If you’re involved in a family law issue, there’s a good chance you’ll hear the term MIAM early on. Standing for Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting, it’s not just a formality — it’s often a legal requirement before court action can begin.

But not everyone needs to attend and there are valid reasons for being exempt. If you’re unsure where you stand, here’s a clear breakdown of who needs to go, what to expect and why it’s a critical step in resolving family disputes.

What Is a MIAM?

A MIAM is a one-to-one meeting with a qualified family mediator. Its purpose is to help you understand whether mediation could be a better alternative to going to court. It typically lasts about 45 minutes.

The mediator will explain:

• How mediation works
• Whether it could help in your specific situation
• What your other legal options might be
• How the next steps would work

This meeting is not a mediation session itself — it’s a way to assess suitability and give you clear guidance.

When Is a MIAM Required?

In England and Wales, attending a MIAM is usually compulsory before you can apply to the family court for certain orders, including:

• Child arrangement orders
• Specific issue or prohibited steps orders
• Financial orders following separation or divorce

The requirement applies regardless of whether you’re married, divorced or never married.

Who Has to Attend?

If you’re making a court application for any of the issues listed above, you’ll need to attend a MIAM first. The other person involved (your ex-partner, for example) will then be invited to attend their own MIAM. While the second person isn’t legally required to go, it’s often encouraged so that mediation can be explored properly.

When Can You Be Exempt?

Not everyone is required to attend. You may be exempt if:

• There has been domestic abuse and there is evidence to support this
• The matter is urgent—e.g. risk of harm to a child or person
• You’ve already attended a MIAM in the last four months
• You’re applying for a consent order, where everything is already agreed
• The other party is already involved in ongoing family court proceedings

To claim an exemption, you’ll need to provide appropriate documentation.

What If You’re Not Sure Whether You Need to Attend?

If you’re unclear, it’s usually best to book a MIAM anyway. A trained mediator will confirm whether your case qualifies for an exemption. It also gives you a chance to understand your legal position and what other routes are available.

How Is a MIAM Different from Mediation?

This is a common point of confusion. A MIAM is not a negotiation or joint session — it’s a private, individual meeting to help you understand your options. If both parties are open to mediation, further sessions can be arranged separately.

If mediation isn’t suitable or the other party refuses to engage, the mediator will provide a signed form (usually an FM1 or part of your C100 or Form A), which you’ll need to proceed to court.

Can MIAMs Be Done Remotely?

Yes. MIAMs can be done via video call, which is ideal if the parties are in different locations or want to avoid face-to-face contact. This flexibility has made the process more accessible.

Is a MIAM Confidential?

Yes, with some exceptions. What you say in a MIAM is private and confidential, except in cases involving risk of harm, child safeguarding issues or criminal matters.

What Happens If Only One Person Attends?

If you attend and the other party refuses or ignores the invitation, you can still proceed. The mediator can sign the relevant form so your court application is not delayed.

Why Is a MIAM Useful, Even If You Think You’ll End Up in Court?

Even if court feels inevitable, a MIAM can help you:

• Clarify what mediation can offer
• Reduce the time, cost and stress involved in a court case
• Get expert input before committing to legal action
• Explore less adversarial options for resolving conflict

It’s a practical first step that gives you a fuller picture of your choices.

Final Thoughts: Know Where You Stand Before You Apply

A MIAM isn’t just another hoop to jump through. It’s a useful step that can help you avoid court, save time and money and reach more constructive agreements. But even if mediation isn’t right for your case, attending a MIAM gives you the clearance to proceed legally.

At Family Law Mediation, we offer MIAMs across the UK both online and in person. If you’re unsure whether you need to attend or you’re looking to book one quickly, we can help you get started.

Please email us at hello@familylawmediation.co.uk or call 0116 4422 989 to book your free consultation. You can also reach out via our contact form today. Let us take care of the rest so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.