813.015.Subject matter jurisdiction.
Ch. 813: Injunctions, Ne Exeat and Receivers · Last amended 2015 · Last verified July 15, 2026
Full Text of Section 813.015
Plain-English Summary
Restraining order petitioners sometimes have connections to more than one state — a respondent who abused them elsewhere before they moved to Wisconsin, for instance. Section 813.015 removes any doubt about whether a Wisconsin court can hear that kind of case. In an action filed under section 813.12, 813.122, or 813.125, the court has subject-matter jurisdiction under section 801.04 regardless of whether the alleged abuse or harassment occurred within the state.
By tying the jurisdictional standard to section 801.04’s general framework, the section keeps petitioners from being turned away on a threshold jurisdictional argument because the underlying conduct took place somewhere other than Wisconsin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a domestic abuse restraining order in Wisconsin if the abuse happened in another state?
Yes. Section 813.015 gives the court subject-matter jurisdiction under section 801.04 regardless of where the alleged abuse or harassment occurred.
Does this jurisdiction rule apply to child abuse restraining order petitions?
Yes. It applies to actions filed under section 813.122 as well as sections 813.12 and 813.125.
Does it apply to harassment restraining orders too?
Yes. Actions under section 813.125 are covered along with the domestic abuse and child abuse provisions.
What statute supplies the underlying jurisdiction standard referenced here?
Section 801.04, Wisconsin’s general subject-matter jurisdiction statute.
Why would this section matter to someone who recently moved to Wisconsin?
Because it makes clear that where the abuse or harassment occurred does not, by itself, defeat a Wisconsin court’s jurisdiction to hear the petition.
Amendment History
History: 2015 a. 4.