MIAM
What is a MIAM?
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Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting
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If you are struggling to find a solution with a family member you may need help in order to move forward. A MIAM is the first step to getting that help. You (and the other party) need to attend a MIAM before mediation can begin. You attend a MIAM individually - not together.
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At the MIAM both parties will
a) receive information about what mediation is like in principal and in practice
b) give the mediator information about what issues need to be resolved.
c) assess with the mediator whether mediation is suitable.
Many people instantly think they need to go to court and have a judge decide what should happen.​​​
You can go to court, but they require you to attend a MIAM. They also want proof that you have attended a MIAM delivered by a fully accredited family mediator.
After the first party has attended a MIAM we will then invite the second party to attend a MIAM too. If the second party is not invited then the court needs to know why. Once a MIAM has taken place (by either party), a mediator can sign the relevant page of your court form if you or the mediator assess mediation to be unsuitable.
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The reason the courts want you to attend a MIAM is a) they don't want to be burdened with family disagreements and b) they recognise the benefit for children of families resolving matters between themselves and away from court.
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At a MIAM you will also receive information about other dispute resolution options.​
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