Rule 806.06. Rendition, perfection and entry of judgment

(1)

(a) A judgment is rendered by the court when it is signed by the judge or by the clerk at the judge’s written direction.

(b) A judgment is entered when it is filed in the office of the clerk of court.

(c) A judgment is perfected by the taxation of costs and the insertion of the amount thereof in the judgment.

(d) A judgment is granted when given orally in open court on the record.

(2) The judge or the clerk upon the written order of the judge may sign the judgment. The judgment shall be entered by the clerk upon rendition.

(3) After an order or judgment is entered, either party may serve upon the other a written notice of entry containing the date of entry.

(4) A judgment may be rendered and entered at the instance of any party either before or after perfection. If the party in whose favor the judgment is rendered causes it to be entered, the party shall perfect the judgment within 30 days of entry or forfeit the right to recover costs. If the party against whom the judgment is rendered causes it to be entered, the party in whose favor the judgment is rendered shall perfect it within 30 days of service of notice of entry of judgment or forfeit the right to recover costs. If proceedings are stayed under s. 806.08, judgment may be perfected at any time within 30 days after the expiration of the stay. If the parties agree to settle all issues but fail to file a notice of dismissal, the judge may direct the clerk to draft an order dismissing the action. No execution shall issue until the judgment is perfected or until the expiration of the time for perfection, unless the party seeking execution shall file a written waiver of entitlement to costs.

(5) Notice of entry of judgment or order must be given within 21 days after the entry of judgment or order to constitute notice under s. 808.04 (1).

Committee Notes

Judicial Council Committee’s Note, 1979: Sub. (5) is amended by adding a reference to the entry of an order so as to conform with s. 808.04 (1), which establishes appeal time periods from the entry of a judgment “or” order. [Re Order effective Jan. 1, 1980]

Judicial Council Committee’s Note, 1981: Subs. (3) and (5) are amended to clarify what constitutes a sufficient notice of entry to reduce the appeal time. The notice of entry must be a written document, other than the judgment or order, containing the date of entry and served after the entry of the judgment or order. The notice must accurately and completely inform the opposing party as to the date of entry. [Re Order effective Jan. 1, 1982]