Last updated: July 2026
by Jess Knauf, Director of Client Strategy at Mediate UK. Reviewed by Belinda Atkins, Managing Director, Family Legal Ltd, in line with our editorial standards. Information is current as of 23 July 2026.
Key Takeaways
- MIAM stands for Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting. It is a legal requirement before applying to court on most family matters in England and Wales.
- A MIAM must last at least 45 minutes and can only be carried out by an FMC accredited family mediator.
- You need a MIAM before submitting a C100 (child arrangements) or Form A (financial orders), unless an exemption applies.
- There are 15 exemptions to attending a MIAM, including evidence of domestic abuse and urgent child protection concerns.
- Attending is compulsory. Going on to use mediation afterwards is entirely your choice.
- At Mediate UK, 70% of clients who attend a MIAM go on to joint mediation, and 90% of those reach a full or partial agreement (see our published outcomes).
What is a MIAM?
A MIAM is a short, one-to-one meeting with an accredited family mediator that you must attend before applying to the family court about children or finances in England and Wales. It lasts at least 45 minutes, explains how mediation works, and checks whether your situation is suitable for it. Attending a MIAM is compulsory, but going on to use mediation afterwards is entirely your choice.
If you have been told you need a MIAM before you can apply to the family court, you are probably wondering what it actually is, what happens in the meeting, and whether you have to go. This guide answers all of that in plain English.
We cover what MIAM stands for, why the law requires one, the 15 exemptions, what your mediator will and will not do, how long the meeting takes, and what happens once it is over. Everything here is kept current for 2026 and reflects the FMC standards that every family mediator works to.
An accredited family mediator talks through what actually happens at a MIAM, start to finish.
What Does MIAM Mean?
MIAM stands for Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting. It is a meeting between you and a qualified family mediator, lasting at least 45 minutes, where you find out how mediation works and whether it could help you resolve matters without going to court.
The name describes the two halves of the meeting. The information part is the mediator explaining your options. The assessment part is the mediator checking whether mediation is safe and suitable for your situation. During a MIAM you will:
| 1. Learn about mediation and how it works | 2. Discuss your situation and what you want to achieve |
| 3. Explore whether mediation suits your case | 4. Understand all of your dispute resolution options |
| 5. Invite the other person to start mediation | 6. Show the court you have considered mediation |
The purpose of a MIAM is to give you information, not to pressure you into mediation. By the end of the meeting you will understand whether mediation could work for you, or whether court proceedings are the better route.
What Does MIAM Stand For?
MIAM stands for Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting. You will sometimes see it written as M.I.A.M., and mediators normally say it as a word rather than spelling out the letters. Whichever way it is written, it means the same appointment.
What Is a MIAM Meeting?
People often say “MIAM meeting”, which repeats the word meeting twice over, because the M at the end of MIAM already stands for meeting. It means the same thing. In practice it is a single appointment, usually held by video call, between you and one accredited mediator. The other person in your dispute is not there and does not hear what you say.
What Is MIAM Mediation?
“MIAM mediation” is a phrase people use for the whole process, but it is worth separating the two parts, because they are different things and only one of them is compulsory.
So every mediation starts with a MIAM, but not every MIAM leads to mediation. Roughly 70% of the people we see at a MIAM go on to joint sessions. The rest either resolve things another way or go to court. If you want the fuller picture of what the joint sessions involve, our guide to family mediation covers the whole process.
What Is a Divorce MIAM?
A divorce MIAM is the same meeting, just described by the situation that brought you to it. There is no separate type of MIAM for divorce, and no separate qualification for the mediator.
What does change is the subject matter. If you are divorcing and cannot agree on money or property, your MIAM will focus on the financial side, and the court form your mediator signs will be Form A rather than the C100. If children are also involved, one MIAM can cover both, and the mediator can sign whichever form you need.
Worth knowing: the divorce itself does not require a MIAM. Since the no-fault rules came in, ending the marriage is an administrative process. The MIAM requirement attaches to the disputes that come with it, meaning the finances and the arrangements for any children. Our guide to financial settlements explains how that side works.
