How to Prepare for a MIAM
A MIAM is a short meeting with a mediator, and in most family court applications you need to attend one first. Here is who has to go, what it costs and what to do beforehand.
General information only. This is not legal advice.
A MIAM is a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting. It is a short meeting with a qualified mediator, where you are given information about mediation. The mediator also assesses whether mediation is suitable for your circumstances.
Why you may be asked to attend
Before applying to court for certain family orders, you are normally expected to attend a MIAM unless you have a valid exemption. The exemptions are set out in the Family Procedure Rules, Practice Direction 3A. If you think one may apply to you, read it before you book. Do not assume you have to go.
Who attends
The applicant must attend a MIAM or validly claim an exemption. The other party, the respondent, is expected to attend but can decline. If they decline, the applicant should still attend. You can attend together or separately, and your ex-partner does not have to be in the room.
What it costs
If neither of you qualifies for legal aid, each person pays about £120 for the MIAM, and the mediator agrees with you how the cost is met. If either of you qualifies for legal aid, the Legal Aid Agency covers the MIAM costs for both. The £500 family mediation voucher cannot be used for the MIAM. It only covers later mediation sessions.
If you think you may qualify for legal aid, ask the mediator before the meeting what information they need from you to check eligibility.
Before the meeting
Most providers ask you to complete an information form in advance. The mediator uses it to get your details and understand your situation before you meet, so the time is used well. Complete it fully and send it back before the date.
Ask the provider how the meeting will run. Many offer in person or remote meetings, so choose the one that suits you.
There is no official or professional source that sets out a list of documents to bring. Ask the provider what, if anything, they want you to have with you.
At the meeting
You explain your situation to the mediator. They explain how mediation works and whether it is suitable for you and your circumstances. It is an information and assessment meeting. It is not mediation itself, and you are not agreeing anything at it.
Sources
- GOV.UK, Family Mediation Voucher Scheme
- Family Procedure Rules, Practice Direction 3A
- Family Procedure Rules, Part 3
- Family Mediation Council, FMSB MIAM Guidance v3, February 2026
- Kingsley Napley, What to expect at a MIAM
- Resolution, MIAMs
Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal advice. Court processes, fees and rules can change. Check the latest guidance and speak to a qualified professional about your own circumstances.
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