Mediation Information and
Assessment Meetings (MIAM)
Who should attend a MIAM?
Anyone thinking about using mediation as a way of resolving disputes following a relationship breakdown, separation or divorce would benefit from attending a MIAM.
If you are considering making an application to Court in respect of a financial dispute or arrangements for your children it is a requirement that you attend a Mediation Info & Assessment Meeting before making your application. There are a number of exemptions to this that the mediator, your solicitor or the Court can explain in more detail.
What Happens in a Mediation Info
& Assessment Meeting
The Mediator will explain how mediation works and whether it is appropriate. Other dispute resolution options will also be considered, such as collaborative law or arbitration. You will be asked to provide enough information that will enable an assessment to be made as to whether mediation is suitable in your circumstances.
This assessment is generally made once you have both been seen. In some cases it might be more suitable for you to use one of the other dispute resolution options such as solicitor negotiation or the Court, in which case this will be discussed with you.
What Happens Next?
- If you are the person wishing to make an application to Court and require the requisite Court form, you must first attend a Mediation Info & Assessment Meeting.
- The Mediator will then contact your former partner and invite them to a similar information and assessment meeting.
- If your partner is not willing to attend a MIAM at all, or discuss mediation or if mediation is unsuitable in your circumstances, you will be provided with a signed FM1, C100 or Form A which will enable you to proceed to Court should you wish to do so.
- If you both wish to attend mediation, a first meeting will be arranged on a date and time to suit you both.