“Many clients come to a MIAM expecting a box-ticking exercise, but leave feeling genuinely informed about their options. Even when mediation is not right for someone, the meeting helps them understand the process ahead and feel more prepared for it.”
Jess Knauf, Director of Client Strategy, Mediate UK
Why Do I Need to Attend a MIAM?
The Legal Requirement
Under Section 10(1) of the Children and Families Act 2014, attending a MIAM is compulsory before making most family court applications in England and Wales. Parliament introduced this because the family courts were overwhelmed with cases that could have been resolved through discussion and agreement.
The reasoning behind the requirement is straightforward:
- Court proceedings are expensive, slow and emotionally draining.
- Many family disputes are better resolved through negotiation.
- Parents who reach their own agreements are more likely to stick to them.
- Children benefit when their parents can communicate without court intervention.
The law does not require you to use mediation. It only requires you to consider it by attending a MIAM. After your meeting you are free to decide that mediation is not right for you and to proceed to court.
When Does the MIAM Requirement Apply?
You must attend a MIAM before applying to court for a child arrangements order (using the C100) or a financial order (using Form A). These cover:
Not sure whether the requirement applies to you? Our free Do I Need a MIAM checker takes you through a few short questions and tells you in about a minute. You can also read more in our guide to completing a C100 form and our Form A guide.
What Changed in April 2024?
In April 2024 the Family Procedure Rules were amended to put far more weight on resolving disputes away from court. The MIAM requirement itself did not disappear, but what the court expects of you afterwards changed.
- Form FM5 was introduced. Both parties now set out their position on non-court dispute resolution before the first hearing, so the court can see what each of you has and has not tried.
- The exemptions were reworded. Some now turn on whether you have taken part in any form of non-court dispute resolution in the last four months, rather than mediation specifically.
- There can be cost consequences. A party who unreasonably refuses to engage with non-court dispute resolution can be ordered to pay costs, even if they go on to win the point. Read more on whether refusing mediation looks bad in court.
- Judges can pause proceedings. A judge can adjourn your case at any stage to give mediation or another route a chance, without needing both parties to agree.
The practical effect is that treating the MIAM as a box to tick is riskier than it used to be. The court now sees a written record of your position on mediation before it sees anything else.
When Do You Not Need a MIAM?
Consent Orders
If you and your ex-partner have already agreed everything and simply need the court to make your agreement legally binding, you do not need a MIAM. This applies to consent orders for child arrangements, financial consent orders, and agreed variations to existing orders.
Enforcement Applications
If you already have a court order and need to enforce it because the other party is not complying, you do not need a MIAM.
The 15 MIAM Exemptions
There are 15 specific exemptions set out in the Family Procedure Rules that allow you to apply to court without attending a MIAM. They fall into four groups:
The four groups the 15 MIAM exemptions fall into.Important: if you claim an exemption, the court will check whether it was validly claimed. If it finds the exemption was not valid, it can direct you to attend a MIAM and adjourn your case, which causes delay.
“We always tell clients to be honest about exemptions. Claiming one that does not apply can delay your case significantly. If you are unsure whether you qualify, it is often quicker to simply attend a MIAM.”
Jess Knauf, Director of Client Strategy, Mediate UK
What Happens in a MIAM?
Your MIAM is carried out by an accredited family mediator who guides you through the whole process. Under the FMC MIAM Standards (August 2022), which every family mediator must follow, and the Updated Interim MIAM Guidance (July 2024), your mediator must cover several key areas.
The Information Your Mediator Will Provide
The mediation process:
- How mediation works and what to expect
- The different models of mediation available
- The potential benefits of mediation for your situation
The five principles of mediation:
- Voluntary: you cannot be forced to mediate.
- Impartial: the mediator does not take sides.
- Confidential: what is discussed stays confidential, with limited exceptions.
- Decision-making: you make all the decisions, not the mediator.
