Understanding the Validity of a MIAM in Family Mediation | Family Mediation Choice

January 17, 2022

Family mediation is a popular alternative to resolving family disputes in the UK. It is a voluntary process that allows separating or divorcing couples to reach an agreement on issues such as childcare, property, and finance, with the help of a trained mediator. Before beginning the mediation process, the first step is to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM).

What is MIAM?

A MIAM is an initial meeting between the mediator and the parties involved in the dispute. The purpose of this meeting is to provide information about the mediation process and assess whether mediation is suitable for the situation at hand. One question that often arises is how long is a MIAM valid for?

Validity of a MIAM

A MIAM is valid for four months from the date of the meeting. This means that if a decision is made to proceed with mediation, it must start within four months of the MIAM date. If the parties involved do not agree to proceed with mediation, they may need to attend another MIAM if they wish to pursue mediation at a later date.

Advantages of a MIAM

Attending a MIAM has several advantages, including:

  1. Cost-effective: A MIAM is typically less expensive than going to court.
  2. Time-saving: Mediation is often a quicker process than going through the court system.
  3. Confidentiality: Mediation is a private process, which means that the discussions and outcomes are not made public.
  4. Control: The parties involved have control over the outcome, rather than a judge making a decision for them.

Conclusion

A MIAM is an essential part of the family mediation process, providing the parties involved with the necessary information and guidance to decide whether mediation is a suitable option for their situation. At Family Mediation Choice, we provide expert guidance and support throughout the mediation process, ensuring that the parties involved can reach an agreement that is fair and satisfactory for all parties involved.

In conclusion, if you are looking to resolve a family dispute through mediation, attending a MIAM is an important first step. Our team at Family Mediation Choice is here to help you through the process and ensure that you achieve the best possible outcome.