Your first step towards exploring family mediation
You may have been told about a MIAM by a solicitor, the court or another professional, or you may have come across the term while considering making an application to the Family Court.
A Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) is a private, individual meeting with a family mediator. In many family court cases, you are expected to consider mediation and attend a MIAM before making an application to court, unless an exemption applies.
But a MIAM is more than a step before court.
It gives you the opportunity to talk privately about your circumstances, understand how family mediation works, consider whether it may be suitable and explore the options available to you.
A MIAM is not a mediation session, and the other person does not attend your meeting.
Mediation Assessment and Information Meeting (MIAM)
A PRIVATE CONVERSATION
Your MIAM is your opportunity to speak privately with your mediator about your circumstances and what has brought you to mediation.
Your mediator will listen, explain the mediation process and answer any questions you may have.
You will also have an opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have about taking part in mediation.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR OPTIONS
Mediation is not the right process for every family or every situation.
As part of your MIAM, your mediator will consider with you whether mediation may be safe and suitable in your circumstances.
Where mediation may be appropriate, you can discuss different ways of taking part, including online mediation and shuttle mediation, where participants remain separate.
Your mediator can also provide information about other options and services which may be relevant.
AFTER YOUR MIAM
Depending on your circumstances, you may:
Proceed with mediation - If mediation appears suitable and you would like to explore it, ERS Mediation can discuss the next steps with you.
Take some time to consider your options - You are welcome to take time to think about the information you have received before deciding what you would like to do.
Decide not to proceed with mediation Mediation is voluntary. Attending a MIAM does not commit you to taking part in mediation.
Require a court form - Where the relevant requirements are met, your mediator may be able to complete the mediator section of the appropriate court form following your MIAM.
NOT SURE WHETHER YOU NEED A MIAM?
If you have a question before booking, please contact ERS Mediation.