- Child-focused: children’s wishes can be heard where appropriate.
Other ways to resolve your dispute, including solicitor-led negotiation, collaborative law, arbitration, a private Financial Dispute Resolution (FDR), and court proceedings. You can read more in our guide to alternative dispute resolution.
Signposting to support services, such as legal advice providers, domestic abuse support, counselling, financial advisers and Citizens Advice.
The Information Your Mediator Will Ask For
To assess whether mediation is suitable, the mediator will ask about:
- Your name, address and contact details, and details of the other party
- Information about any children
- The issues you want to resolve, whether children, finances or property
- The background to your relationship and your current circumstances
- What you hope to achieve
- Any safeguarding concerns, including domestic abuse
- Whether you already have a solicitor
Screening for Domestic Abuse
Every MIAM includes screening for domestic abuse. This is a requirement under Practice Direction 3A of the Family Procedure Rules, and it is there to protect you. The mediator will ask questions to identify whether there has been, or is a risk of:
- Physical, sexual, emotional or psychological abuse
- Economic abuse or financial control
- Coercive or controlling behaviour
If domestic abuse is identified, the mediator will assess whether mediation can go ahead safely, or whether you should be signposted to other options. Even where mediation is not suitable, the mediator will make sure you have information about support services.
Is What I Say Kept Confidential?
Yes. Your MIAM is confidential. We do not share what was discussed, who was with you, or any details of your meeting with the other party. Any notes the mediator makes cannot be released either, and can only be disclosed by court order.
How Long Does a MIAM Take?
According to the FMC MIAM Standards, a MIAM must last at least 45 minutes. At Mediate UK our MIAMs are scheduled for 60 minutes, so there is plenty of time to explain the process fully, understand your situation, answer your questions and discuss next steps.
If a MIAM is shorter than 45 minutes, the mediator must record the reasons. This might happen if it becomes clear very early on that mediation is unsuitable because of serious safeguarding concerns.
Who Can Conduct a MIAM?
Only an accredited family mediator registered with the Family Mediation Council can conduct a MIAM. A solicitor cannot do it, and neither can a counsellor or a barrister, unless they also hold family mediation accreditation. If the person you see is not FMC registered, the court will not accept the form they sign.
At Mediate UK, our urgent MIAMs are carried out by accredited mediators or PPCs (Professional Practice Consultants), who are the most experienced family mediators. You can also search for a local mediator using the FMC’s Find a Mediator tool, or read about our mediators.
Can We Do Our MIAM Together?
No. Under current FMC guidance there is a strong presumption against holding MIAMs jointly. Each person should have their own separate MIAM appointment, which means both parties attend a MIAM, just not at the same time. This ensures that:
- You can speak freely without the other person present.
- The mediator can carry out proper safeguarding screening.
- There is no risk of one party influencing or controlling the other.
- You have space to consider your options without pressure.
Read more about why MIAMs are held separately.
Can I Do My MIAM Online?
Yes. Online MIAMs are widely available and are just as valid as in-person appointments. Many people find them more convenient because there is no travel time or cost, you can attend from home or work, appointments tend to be more flexible, and it can feel less intimidating.
At Mediate UK we offer online MIAMs by video call. You will need:
- A device with a camera and microphone, such as a laptop, tablet or phone
- A stable internet connection
- A private space where you will not be disturbed
Because our MIAMs are held online, you can attend from anywhere, including from abroad, as long as you have internet access. You can read more about online mediation.
How Much Does a MIAM Cost?
A MIAM is a paid appointment unless you qualify for legal aid. At Mediate UK a standard MIAM is £115 + VAT and an urgent MIAM, which includes an appointment within two working days, is £185 + VAT. Full details of what each one includes are on our book a MIAM page.
The MIAM fee is separate from the court application fee you pay later. As of July 2026, the court fee is £270 for a C100 child arrangements application and £321 for a Form A financial application. You can see more on our costs and payments page.
Can I Get Legal Aid for a MIAM?
