Explain how family mediation works and how it helps you stay in control of decisions.
Talk through the alternatives to court and how disputes can be resolved without litigation.
Ask about your situation including any concerns relating to children, finances, or safety.
Explore whether mediation offers a safe and appropriate way forward for you.
A MIAM is often required before applying to the family court for matters relating to children or finances, although some exemptions apply. Mediation itself is always voluntary and a MIAM is not a commitment to mediate. It allows you to understand your options and explore whether mediation could help. Mediation will only go ahead if both people choose to take part and participation is always voluntary.
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A MIAM offers a calm, supportive starting point at an uncertain time. It provides clear information about your options and assesses whether mediation is safe and suitable, with your wellbeing always the priority. It also allows you to keep control of decisions that affect your family’s future, rather than leaving them to the court.
Please see our Fees page for full details.
Agreements reached in mediation are not legally binding on their own. However, they can be formalised through solicitors and approved by the court if you wish, making them legally binding.
You can still attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) on your own. The MIAM allows you to understand how mediation works and explore your options, even if the other person is unsure or unwilling at this stage.
Mediation is always voluntary and cannot proceed unless both people agree to take part. If the other person chooses not to engage, or if mediation is not appropriate, a MIAM certificate can be issued, allowing you to apply to the family court if you wish.
In most cases, the court expects the person making the court application (the applicant) to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to the family court about children or finances, unless an exemption applies.
The purpose of the MIAM is to ensure people understand their options and have considered whether issues could be resolved by agreement, rather than through a court process. Mediation is often encouraged as it can be less stressful, quicker, and more cost-effective.
The MIAM is not mediation itself, and there is no obligation to take part in mediation. If mediation does not go ahead, a MIAM certificate will be issued so a court application can be made.
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