form, along with the statutory $3 filing fee, must be filed with the Register in Probate prior to the expiration of the claims date. The last date for filing claims can be obtained by either calling the Register in Probate, viewing the publication, or checking online to review the court record. A copy of the claim should also be provided to the Personal Representative and/or Attorney of Record. Once the claim has been satisfied, a Receipt of Claim (PR-1815) must be sent to the Register in Probate by the claimant.

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Real Property Lister

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1. I bought a parcel of land in Douglas County. Why didn't I receive my tax statement?

First check to see if your deed was recorded with the Register of Deeds. If so, then check with the Real Property Lister to make sure the deed was accurate in terms of chain of title and legal description. Property tax records are not transferred unless the required information is correct. Register of Deeds

2. My spouse and I have divorced. Why does his/her name keep appearing on the assessment notices and tax bills?

The Real Property Lister is required to list the owners of real estate according to the recorded documents in the Register of Deeds office. If there was no type of documentation to change the ownership in the property (quit claim deed, divorce judgement, etc.), we do not have any way of changing the names. In this case, you may wish to check with the attorney handling the divorce about transferring the property.

3. My spouse has passed away, but the assessment notice and tax bill still shows the name. How can I get their name removed?

It depends on how the title to the property was held. If the property was held in joint tenancy or survivorship marital property, you can file a Termination of Decedent's Interest form with the Register of Deeds office. If the property was not titled this way, you may wish to contact an attorney to help transfer the property, especially if the property needs to go through probate.

4. I was married recently. Why hasn't my name been changed on the tax bill and assessment notice?

If you haven't recorded any document to transfer the title to your property since your marriage, the name reflected on the tax bill and assessment notice will be the same as listed on the conveyance where you took title. To change the ownership, you may contact an attorney to prepare the documents. Or, if you feel comfortable doing it yourself, you may download the deed forms from the Wisconsin State Bar website. Wisconsin State Bar

5. I don't believe my property assessment is correct. Can you change it?

The Real Property Lister is required to maintain the values established by the assessor for your municipality. If you do not agree with your values, you should first contact your assessor to discuss it.

6. I get several tax bills for adjacent parcels of land. Is there any way to combine them?

If you would like the properties to be assessed together, you may contact the assessor for your municipality. If the properties are assessed together, you will get one assessment notice and one tax bill, but the properties will continue to be listed individually in the assessment roll. If you want the real estate parcels combined to create one assessment parcel, please contact the Real Property Lister so they may review the parcels.

7. We just bought a brand new lot this year, but the tax bill came in the previous owner's name. Why didn't you update this?

When new lots or parcels are created during the year, new parcel numbers are assigned. However, the thing to keep in mind is that assessments are based on how the property existed on January 1 of the given year. How the property existed on January 1 is how the tax bill will be printed at the end of the year. If a new Plat, CSM (certified survey map), or deed creates new parcels during the year, those parcels will not be assessable and taxable until the following year. What can you do to receive your tax bill? Contact the treasurer for your municipality, who is authorized by statute to split the tax bill for you upon your request. PLEASE NOTE: Some counties process splitting of tax bills differently. Check with your county's Real Property Lister for information.

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Register of Deeds

Show All Answers

1. How do I get a copy of a birth, marriage, or death record?

You can apply in person at the Douglas County Courthouse, 1313 Belknap Street, Room 108, Superior, Wisconsin, by mail at P.O. Box 847, Superior, Wisconsin, or online through the following sites: View Vital Records Applications, Official Payments, or VitalChek

2. How do I record a Quit Claim Deed and a transfer return form?

View the Fee Schedule for Recording from the Wisconsin Register of Deeds Association. Complete the Wisconsin Real Estate Transfer Return Forms. For more information, view the Checklist for Preparation of Documents for Recording from the Wisconsin Register of Deeds Association or contact the Register of Deeds Office at (715) 395-1350.

3. Where can I search property records?

You can use our public terminals on-site or use the following website to search. Landshark

4. When can I do a geneology search?

Geneologists may search records:
Monday - Thursday 9:00 am - 11:30 am & 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Friday 9:00 - 11:30 am & 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Other times by appointment.

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Victim / Witness Services

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1. Who is eligible for victim / witness services?

Any person who is a victim of a crime, a witness to a crime, or a family member of a homicide victim.

2. How do I request victim witness services?

You may request victim / witness services by calling our Office at (715) 395-1349. Our Office hours are from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

3. What are the costs for victim / witness services?

Our services are provided free of charge.

4. As a victim of a crime, how can I find out about my case?

You may contact the Victim / Witness Office and request information about the day and time of the upcoming court hearing in your case by calling our Office at (715) 395-1349. Our Office hours are from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. You may also check online with the following site: Wisconsin Courts Access

5. How do I get my property returned if it has been recovered by the police?

You can make a request to the Victim-Witness Office to pass on to the responding law enforcement agency by calling our Office at (715) 395-1349. Our Office hours are from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

Recovered property may be needed as evidence if your case goes to trial. You will be notified by the police when your property is no longer needed.

6. What if the defendant's investigator or attorney wants to talk to me?

You are free to speak with them and you are also free to decline to answer their questions. Be sure you know who you are talking to before discussing the case. It is perfectly proper for you to ask for identification of the person who wants to talk to you.