North Shore Massachusetts

Most people who call us have been thinking about it for months.

That's okay. One conversation changes what's possible.

Whether you're facing a divorce, a custody dispute, or a decision you've been putting off, one call gives you a clear picture of where you stand. No pressure. No commitment. Just clarity about your options and what comes next.

No commitment. Confidential. We respond within one business day, urgent matters same day.

Topsfield · Gloucester · North Andover
Response Within One Business Day
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If you're here, something has already changed.

You've probably been turning this over for a while. Maybe you've worried about the kids, the house, what happens to the life you've built. Maybe you've looked this up more than once and closed the tab before anyone noticed. That's where almost everyone who calls us starts.

You don't need to have it all figured out to make one call. You just need a clear picture of where you stand and what your options are. That's what the first conversation is for.

How We Can Help You

Our practice is built around the legal matters that matter most to North Shore families. We bring expertise, compassion, and deep local knowledge to every case, from Salem to Newburyport.

Divorce Litigation

When divorce is contested, you need an attorney who is fully prepared to fight for your rights in court. We represent North Shore clients through every stage, from filing through final decree, with strategy, clarity, and resolve.

  • Contested & Uncontested Divorce
  • Property & Asset Division
  • Spousal Support & Alimony
  • Child Custody & Support
  • High-Asset & Business Divorce
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Divorce Mediation

Mediation resolves divorce outside of court: faster, at less cost, and with less conflict. A neutral mediator guides both parties to agreement on property, support, and parenting, keeping control with you rather than a judge.

  • Divorce & Separation Mediation
  • Property & Asset Division
  • Child Custody & Parenting Plans
  • Spousal Support (Alimony)
  • Post-Divorce Dispute Mediation
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Collaborative Divorce

Brigantine Law's founding specialty. Collaborative divorce keeps both parties in control, resolving all issues outside of court through structured negotiation, protecting your family and your finances.

  • Collaborative Divorce Process
  • Separation Agreements
  • Property & Debt Division
  • Parenting Plans
  • Post-Divorce Modifications
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Guardianships/Conservatorships

When a loved one can no longer make decisions for themselves, we navigate Essex and Middlesex County Probate Courts with compassion and expertise, protecting those you love at their most vulnerable.

  • Adult & Minor Guardianship
  • Conservatorships
  • Emergency Temporary Guardianship
  • Essex and Middlesex County Probate Courts
  • Modifications & Terminations
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Adoption

Adoption is one of the most joyful legal processes a family can experience, and one of the most procedurally important to get right. We guide North Shore families through every step with care, clarity, and a genuine investment in your outcome.

  • Stepparent Adoption
  • Second-Parent Adoption
  • Private Domestic Adoption
  • Foster Care Adoption
  • Adult Adoption
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Why North Shore Families Choose Brigantine Law

A law firm is only as good as the values it brings to every client, every day. Here is what we believe in.

Non-Adversarial by Choice

We specialize in collaborative divorce and mediation because we believe legal challenges don't have to become battles. Our approach protects your family, your finances, and your future.

Deep Local Roots

Our Topsfield office means we know Essex County and Middlesex County courts, local precedents, and the communities we serve, from Salem to Newburyport. We're not a franchise. We're your neighbors.

Responsive Communication

Every inquiry receives a response within one business day. Urgent matters are addressed same day. You'll always know where your matter stands and what comes next.

Credentials That Matter

Clinton Dalton graduated from Stanford University and earned his J.D. from the University of San Diego School of Law, where he received the Jurisprudence Award — exceptional credentials he puts to work every day for North Shore families.

One Firm for Every Chapter

From prenuptial agreements to estate planning to guardianships, we handle the full arc of family legal life. You won't be handed off to a stranger when your needs change. We're here for the long term.

Straightforward About Fees

No surprises. We explain our fee structure at the outset, give honest estimates of what a matter is likely to cost, and discuss alternatives, including flat-fee arrangements for estate planning work, so you can plan accordingly.

Meet Your Attorney

Deep North Shore roots, exceptional credentials, and genuine investment in every client's outcome.

What Our Clients Say

Families across the North Shore trust Brigantine Law with the decisions that matter most. · Read their reviews on Google

★★★★★

"Clint Dalton was amazing to work with. He took what is a very overwhelming and tense situation, and made it easy to understand and far less overwhelming."

— Grant K.  ·  Google Review
★★★★★

"Attorney Clint Dalton provided first-class service, patience and counsel in family law, making a sometimes tense situation palatable while being a strong advocate on my behalf."

— J.P. James  ·  Google Review
★★★★★

"We just went through a divorce. Clint and his team made the process easy and stress free, which is unusual in a divorce. Thanks for all the help!"

— Amando C.  ·  Google Review

Read all reviews on Google →

Committed to the North Shore Community

We actively support The Open Door food security organization serving Essex and Middlesex Counties, the Appalachian Mountain Club protecting the Northeast's natural places, and Human Rights Watch.

The Open Door
Appalachian Mountain Club
Human Rights Watch

Not Ready to Call? That's Okay.

Tell us a little about your situation and we'll reach out within one business day. No obligation, no pressure. Just a conversation with someone who can help.

  • Completely confidential
  • Response within one business day
  • Initial Consultation
  • Topsfield, Massachusetts

Tell Us About Your Situation

No commitment. Confidential. We respond the same day.

Prefer to add details? Tell us a little more (optional)

Your message is protected by attorney-client confidentiality. We will never share your information.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Schedule a consultation at our Topsfield office or virtually. We'll listen carefully, explain your options clearly, and help you move forward with confidence.

Schedule a Consultation 978-561-3090

No commitment. Confidential. We respond the same day.