MIAM

As you will have read on our Family & Divorce Mediation page, the courts have now decreed that from 6^th April 2011, separating couples will have to consider mediation to resolve any disputes over their property and financial affairs or issues concerning children before applying to the court (unless there are reasons for exemption such as domestic violence or child protection issues).

All couples are expected to attend a Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting, otherwise known as a MIAM. The meeting lasts about an hour and can be conducted separately if necessary.

The purpose of the meeting is to give you the information you need about the benefits of mediation over a court case, and also to assess you as to whether you are suitable candidates for the mediation process. We will also screen you for any domestic abuse or child protection issues.

You will be asked to explain what issues you are looking to resolve and we will also need a certain amount of information from you including name, address, income and capital.

Once you’ve attended the MIAM, you are given the opportunity to consider whether mediation is the right course of action for you. If it is, you will both attend a series of meetings to address the issues in dispute and at the conclusion of the mediation process the mediator will prepare a document called a ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ that records the agreement you both reach.

If you don’t wish to proceed with mediation and decide to start legal proceedings, you will be issued with form FM1 that will need to be presented to court by your solicitor. The matter can then proceed through the court system.

Fees

MIAM (Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting) – 1 hour

Separate appointment - £150.00 + VAT

Joint appointment - £275.00 + VAT

For more information on Global Mediation’s MIAM service, please contact us or request a callback by completing the form on the right.