Legal aid for family mediation is means-tested, so it depends on your income and capital rather than on the type of dispute or whether there has been abuse. If you qualify, the cost of your MIAM and your mediation sessions is covered, so you would not pay for them yourself. Mediate UK is a Legal Aid Agency contracted provider, so we can offer this directly. You can check whether you are eligible using our legal aid eligibility check. Even if you do not qualify yourself, if the other person does, your MIAM and first joint mediation session may still be covered.
What Is the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme?
The government’s Family Mediation Voucher Scheme provides up to £500 per family towards the cost of mediation. It is not means-tested and is available for cases that involve child arrangements. The voucher does not cover the MIAM itself, but it can go towards your joint mediation sessions.
What Happens After Your MIAM?
There are five possible outcomes from a MIAM:
Whichever route you take, the form the mediator signs is valid for four months, so it is worth thinking about timing before you book. Our guide to the MIAM certificate covers how the signed form works, when the clock starts, and what to do if yours has expired.
“In 2025, 70% of our clients who attended a MIAM went on to joint mediation, and 90% of those reached a full or partial agreement. Those numbers show that, for most families, mediation really does work as a way to settle matters without court.”
Jess Knauf, Director of Client Strategy, Mediate UK
These figures come from our own recorded case outcomes for 1 January to 31 December 2025, based on 948 joint mediation sessions, and are published in full on our mediation outcomes page. Find out what happens if the other party refuses mediation.
What Are the Benefits of Attending a MIAM?
Even if you feel certain you want to go to court, there is more in a MIAM than the signature at the end:
- It is a legal requirement, so you will need to do it at some point anyway.
- Mediation is faster, with most cases resolving in weeks rather than the months court proceedings can take.
- Mediation costs less, often a fraction of solicitor and court fees.
- It is less stressful, because you work through the issues together rather than against each other.
- Agreements tend to last longer, because both of you had a hand in shaping them.
- You keep control, rather than handing the decision to a judge.
Case study: Sarah and James
Sarah came to Mediate UK for a MIAM expecting to go straight to court. She and James had been arguing about arrangements for their two children for months, and she felt there was no realistic prospect of them ever agreeing. During her MIAM, the mediator explained how mediation could help them focus on what the children needed rather than on the disagreement itself. James attended his own MIAM and agreed to give it a try. Over three sessions they worked out a parenting plan that gave the children proper time with both parents. The whole process took six weeks and cost a fraction of what court would have done.
Which Court Form Will My Mediator Sign?
C100 Form
The C100 form is used for child arrangements applications. The mediator signs the relevant section to confirm you have attended a MIAM. See our guide to MIAMs and C100 applications.
Form A
Form A is used for financial order applications, and again the mediator signs to confirm MIAM attendance. See our guide to whether you need a MIAM before Form A.
FM1 Form
The FM1 form has mostly been replaced but is still used in some circumstances.
Common Myths About MIAMs
There is a lot of confusion about what a MIAM is and is not. Here are the most common myths, and the reality:
- Myth: a MIAM forces you into mediation. In reality, mediation is voluntary. A MIAM only asks you to consider it.
- Myth: a MIAM is a joint meeting with your ex. In reality, each person attends their own separate MIAM, so you are never in the room together.
- Myth: a MIAM is counselling or an attempt to reconcile you. In reality, it looks at practical issues such as children, finances and property, not the reasons your relationship ended.
- Myth: if you have experienced domestic abuse you still have to attend. In reality, domestic abuse is one of the recognised exemptions, so you may not need to attend at all.
- Myth: the mediator decides who is right. In reality, the mediator is impartial and does not take sides or make decisions for you.
What If the Judge Sends Me Back to Mediation?
Even after you have attended a MIAM and started court proceedings, a judge can adjourn your case and direct you to attempt mediation. This typically happens when:
- The judge believes mediation should have been tried.
- The case keeps returning to court.
- The issues could be resolved more quickly through mediation.
