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What is a MIAM
A MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) is the initial meeting you and your partner must take to start your mediation journey. These sessions are a mandatory requirement by Law (except in exceptional circumstances) before any court application can be made through the UK courts. The session must be facilitated by an accredited mediator who can (where required) sign-off a court certificate. Together with your mediator you will explore the issues, discuss the mediation process and assess whether mediation is suitable.
When should I attend a MIAM
Mediation is often most effective when it takes place at an early stage, before issues have snowballed. It's best to go to mediation when both you and your partner have come to terms with the separation and need help sorting out arrangements. Even if you've been separated for a while and are midway through the court process you can still opt to go down the mediation route.
Before issuing a court application, you must attend a MIAM. Certain exemptions apply in extreme situations including domestic violence and child safeguarding concerns.
What happens during the MIAM
Your mediator will prepare and host the MIAM. In this session (which can be held in-person or over a video call) you will be provided with key information about the process and it is an opportunity for the mediator to evaluate whether your case is suitable for mediation. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions relating to the mediation pathway.
In cases where there is evidence of domestic violence of safeguarding concerns relating to children, the mediator will clarify that mediation is not suitable and the case should be referred to court.
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What happens after a MIAM
After each party has had their MIAM, and if they are both in agreement, the mediator will schedule a future appointment for the first mediation session. This is known as the Joint Mediation. In cases where there is a high conflict situation, clients can opt for shuttle mediation where the mediator will go between both clients during the session to avoid clients being in the same room/video call at the same time.
If neither party can agree to proceed with mediation after the MIAM, or if the other party does not wish to engage in the MIAM process, or if the mediator deems mediation not to be suitable in your case, the mediator will provide you with the appropriate signed court form. This will provide evidence to the court you have attempted mediation and will allow you to proceed with a court application
Read our blog on essential information about a MIAM, click here.
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MIAM FAQs
Who can conduct a MIAM? A trained and qualified mediator that is accredited by the Family Mediation Council (FMC)
Where does the MIAM take place? Ark Mediation operate face-to-face and virtual MIAM's. Once you have made initial contact with our team and agreed to proceed, an initial meeting will be setup. Please see our Contact Us page for a list of locations we operate face-to-face sessions
Do both parties have to attend the same MIAM session? No, MIAMs are usually conducted individually. Each party attends separately so the mediator can assess whether mediation is appropriate and ensure both individuals feel comfortable
How long does a MIAM take? A MIAM typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. It is a one-off session where the mediator explains the process, answers your questions, and assesses whether mediation could work for your situation
What happens if my ex-partner refuses to attend a MIAM? If the other party refuses to attend, the mediator can issue a MIAM exemption certificate, allowing you to proceed with a court application. However, courts often encourage mediation, and refusing to engage without a valid reason could negatively impact a legal case
Can I bring a solicitor or a friend to a MIAM? MIAMs are usually one-on-one meetings with the mediator, so bringing a solicitor or friend is not normally allowed. However, if you have concerns, discuss them with the mediator in advance
Do I have to pay for a MIAM? Yes, a MIAM usually costs £130 per person