MIAM FAQs

Your most common questions about Mediation Information and Assessment Meetings, answered. If your question is not covered here, call us on 0333 567 1676 or book your MIAM online.

What is a MIAM?

A MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) is a meeting with an accredited family mediator where the facts, circumstances and issues of your case are discussed. Only mediators accredited by the Family Mediation Council can conduct a MIAM. A MIAM is needed both by those who want to mediate with their ex-partner and by anyone who wants to apply to court for child or financial arrangements.

Do I need a MIAM?

In England and Wales, anyone intending to apply to the family court for child arrangements or a financial order must attend a MIAM before doing so, unless a valid exemption applies. Mediation is not only for separating or divorcing couples; it can also help wider family members reach a considered agreement on difficult issues.

There are limited exemptions, for example where there is a history of domestic abuse or where there are safeguarding concerns. Since April 2024 these exemptions have been narrowed, and where one is claimed it generally needs to be supported by evidence filed with the court.

Did the rules change recently?

Yes. On 29 April 2024 the Family Procedure Rules were strengthened to encourage families to resolve disputes away from court. Your mediator must now explain all forms of non-court dispute resolution (NCDR), not just mediation, and the court can take into account, including on costs, any unreasonable refusal to attend a MIAM or consider NCDR. In practice, attending a MIAM is how you show the court you have considered your options.

Will my ex need a MIAM?

Where mediation is being proposed, it is best for both parties to attend a MIAM, so each understands the benefits and can make an informed decision. Each party attends their own separate MIAM, which allows matters to be discussed in private so that neither side feels pressured into a decision.

What happens if I decide not to mediate?

Either party may decide not to mediate, as it is a voluntary process. The mediator may also decide a case is not suitable for mediation. In that event, you will need a mediator-endorsed certificate before applying to court, which the family mediator will issue. With MIAM Direct, this is usually issued within 24 hours.

If you are applying to court, this must be done within four months of your MIAM. If your application is made after the four-month period, you will need to attend another MIAM.

If I decide to mediate, who will be the mediator?

MIAM Direct is part of We Mediate, which has been conducting family mediation for many years. If you would prefer your mediation to be conducted by a family mediator from We Mediate, please let us know.

How much is a MIAM?

Because we conduct all our MIAMs online or, in certain circumstances, over the phone, we are able to keep our fees competitive. Every MIAM is conducted by a family mediator accredited by the Family Mediation Council.

• Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.30pm: £130 (for later appointments please contact us)
• Saturday, 9.00am to 1.00pm: £150

We accept credit and debit card payments.

How quickly can I get an appointment and a court certificate?

Many clients are able to complete their MIAM the same day. Where you need a court certificate to make an application, MIAM Direct can usually issue it within 24 hours of your MIAM.