An adjournment for mediation is usually for 3 months. Even when directed by a judge, mediation remains voluntary. However, refusing to attempt it when asked by a judge may not reflect well on your position.
What Is Child Inclusive Mediation?
If your MIAM relates to parenting matters, your mediator will explain child inclusive mediation (CIM). This gives children the chance to share their wishes and feelings with a trained mediator, in a safe and confidential setting. That information can then be shared, with the child’s agreement, to help parents make decisions. Key points to know:
- Both parents must agree to child inclusive mediation.
- The child must want to take part.
- Protecting the child is the priority at all times.
- Children are never asked to make decisions or choose between their parents.
Summary
A MIAM, or Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting, is a legal requirement before making most family court applications in England and Wales. The meeting lasts at least 45 minutes, is held one-to-one with an accredited family mediator, and gives you information about mediation and the other ways to resolve family disputes. You will need one before applying for child arrangements (C100) or financial orders (Form A), unless one of the 15 exemptions applies.
Attending is compulsory. Mediating afterwards is not. With 70% of our MIAM clients going on to joint mediation, and 90% of those reaching a full or partial agreement, mediation is a proven way to resolve family disputes without the cost, delay and stress of court.
Frequently Asked Questions About MIAMs
Is a MIAM compulsory?
Yes. Attending a MIAM is a legal requirement under Section 10(1) of the Children and Families Act 2014 before making most family court applications. However, mediation itself is not compulsory. The MIAM simply makes sure you have considered your options.
What if my ex will not attend a MIAM?
You can still attend your own MIAM. If the other party refuses to attend or does not respond to our invitation, we can release your signed court form so you can proceed with your application.
Is a MIAM the same as counselling?
No. A MIAM provides information about mediation and assesses whether it is suitable. It does not look at why your relationship ended or try to reconcile you. It focuses on practical issues like children, finances and property.
Can my solicitor decide mediation is not suitable?
No. Only you or the mediator can decide whether mediation is suitable. Your solicitor can advise you, but the decision is yours.
What if I have a non-molestation order?
Having an injunction or non-molestation order does not automatically prevent mediation, but it may mean you qualify for an exemption from the MIAM requirement. Speak to us and we will advise on your specific situation.
What is a two-pronged approach?
A two-pronged approach is when you start mediation but also apply to court at the same time. That way, if mediation breaks down or the other party does not engage, you have not lost any time, because your court application is already in the system. Many clients find this gives them peace of mind while still giving mediation the best chance.
Can I get notes from my MIAM?
No. Mediation is confidential, and any notes the mediator makes cannot be released. They can only be disclosed by court order.
Does it matter who attends the MIAM first?
No. Either party can attend first, and you will usually see the same mediator throughout. If you both want to mediate, you can book your appointments at similar times.
Can I do a MIAM from abroad?
Yes. Mediate UK conducts online MIAMs, so you can attend from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection.
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Ready to Book Your MIAM?
Whether you want to explore mediation or simply need the signed form for court, our accredited family mediators are available for online appointments across England and Wales. Book a MIAM to get started, or arrange a free call if you would like to talk things through first.
Or call us today on 0330 999 0959.
Our Legal Partnerships
Mediate UK works closely with trusted legal professionals to ensure your agreements are legally robust. Our partners include
DFA Law LLP (agreements managed by SRA-regulated solicitor Rachel Adams, SRA 452750),
independent barristers at St Ives Chambers (including Charmian Jackson, registered with the Bar Standards Board),
and The Family Law Consultant (managed by SRA-regulated solicitor Rhiannon Compton, SRA 600560).
These legal professionals support our clients with consent orders, independent advice, and final barrister reviews.
About the Author
Jess Knauf is the Director of Client Strategy at Mediate UK and the primary author of our blogs and guides. With over six years of experience in family mediation settings, Jess has helped shape how Mediate UK supports families going through separation and divorce across England and Wales. She is a member of Resolution and a published author of The Divorce Guide 2026. Read Jess’ academic paper, Should Family Mediation Be Made Compulsory in All Cases?