Waushara County

Waushara County is located in the central part of Wisconsin, characterized by its sandy soils, glacial lakes, and agricultural heritage. Established in 1851, Waushara County was named after a Potawatomi chief and includes approximately 626 square miles. Waushara County seat is Wautoma, located at the geographic center of Waushara County, which houses the main government offices including Waushara County Courthouse at 209 South Saint Marie Street. With a population of approximately 24,500 residents, Waushara County is known for its rural character and seasonal tourism economy driven by its numerous lakes and recreational opportunities. Major communities include Wautoma, Wild Rose, Redgranite, Plainfield, Coloma, and Hancock. Waushara County is home to over 100 lakes, making it a popular destination for fishing, boating, and summer vacationers. The scene reflects Wisconsin's glacial past, with rolling farmland interspersed with wetlands and forested areas. Waushara County government operates through several key offices: Waushara County Register of Deeds maintains property records, the County Clerk handles vital records and elections, and the County Assessor manages property valuations. Waushara County economy has historically centered on agriculture, particularly potato farming and dairy operations, though tourism has become increasingly important. What makes Waushara County unique is its blend of working farms, pristine natural lakes, and small-town communities that maintain their historic character while serving both year-round residents and seasonal visitors who contribute significantly to the local economy.

The Waushara County Court serves Waushara County, Wisconsin and handles civil, criminal, family, and probate cases. The courthouse is located in the county seat of this area. Court records and case filings can be requested in person or through the Wisconsin online court portal.

Waushara County Wisconsin court jurisdiction is located at 209 S. Saint Marie Street, Wautoma, WI 54982. The court has jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases, including felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, small claims, and probate matters. The court also handles juvenile cases, family law matters, and appeals from lower courts.

Law Enforcement & Arrests

• Citizens may request arrest records by submitting a written request to the Sheriff's Office or the specific municipal police department that made the arrest.
• Requests should include identifying information such as the subject's name and date of birth, and agencies may charge reasonable fees for copying and staff time.
• Mugshots and booking photos are generally considered public records in Wisconsin and may be obtained through formal public records requests to the arresting agency.
• Processing times vary, but agencies must respond to requests within a reasonable timeframe as outlined in state law.

Mugshots & Booking Photos

• For more detailed documents such as actual court filings, motions, and exhibits, requests must be made directly to Waushara County Clerk of Circuit Court.
• Copies of court records are available for statutory fees, typically $1.25 per page for paper copies.
• Court hours are generally Monday through Friday during standard business hours, and the Clerk of Circuit Court office can provide information on specific case procedures, filing requirements, and fee schedules.

• Many Wisconsin counties, including Waushara County, participate in the Wisconsin Land Information Program, and property records may be searchable through online systems.
• Certified copies of recorded documents are available from the Register of Deeds for statutory fees, currently $2.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page for most recorded documents.
• The office accepts in-person requests, mail requests with appropriate fees, and may offer online ordering options for documents.

Vital records for this county include birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates issued under state vital statistics law.

• Birth certificates are available for births occurring from 1876 forward, with fees typically $20 for the first certified copy and $3 for each additional copy of the same record ordered at the same time.
• Death certificates follow similar fee structures.
• Processing time for in-person requests is often same-day or within a few business days, while mail requests typically take two to three weeks.
• The state office offers online ordering through VitalChek for an additional convenience fee, providing expedited processing options for those who need records quickly.

Business records, licenses, and permits for this county are processed by the County Clerk and local government offices.

• This free online system provides access to business records statewide including all entities registered in or doing business in Waushara County.