What to expect
What actually happens in a MIAM
Your MIAM is a one-to-one meeting with your mediator, just the two of you, not your ex-partner. It typically lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, and gives you a confidential space to talk through your situation before any decisions are made about mediation.
You'll be asked about your circumstances: the nature of the separation, any children involved, and the issues you need to resolve, whether that's arrangements for children, property or finances. Your mediator will explain how mediation works, what it can and can't do, and answer any questions you have, with no pressure and no obligation to proceed.
Part of the meeting is also a safeguarding assessment. This means checking, sensitively and confidentially, whether mediation is safe and appropriate for your situation, including screening for any history of domestic abuse or safety concerns. This is standard practice for every MIAM and is there to protect you.
Flexible format
In person or online, whichever suits you
By video call
Most MIAMs are held over Zoom or a similar video call, from wherever is convenient and private for you. You'll receive a simple link beforehand, with no special software needed.
Face-to-face
If you'd prefer to meet in person, in-person appointments can be arranged. Either way, the meeting is private, unhurried and entirely confidential.
The process
Booking through to your MIAM
01
The call
You get in touch by phone, email or the contact form. Your mediator collects some general details through a short intake form, which also asks you to agree to the principles of mediation.
02
Your invitation
Once that's agreed, your mediator sends a Zoom video call link if you've chosen an online MIAM, or invites you to the office for a face-to-face meeting.
03
The meeting
Your mediator talks you through your circumstances, explains the mediation process, and carries out a safeguarding assessment, all in a private, unhurried, one-to-one conversation.
04
Your outcome
By the end, you'll know whether mediation is suitable for you and what the next steps look like, with no pressure to decide anything on the spot.
Your MIAM certificate
When is it issued?
After your MIAM, your mediator will approach the other person and try to arrange mediation between you both. The aim throughout is to see whether mediation is possible, not simply to obtain a certificate. A certificate is issued if mediation isn't suitable, the other person doesn't respond or declines to take part, or mediation breaks down. It's normally valid for four months from the date of your MIAM.
Issued if
The other person declines or doesn't respond, mediation isn't suitable, mediation comes to an end, or you decide not to continue after your MIAM.
Covers
Form C100 for child arrangements, Form A for financial remedy applications, or both, depending on your circumstances.
Ready to book your MIAM?
Get in touch and we'll arrange your meeting, in person or by video call, at a time that works for you.
Book a MIAM