Divorce Litigation on the North Shore
From straightforward separations to complex, high-asset cases, with an attorney who knows how to find hidden money.
The decisions you make early shape everything that follows
Whether you are splitting up after a short marriage or ending a decades-long partnership, the decisions made early shape everything that follows. Brigantine Law represents North Shore clients through every type of divorce, from straightforward uncontested separations to complex high-asset matters involving business interests and financial concealment.
We approach every case with one goal: the best achievable outcome for you, pursued through the most efficient and least damaging process available. The sooner you understand your options, the more control you have over what comes next. Whether your divorce is contested or settled, we bring the full depth of our experience to every phase, from initial petition through final decree. And however hard things get, you will never be left guessing: we explain every step in plain English, and you will always know where your case stands.
High-asset divorce: Founder and Managing Director Clinton Dalton spent years with the U.S. Department of Defense tracing hidden financial assets. That forensic expertise transfers directly to complex divorce, where financial concealment is common and having an attorney who knows how to find it makes a decisive difference.
How divorce litigation works in Massachusetts
A clear path through the court process, so you always know what comes next.
Consultation and strategy
We learn your situation and goals, explain your options, and set a strategy built around the outcome that matters most to you.
Filing the complaint for divorce
We prepare and file the complaint (or respond to one your spouse has filed) in the Essex Probate and Family Court, opening your case.
Temporary orders, if needed
When support, custody, or use of the home needs to be settled right away, we request temporary orders to protect you while the case proceeds.
Discovery and financial disclosure
Both sides exchange financial information. Where assets may be hidden, we use formal discovery and forensic analysis to uncover the full picture.
Negotiation and pretrial
Most issues, and often the entire case, resolve through negotiation once the facts are clear. We push for a fair settlement wherever one is possible.
Trial and judgment, if necessary
If a fair agreement is not reachable, we are fully prepared to try your case. The divorce becomes final after the statutory waiting period.
What we handle in divorce litigation
We represent clients across the full range of divorce and related matters, in and out of the courtroom.
- Contested divorce and litigation
- Uncontested divorce
- High-asset and business divorce
- Property division and asset protection
- Spousal support (alimony)
- Child custody and support
- Parenting plans
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
- Hidden asset investigation
- Post-divorce modifications
- 209A protective orders
A rare skill set for complex cases
When money has been moved out of sight, our DoD-trained, asset-tracing background helps level the field. Few Massachusetts family attorneys bring it.
Talk to UsTools and guides for divorce
Free resources to help you prepare and understand your options.
Property Division Estimator
See how Massachusetts courts may approach dividing your marital property.
CalculatorMassachusetts Alimony Calculator
Estimate potential spousal support under current Massachusetts guidelines.
QuizHidden Asset Risk Assessment
Spot the warning signs that a spouse may be concealing money or property.
ArticleHow Property Is Divided in Massachusetts
What "equitable division" really means, and what it means for your case.
ArticleFinding Hidden Assets in Divorce
How concealed money is uncovered, and what to do if you suspect it.
ArticleHow Long Does a Divorce Take?
Realistic timelines for contested and uncontested divorce in Massachusetts.
ArticleWhat to Expect at Essex Probate & Family Court
A first-timer's guide to the Salem and Lawrence sessions: what to bring, where to park, and what happens at a first hearing.
Common questions about divorce litigation
How long does a contested divorce take in Massachusetts?
A contested divorce typically takes a year or more, depending on the issues in dispute and the court's schedule. Many cases settle before trial once the facts are clear. By Massachusetts law there is also a statutory waiting period before any divorce becomes final.
What is the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce?
In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on all terms and file a joint petition, which is faster and less expensive. A contested divorce is one where the spouses cannot agree on one or more issues, such as property, support, or custody, and the court process resolves the disputes.
What if I think my spouse is hiding assets?
Hiding assets in a divorce is illegal, and it is often discoverable. Attorney Clinton Dalton spent years with the U.S. Department of Defense tracing concealed funds, and that forensic experience transfers directly to high-asset divorce. We use formal discovery and financial analysis to find what has been hidden.
Will my divorce go to trial?
Most divorces settle before trial. We prepare every case as if it could go to trial, which strengthens your position in negotiation, but we always pursue the most efficient and least damaging path to a fair outcome.
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- Topsfield, Massachusetts