Frequently asked questions

A MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) is an initial meeting with an accredited family mediator. It gives you an opportunity to understand how mediation works, discuss your circumstances privately and consider whether mediation is suitable for you. A MIAM is attended separately by each person.

In most family court cases involving children or financial matters, you will normally need to attend a MIAM before making an application to court. There are some circumstances where a MIAM may not be required, where certain exemptions apply.

Your MIAM is a private meeting with the mediator. You can talk about what has happened, what you are hoping to resolve and any concerns you may have about mediation. The mediator will explain the mediation process, answer your questions and assess whether mediation is suitable and safe for you. You are not expected to negotiate or reach an agreement at the MIAM.

Yes. MIAMs are held separately, so you do not attend the same meeting as your former partner. You can speak openly and privately with the mediator before deciding whether mediation is appropriate.

You can still attend your own MIAM. The mediator can explain the options available to you and, where appropriate, invite your former partner to take part in mediation. If they choose not to participate, the mediator can explain what this means for your situation, including any implications if you decide to make a court application.

Family mediation is a structured process in which an independent, professionally trained mediator helps separating or separated couples reach their own decisions about issues such as children, finances and property. The mediator does not make decisions for you. Instead, they help you communicate, identify the issues and work towards agreements that work for your family.

Mediation begins with each person having an individual MIAM. If mediation is suitable, you then attend a joint mediation session. You can discuss the issues that need resolving, exchange relevant information and explore possible solutions. The mediator remains impartial and does not take sides. If you reach agreements, the mediator can help record what you have agreed.

Every family is different. Some matters can be resolved in one or two sessions, while more complex financial or child arrangements may require several sessions. Our joint mediation sessions last up to 90 minutes, allowing you to focus on the issues that need to be resolved. We will discuss the likely timescale with you at the beginning and keep the process focused.

There is no fixed number of sessions. The number depends on the issues involved, their complexity and how much progress you are able to make. Some couples reach agreement relatively quickly, while others need several sessions.

Yes. What you discuss in mediation is generally confidential within the mediation process, subject to important exceptions such as concerns about someone's safety or legal requirements. The mediator will explain confidentiality and its limits at the outset.

Yes. Our mediation sessions take place online via Zoom, making mediation accessible without the need to travel. Online mediation can be particularly convenient if you live in different areas, have work or childcare commitments, or simply feel more comfortable taking part from your own home.

No. Mediation can be arranged in different ways depending on your circumstances. Many people are comfortable meeting together, but separate or "shuttle" mediation may sometimes be appropriate. Your mediator will discuss what arrangement is likely to work best and safely for you.

Yes. Mediation can help separated parents make practical arrangements for their children, including where children will live, how they will spend time with each parent and how important decisions about their upbringing will be made. The focus is on finding arrangements that put the children's needs and welfare first.

Yes. These are common issues discussed in child arrangements mediation. Parents can explore different arrangements and consider what will work best for their children, taking account of their ages, routines, school, activities and individual needs.

Yes. Mediation can help parents agree practical arrangements around school, holidays and special occasions. This might include school runs, term-time arrangements, Christmas and birthdays, holidays abroad and how much notice should be given when making plans. The aim is to create arrangements that are realistic and reduce future disagreements.

Yes. Financial mediation can help separating couples work towards an agreement about their financial circumstances. This can include the family home, savings, investments, pensions, debts and ongoing financial support. Both people are required to provide full and honest financial information so that decisions can be made with a clear understanding of the family's financial position.

Yes. These are common issues in financial mediation. The mediator can help you explore the available options and consider what might be appropriate in your circumstances. Mediation does not decide how your assets should be divided; the decisions remain with you. You can take independent legal advice alongside the mediation process.

We aim to keep our fees straightforward and transparent. An individual MIAM is £100 and lasts up to an hour. A joint mediation session is £150 per person and lasts up to one and a half hours. We will explain the likely costs before you begin so that you can make an informed decision.

We are part of the Ministry of Justice mediation voucher scheme. If you wish to discuss child arrangements we can help you apply for a government voucher which provides £500 between you towards your mediation costs.