What is a MIAM?

A MIAM is a Mediation Information Assessment Meeting.

It is a pre-mediation meeting between you and a mediator to find out about mediation and explore ways to find solutions to your dispute.

In the MIAM the mediator will discuss :

  • What your options might be.
  • What mediation is, and how it works.
  • The benefits of mediation and other appropriate forms of resolving disputes.
  • The likely costs of using mediation.
  • If you are eligible for free mediation and Legal Aid.

Click here if you are ready to book a MIAM.

Do I have to have a MIAM?

If you are in dispute with your ex, or are having difficulties settling your separation, you may be thinking about court proceedings and may have heard you need to attend a MIAM.

Before an application can be made to court, you are required to attend a Mediation Information Assessment Meeting (MIAM). The aim of a MIAM is to see if mediation could be used to resolve your difficulties, rather than going to court.

The MIAM will usually be the mediator and just you.

What happens at a MIAM?

In a MIAM you will have the opportunity to tell the mediator about your situation and the issues that need to be agreed upon, the mediator will also explain the mediation process to you.

What happens after the MIAM?

At the end of the meeting, the mediator will tell you whether your case is suitable for mediation, and you can decide whether you want to proceed with mediation or explore another option for resolving your issues.

How long is a MIAM?

The Mediation Information Assessment Meeting usually lasts around 45 minutes.

How much will a MIAM cost?

A MIAM costs in the region of £95-£120 per person depending on the mediation service you use, and if the cost of the MIAM certificate, which is required before you can submit an application to court, is included in the fee, or if this is a separate charge. You should check the cost with your mediation service provider before you start.

If you are eligible for Legal Aid then this will cover all your individual mediation costs, including your MIAM and your ex-partner’s MIAM if they do not qualify in their own right.

If you are not eligible for Legal Aid your local NFM mediation service will be able to advise you of their charges. We provide a range of flexible packages and payment terms and you can find out more about mediation costs here.

The benefits of mediation

Mediation provides a safe, confidential environment, allowing you to discuss future arrangements for you and your family.

Our mediators are skilled at helping you navigate the legal and emotional maze that a family breakdown can create and to help you turn your arguments into agreements to move on with your lives.

  • It is cheaper, quicker and less stressful than going to court.
  • It helps provide long-term solutions that are in the best interests of you and your family.
  • It is flexible and can accommodate all of your family’s unique needs, allowing you to keep more control over your own future.

Mediation will help you sort out

  • the first steps to take
  • the options available to you
  • arrangements for your children
  • child maintenance payments
  • housing and accommodation issues
  • how to settle finances, savings, joint debts, pensions and mortgages

What happens if mediation does not go ahead?

If, after your meeting, it’s considered that mediation is not suitable in your case, the mediator will supply you with a form signed by a certified mediator, this form confirms that you have attended a MIAM and a court will then allow you to issue proceedings.

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