The first meeting with a family mediator is called a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting, often shortened to MIAM.
A MIAM gives you the chance to understand how family mediation works, whether it may be suitable for your situation, and what options are available before going to court. It is not a joint mediation session, and it does not mean you have to continue with mediation afterwards.
At Lakes Mediation, we provide MIAMs for separating couples and parents who need help resolving issues around children, finances, property or divorce.
What Happens at a MIAM?
A MIAM is an initial private meeting with a family mediator. The mediator will explain the mediation process, listen to the issues you need to resolve, and assess whether mediation is suitable.
The mediator may discuss:
- what family mediation involves
- whether mediation is safe and appropriate
- what issues need to be resolved
- how many sessions may be needed
- what the likely costs may be
- whether legal aid may be available
- other options for resolving the dispute
- what happens if mediation cannot proceed
A MIAM is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and understand the next steps.
Who Can Carry Out a MIAM?
A MIAM must be carried out by an authorised family mediator. Only a mediator accredited by the Family Mediation Council can sign the form confirming that you have attended a MIAM for court purposes.
This is important if you may need to make an application to the family court.
Do You Have to Attend a MIAM?
In many family cases, you must attend a MIAM before applying to the family court, unless a valid exemption applies. This includes many applications about child arrangements and some financial matters.
The other person is also usually expected to attend their own MIAM, but they do not have to attend the same meeting as you.
Mediation itself is voluntary. The MIAM is there to help you understand whether mediation could work, not to force you into an agreement.
Can a MIAM Be Separate From Your Former Partner?
Yes. MIAMs are usually held separately. You do not have to sit in the same room as your former partner for your individual MIAM.
If mediation continues after the MIAM, the mediator will discuss whether joint sessions, shuttle mediation or online mediation would be most suitable.
Time is usually spent speaking to each person separately so the mediator can assess whether both people are attending freely and whether there are any safety, pressure or safeguarding concerns.
When Might Mediation Not Be Suitable?
Mediation is not appropriate in every case. It may not be suitable where there are concerns about:
- domestic abuse
- coercive or controlling behaviour
- intimidation or pressure
- urgent safeguarding issues
- child protection concerns
- serious power imbalance
- refusal to engage
- lack of financial disclosure
- immediate need for court protection
If mediation is not suitable, the mediator can explain the next steps and provide the relevant MIAM confirmation if you need to apply to court.
How Much Does a MIAM Cost?
The cost of a MIAM depends on the mediator you choose. GOV.UK gives the usual cost as around £120, although fees can vary. If either you or your former partner qualifies for legal aid, you may not have to pay for the MIAM.
The mediator can explain the cost before you book and discuss whether legal aid may be available.
What Happens After the MIAM?
If mediation is suitable and both people agree to take part, the mediator can arrange the first mediation session.
If mediation is not suitable, or if one person does not want to continue, the mediator can provide the necessary confirmation so you can make a court application if that is your next step.
Even if mediation does not go ahead, attending a MIAM can still help you understand your options and prepare for what may happen next.
How Lakes Mediation Can Help
At Lakes Mediation, we help separating couples and parents understand whether mediation is the right option for their situation.
We can help with:
- MIAM appointments
- child arrangements
- parenting plans
- financial mediation
- property discussions
- pension discussions
- shuttle mediation
- online mediation
Our mediators provide a calm, impartial and structured process so you can understand your options and decide the best way forward.
Contact Lakes Mediation Today
If you need to attend a MIAM or want to find out whether family mediation could help, Lakes Mediation can support you.
Contact Lakes Mediation today or call 01539 644 002 to arrange a MIAM and discuss your next steps.