MIAM

(Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting)

In simple terms

A MIAM is a meeting with a mediator that usually takes place before starting a Family Court case.

It helps parents explore whether their dispute could be resolved without going through court proceedings.

  • A MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) is a meeting with a trained family mediator.

    It is usually the first step before applying to the Family Court in disputes about children or finances.

    The purpose of the meeting is to explore whether mediation could help parents resolve their disagreement without going to court.

    MIAM stands for Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting.

  • The Family Court encourages parents to try to resolve disputes without going through a full court process where possible.

    Mediation can sometimes help parents reach agreements about issues such as:

    • where a child lives

    • how much time a child spends with each parent

    • holiday arrangements

    • communication between parents.

    Because of this, parents are usually expected to attend a MIAM before submitting a C100 application to the court.

  • A MIAM is usually a private meeting with a mediator, rather than a meeting with both parents together.

    During the meeting, the mediator will:

    • explain how mediation works

    • discuss the issues you are facing

    • assess whether mediation might be suitable

    • explain other possible ways of resolving the dispute.

    The meeting is designed to help parents understand their options before starting court proceedings.

  • No.

    Attending a MIAM does not mean you are required to continue with mediation.

    The meeting is simply an opportunity to explore whether mediation could work in your situation.

    If mediation is not appropriate, or if one parent does not wish to proceed, the mediator can confirm this so that a court application can still be made.

  • Yes.

    There are some situations where attending a MIAM may not be required before applying to the Family Court.

    These are known as MIAM exemptions.

    Common exemptions include cases involving:

    • domestic abuse

    • urgent applications

    • child protection concerns

    • situations where the other parent cannot be contacted.

    If an exemption applies, this can be explained on the C100 application form.

  • A MIAM usually lasts around 45 minutes to an hour.

    It is a confidential meeting between you and the mediator.

Related links

C100