Help with Separation

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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.

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.

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. 

 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. 

 The Mediation Information Assessment Meeting usually lasts around 45 minutes. 

 You may be eligible for Legal Aid to cover the cost. If not, your local  mediation service will be able to advise you of their charges. You can find local mediators and services here on the Family Mediation Council website. 

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

Mediators are trained 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.

 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. 

You may also be eligible for the Mediation Voucher Scheme which will cover or contribute to the cost of mediation. For more information click here.

The Family Mediation Council website has explanations, video and useful resources explaining how mediation may be able to help you resolve issues about child care, money and separation.