MEDIATION GUIDE
UK Mediation Guide
MIAM | Family Mediation | Alternative to Court | Updated 2025
Before making most family court applications, you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). This is a legal requirement with limited exceptions (such as domestic abuse, urgency, or previous MIAM within 4 months).
Why Choose Mediation?
Cost Effective
£1,000-£3,000 vs £10,000+ for courtFaster
Weeks vs months/years in courtControl
You decide outcomes, not a judgeConfidential
Discussions stay privateThe Mediation Process
1
MIAM
Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting - required before court applications 1 hour
2
Joint Sessions
Work through issues with the mediator present 1-2 hours each
3
Agreement
Reach a memorandum of understanding Varies
4
Legal Advice
Get independent legal advice on the agreement 1-2 hours
5
Consent Order
Convert agreement into legally binding court order 4-8 weeks
What Mediation Covers
- Division of assets and property
- Pension sharing arrangements
- Spousal maintenance
- Child arrangements (contact)
- Child maintenance
- Family home decisions
- Debt division
- Business assets
Not Suitable When
- Domestic abuse situations
- Where there's a power imbalance
- If one party is hiding assets
- Urgent matters needing immediate court orders
- Where one party refuses to engage
Mediation Costs
£100-£150
MIAM (each person)
£100-£200
Joint session (per hour)
£1,000-£3,000
Average total cost
Free if eligible
Legal aid MIAM
Free if eligible
Legal aid mediation
You may be eligible for legal aid to cover mediation costs if you receive certain benefits or have low income. Family mediators can assess your eligibility at the MIAM.
Ready to Start Mediation?
Prepare for mediation with our tools and resources.