MIAM — Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting Guide

What is this?

A MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) is a short appointment with a trained family mediator to see whether mediation could help you and the other party reach agreement about child arrangements, finances, or other family‑law issues before you go to court.

What happens in practice?

1. Referral or self‑referral – You (or your solicitor, if you have one) contact an approved family‑mediation service and book a MIAM.

2. The meeting – Usually lasts 30‑60 minutes, held in person, by video call, or over the phone. The mediator will:

- Explain what mediation is and how it works.

- Ask about your situation to see if mediation is suitable (e.g., safety concerns, power imbalances).

- Discuss the mediation process, costs, and what you would need to prepare if you decide to go ahead.

3. Outcome – At the end the mediator will give you a MIAM certificate (Form FM1) stating either:

- That mediation is not suitable (and you can proceed to court), or

- That you have attended the meeting and chosen not to mediate (you still need the certificate to issue a court application).

The certificate is required when you file a C100 (child arrangements) or Form A (financial) application, unless you qualify for an exemption.

What do I need to do?

• Check if you need a MIAM – Most applications for child arrangements, specific issue, or prohibited steps orders, and financial remedy applications require a MIAM first.
• Book the meeting – Find an accredited mediator through the Family Mediation Council website, GOV.UK “Find a family mediator” tool, or a local advice agency.
• Prepare – Think about the issues you want to discuss, any safety concerns, and what you hope to achieve. You can bring a supporter (but not a legal representative) if you wish.
• Attend – Be honest and open; the mediator is there to assess suitability, not to take sides.
• Get the certificate – Keep the signed FM1 form safe; you’ll need to attach it to your court application.
• Know the exemptions – You may not need a MIAM if:

- There is evidence of domestic abuse (you can provide a police report, injunction, or a letter from a GP/social worker).

- The case is urgent (e.g., risk of significant harm to a child).

- The other party lives abroad and cannot attend.

- You have already attended a MIAM within the last 4 months for the same issue.

- Both parties agree to mediate and you have already started mediation.

If you think you qualify for an exemption, you can still attend a MIAM (it’s often helpful) or you can submit a Form FM1 with a note explaining why you believe you’re exempt; the court will decide.

Where can I find more help?

• GOV.UK – Family mediation: https://www.gov.uk/family-mediation
• Citizens Advice – Mediation information: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/family/mediation/
• Rights of Women – Family law guides: https://rightsofwomen.org.uk/get-information/family-law/
• Gingerbread – Support for single parents: https://www.gingerbread.org.uk/
• Family Mediation Council – Find a mediator: https://www.familymediationcouncil.org.uk/
• Local law centres or advice agencies – Often offer free or low‑cost help with completing forms and understanding the process.

Remember: this is general guidance only. For advice specific to your situation, speak to a solicitor, legal aid provider, or your local Citizens Advice.