MIAM

MIAM mediation with an accredited mediator

A Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting is the first step towards resolving a family dispute, and is usually required before you apply to court about children or finances.

What happens at a MIAM?

Your MIAM is a confidential, one-to-one meeting with an accredited mediator, lasting around 45 minutes to an hour. It can take place in person at our Plymouth office or online via Zoom, FaceTime or WhatsApp.

Your mediator will listen to your situation, explain how mediation and other options outside court could help, and check that mediation is safe and suitable for you and your children. There is no obligation to continue, and your former partner attends their own separate MIAM.

From MIAM to agreement

Your MIAM is the start of a simple path towards a lasting agreement for your family.

Step one is a free initial phone consultation, where we check whether you qualify for Legal Aid and arrange your MIAM.

Step two is your MIAM, a one-to-one meeting that explores your options and checks mediation is right for you.

Step three invites the other person to their own MIAM, and if you both agree, you move on to joint mediation sessions.

Step four is a written summary of what you have agreed or, if mediation is not suitable, a signed court form so you can apply to court.

Do I need a MIAM before going to court?

In most cases, yes. If you want to apply to the family court for a child arrangements order using a C100 form, or for a financial order using Form A, you will usually need to attend a MIAM first, and your mediator can then sign the relevant section of your form.

Some exemptions apply, for example where there is evidence of domestic abuse or the matter is urgent. Changes to the court rules in April 2024 tightened several exemptions and placed greater emphasis on trying to resolve disputes outside court, so it is worth speaking to us early. Considering divorce mediation? Your MIAM is where it begins.

How much does a MIAM cost?

If you qualify for Legal Aid, your MIAM is FREE, and the other person is also entitled to a free MIAM. The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme may also contribute up to £500 towards mediation about child arrangements, subject to eligibility. If you do not qualify, our fees are:

MIAM: £120 + VAT per person
MIAM certificate (C100 or Form A): £50 + VAT per form
Mediation Meeting: £120 + VAT per person per hour

* all prices are excluding VAT

MIAM FAQs

What does MIAM stand for?

MIAM stands for Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting. It is an initial meeting with an accredited mediator to explore whether mediation, or another way of resolving things outside court, could help with your dispute.

Is a MIAM compulsory?

Attending a MIAM is generally a legal requirement before applying to court about child arrangements or finances, unless an exemption applies. Mediation itself remains voluntary.

Can I have my MIAM online?

Yes. We hold MIAMs online via Zoom, FaceTime or WhatsApp for anyone in England and Wales, or in person at our Plymouth office.

Will my former partner be at my MIAM?

No. Should you wish to proceed, and if mediation is deemed a suitable means of resolution, your former partner will be invited to their own individual MIAM.

What if my former partner will not attend?

You can still attend your MIAM. If your former partner will not take part, or mediation is not suitable, your mediator can sign your court form so you can continue with your application.

How do I find out if I qualify for a free MIAM?

Call us free on 0800 669 6109 and we will check whether you are eligible for Legal Aid, which depends on your income and any benefits you receive.

Don't just take our word for it

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 14 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
    Matthew New 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. "I recently used First Steps Family Mediation and was incredibly impressed by their professionalism, efficiency, and care. The administration team made the entire process seamless, and communication was excellent from start to finish. I am particularly grateful for their ability to facilitate separate shuttle sessions, which ensured a completely safe, neutral, and comfortable environment throughout. I highly recommend their services to any parent navigating family mediation."
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Brenna Pearson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. So professional, helpful and kind. Thank you to Sam for all her help.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Lisa 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely amazing
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Jmicster 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service from Sam & her team, They are sharp, analytical, and highly skilled at keeping conversations productive. They saved us months of litigation and significant legal fees by helping us find a mutual resolution in just a few sessions. Exceptional professionals.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Gabriella Cordiner 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I didn’t think mediation would work but first steps were supportive and understanding of my children’s individual needs and helped us reach a better future. I recommend Sam and the team, we are so grateful for all your help.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Richard Baker 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Never thought I'd undertake mediation. But I'm glad I chose First Steps. At a stressful time in life, they were professional, supportive, helpful, and very knowledgeable. I never felt talked down to or made to be the bad guy. Would very much recommend them for anyone facing those difficult conversations. A neutral space to talk openly, and freely.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Tee J 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The management are very concerned about the clients experience - had a situation, she found a solution when she really didn’t have to and she made good on what was said to me - let’s hope the rest of the experience is to the same level

Thankyou for your professionalism
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Timothy Rumbelow 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Compassionate and caring - totally recomended!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Mark Steele 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If only the whole divorce procedure was as simple as dealing with First Steps.
Karen and Samantha at the Plymouth office were absolutely amazing, providing reassurance, empathy, professional advice and genuinely cared about me and the process I was going through.
I would whole heartedly recommend First Steps if you have any mediation requirements and add my thanks to them for everything that has been done by them.
  
 
  
  
 
    Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified that these reviews were published on First Steps Family Mediation's Google Business Profile. Learn more