MIAMS in Surrey, Sussex and Online
Request a Free Callback
Submit your details, and we’ll arrange a free, no-obligation callback at a time to suit you.
What is a MIAM?
Before issuing court proceedings it is compulsory to attend a MIAM (Mediation Information Assessment Meeting).
A MIAM is designed to provide information about mediation and whether it is a suitable way for the parties to reach an agreement. Each party will be invited to attend a consultation (in-person or on-line) on their own and have an opportunity to inform the mediator about the issues they wish to resolve through mediation. Information will be provided as to what to expect from the mediation process and the mediator will assess if it is a case suitable for mediation based on the information given. If it is a suitable case for mediation and both parties agree to engage in mediation, a joint session will be arranged.
If it is not deemed to be a suitable case for mediation then we can arrange for the appropriate forms to be signed so that you or your solicitor can progress your court application. It is compulsory that you show the Court evidence that mediation has been discussed as a way of resolving issues before a court application is issued.
What happens at the assessment meeting?
At the MIAM you will meet with a specially qualified family mediator, and discuss your personal situation on a confidential basis. This is a one to one meeting.
The mediator will provide information about options available to you to resolve the issues around your separation and will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each option. The mediator will also ask questions and make an assessment to decide whether or not mediation is a suitable way forward for you in your own particular circumstances.
How long will a MIAM take?
The meeting usually lasts from 45 minutes to one hour depending on the matters in issue.
How much does a MIAM cost?
The cost is £120.00 per MIAM.
MIAMS and Legal Aid
Olive House Mediation is a private mediation service and does not offer legal aid.
If you do not qualify for public funding, there is a fee to be paid unless your former partner attends and is eligible for legal aid, in which case legal aid will pay for a MIAM for both of you.
What happens if I don’t attend a MIAM?
You cannot issue an application at court without attending a MIAM unless a specific exemption applies in your case. The court will check to see if any exemption claimed is valid.
What if the other party won’t attend a MIAM?
In these circumstances the mediator can arrange for a C100 or Form A court form to be signed to confirm that one party has attended a MIAM which will allow an application to be made to Court.
What if mediation is not suitable for my case?
If for any reason either of you chooses not to try mediation or if the mediator decides that mediation isn’t suitable for you, one of you can ask the court to get involved.
Fees
Compared to the costs involved in court proceedings, successful mediation can be a more economical solution to resolving conflict and help lead to more agreeable and sustainable outcomes.
About us
Our professionally-trained and highly-experienced staff are on-hand to help guide you through the most contentious of divorce and separation issues, helping to reduce the pressure and strain.
It is time...
Get in touch for more information