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What is a MIAM?

A MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) is the initial meeting with a mediator to find out about mediation. This can be about child arrangements or financial matters. It is required before you can make an application to go to court

The mediator will talk to you about what mediation is, what options you have, and help you decide if mediation is right for you.

If you choose to mediate, the mediator will help you and your ex-partner communicate and reach an agreement that works for both of you. Mediation is voluntary, so you can stop at any time.

Why Mediation?

Mediation is a way to solve problems with the help of a mediator, who are a neutral third party. The mediator helps you and the other person involved in the dispute to communicate and come up with a solution that works for both of you. Mediation is voluntary, confidential, less expensive and more time-efficient than going to court.

Here are some of the benefits of mediation:

• It can help you resolve your dispute more quickly and cheaply than going to court.
• It can help you maintain a good relationship with the other person involved, which is important if you have to continue to interact with them, such as if you have children together.
• It can give you a sense of control over the outcome of your dispute.
• It can help you reach an agreement that is tailored to your specific needs.

Attending a MIAM will start the mediation process. Sometimes, mediation isn’t suitable or the other party does not want to attend mediation. If you would like to go down the court route, you still need to attend a MIAM by law. Find out more about a C100 here or Form A here.

Where can I attend my MIAM?

We try to make the mediation process as easy as possible, as we know family disputes can be stressful. That’s why we offer face-to-face appointments from our office at Hartlepool or at St Mary’s centre in Middlesbrough. We also offer appointments via video call (we use Zoom) so you can mediate wherever you feel most comfortable.

What happens at a MIAM?

The Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) will last for approximately one hour. During this time, you will have the opportunity to tell the mediator about your situation and the issues that need to be resolved. The mediator will listen and then explain the mediation process and other options for reaching agreements.

At the end of the meeting, the mediator will assess whether your case is suitable for mediation. You will then be able to decide whether you want to proceed with mediation or explore another option for resolving the issues, such as making an application to the court to let them decide. The mediator can also provide you with information about other services that can offer help and support.