Business Divorce® Mediation Services

For the better part of 20 years, Jim Underhill has represented partners, shareholders and LLC members in governance issues and ownership disputes, beginning with the drafting of shareholder agreements when the business is formed,  then counseling when serious business disputes develop,  and representing business owners in litigation or mediation when they cannot find a workable solution to their problems.

Jim is available as a mediator to assist in the resolution of Business Divorce® disputes outside the courtroom.   Jim does not just tell clients what “the law” requires while pressuring each side to make concessions.   Instead, understanding the options available, including those which the parties may not have thought of themselves, he speaks the language of business.   His focus is upon helping business owners work through the situation to find desirable options, rather than forcing compromises. 

Resolving disputes among the owners of a business amicably through mediation can save a great deal of money and time.   Just as important, many small business owners went into business together because they were good friends or family members, or they became friends by working together to establish and grow the business.   Using a mediator’s services to resolve serious disputes may allow owners to salvage their friendships and family relationships.   It is a very cost-effective first step towards a permanent solution.

Areas of Expertise:

•   Mediation of business disputes as a neutral retained by both sides
•   Assistance in framing and funding the purchase or redemption of ownership interests
•  Assistance with the negotiation and drafting of partnership, shareholder and member agreements