BJ Mann Mediation Services

Mediation is an option where the participants fully control the negotiation and communicated directly with each other under the guidance of the mediator, BJ Mann. This reduces stress and saves time and money.

Couples who use mediation to develop their separation or divorce agreement find the experience minimizes the emotional and financial cost of divorce.

Working with BJ, an experienced, compassionate mediator, each couple discusses and resolves issues such as parenting plans, child support, marital property, retirement assets, real estate, taxes and other concerns. Couples who use mediation have a significantly better post-divorce relationship.

The process begins with a free consultation meeting between BJ and the parties involved. At this meeting, BJ describes and discusses the process, fees, and scheduling. Mediated agreements usually cost less than half of traditionally litigated divorces because the parties are doing the negotiating themselves and because one experienced mediator, BJ is involved instead of two attorneys.

BJ Mann’s fees vary depending on a number of factors. She works with her clients to help make the mediation as affordable as possible. The fee is paid by the couple together, not individually.

Throughout the mediation process, the parties involved often consult with a range of professionals such as attorneys, financial and tax planners, and insurance agents. BJ can provide referrals to qualified professionals as needed.

At the conclusion of the mediation sessions, BJ prepares a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which documents the agreements that the parties have discussed. This is a comprehensive yet easy to understand document and is generally incorporated into the separation or divorce filings.

Some couples take the MOU to their respective attorneys for review. Then one of the attorneys will complete the required forms to file the legal separation or divorce action with the court system.

Other couples decide to have the MOU processed into the legal system by using one, neutral attorney who will file the papers but neither represents nor gives legal advice regarding the content of the MOU to either person.

New York State does not require couples to use the services of an attorney to obtain a divorce. However, BJ encourages consulting an attorney, which may be beneficial to both parties.

Mediation is a gentler and more affordable alternative to the traditional attorney and litigation divorce process. Mediation is a very effective way to find solutions. The communication process is clearer and the options for solutions are generally much greater.

Couples who use mediation find there is a much higher compliance rate with the agreement and a significantly better post-divorce relationship, which is invaluable when children are involved. Less strain between parents makes divorce easier for children to cope with. Working with a skilled mediator like BJ Mann means the participants feel valued, respected and heard, so there are fewer misunderstandings in the future.

For more information, please read Why Divorce Mediation Works.

BJ Mann holds all aspects of her relationship with clients as confidential, including the fact that they are clients. Whether she is working with an individual or a couple, she divulges nothing to anyone other than the client unless the client wishes otherwise.