UK Family Mediation

    MIAM Guide: everything you need to know

    What a Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting is, when it's required, how much it costs, and how it fits alongside online mediation with GoMediation.ai.

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    What is a MIAM?

    A Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) is a short introductory meeting with an authorised family mediator. It explains what mediation is, how it works, and whether it's suitable for your situation. In England and Wales, a MIAM is a legal step you usually have to attend before you can apply to the family court for most private family matters — for example a financial consent order after divorce, or a Child Arrangements Order.

    When is a MIAM required?

    You only need a MIAM if you plan to apply to the family court. There are exemptions — for example where there has been domestic abuse, urgency, or bankruptcy — and you don't need a MIAM at all if you're happy to resolve things directly, whether by yourselves or through an online platform like GoMediation.ai.

    How much does a MIAM cost?

    A private MIAM typically costs between £90 and £150 per person. If either party qualifies for Legal Aid the MIAM is usually free. GoMediation.ai does not charge for or provide a formal MIAM — we help you reach agreement online first, which many couples find is all they need.

    How long does a MIAM take?

    MIAMs usually last 45–60 minutes and can be attended separately by each party. The mediator will ask about your situation, explain the options, and issue a signed MIAM certificate if you decide not to proceed to formal mediation.

    MIAM certificate & form C100/A

    If you go to court, you'll need a MIAM certificate signed by an authorised mediator. It's attached to Form C100 (child arrangements) or Form A (financial orders). The certificate lasts four months from the date of signing.

    How GoMediation.ai fits in

    GoMediation.ai is a neutral online tool for reaching agreement — not a substitute for a formal MIAM. Many couples use us to work out issues in a calm, structured way and then either apply directly for a Consent Order themselves or take a signed Memorandum of Understanding to a solicitor. If a court application later becomes necessary, you can attend a MIAM with an accredited family mediator at that point.

    Frequently asked questions

    Do I have to attend a MIAM to use GoMediation.ai?
    No. You can start using GoMediation.ai immediately. A MIAM is only relevant if you later decide to apply to the family court.
    Is GoMediation.ai a MIAM provider?
    No. We're an online dispute-resolution platform, not an accredited family mediation service. If you specifically need a MIAM certificate, you'll need to book one with an FMC-accredited mediator.
    Can I skip a MIAM if my ex-partner won't attend?
    Yes — if you can show the other party was invited but did not attend, the mediator can issue an exemption on your MIAM certificate.
    What if we reach agreement without a MIAM?
    If you've agreed everything through GoMediation.ai, you can download your signed Memorandum of Understanding and, for divorce finances, apply for a Consent Order (£62 HMCTS fee). You'll only need a MIAM if the court asks for one.

    Ready to try online mediation?

    You don't need a MIAM to begin. Start a private mediation room now — free to open, and only pay when both sides agree to mediate.