FAQ

What is a MIAM?

A MIAM is a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting and is the first meeting you will have with a mediator (usually just you and the mediator).  At the MIAM, the mediator will hear from you about your circumstances and discuss what options are available to you (including g explain what mediation is and how the process works).  You will be given an opportunity to ask any questions you have and the mediator will help you to consider and decide whether mediation is right and safe for you.

You can find out more about MIAMs here.

Do I need to attend a MIAM?

If you want to take your case to Court, in most cases (unless you have made an allegation of domestic abuse and have specific evidence in support of the allegation) you will be expected to attend a Meditation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before issuing your application at Court. 

Even if you are not contemplating making an application to Court, for anyone wanting to explore whether mediation is right for them, attending a MIAM is a really good place to start.

You can find out more about MIAMs here.

My ex-partner is abusive, is mediation right for me?

The key message for anyone who has experienced domestic abuse is that family mediation is a voluntary process and a joint session will only take place if you decide, with a mediator, that mediation is right and safe for you and where appropriate, the right safeguards are in place.  Attending a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) will enable you to discuss in detail with a mediator who is trained, skilled and experienced in working with families where there has been domestic abuse whether mediation is right for you. Your safety, and the safety of your children will be any mediator’s main concern.

You can find out more about mediation and domestic abuse here.