Skip to content
Take the first step towards resolving your family problems.
Having a one to one information meeting, which are also known as Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting (MIAM), is the first step to take if you have separated and are thinking about coming to family mediation to resolve the issues you need to deal with. Our mediators listen to your concerns and hear what you hope to achieve so that together we can work out which is the best way forward for you and your family.
There are several possible of ways of negotiating a solution to family problems, including child custody mediation, family mediation, collaborative law, solicitor assisted negotiation, DIY, arbitration and going through court.
How do MIAMs work?
In our information meetings, we explain all of your options so that you know what to expect from each of them. We will help you to understand why a particular option may be better for you than others so that you can choose the right one for you.
Who has to attend?
We recommend that both you and your partner attend an individual one-to-one MIAM to talk about the issues that you have and the steps you can take to resolve them.
How can a MIAM help me?
A MIAM can be the first step to help you have more of an active part in the outcome of separation, divorce or dispute as it takes the decision away from the Court. By resolving the issue without Court proceedings, you will also find that it is significantly cheaper and can lead to more mutual decisions when it comes to child custody or finances.
A recent MIAM client said:
“I had no real idea what to expect from a MIAM meeting when starting a complicated divorce. Whilst emotions are high and the world of family law feels completely ambiguous this step forward was the most pivotal point in my life and provided me with quality information so I could make an informed choice about the best option for me to resolve disputes to drive forward my life in the right direction.
The professionalism and empathy to my situation helped me make the choices and decisions for myself about my future. I felt safe and listened to, there was a warm, flexible and kind approach to my situation coupled with professional boundaries and a clear grasp of the legal and procedural framework of family law.
Whilst I appreciate people are apprehensive at first about the process and attending a MIAM I would offer my experienced assurance that this is the right step to enable you to make the right decisions to move forward.”
How much does a meeting cost?
Our information meetings are charged at a fixed fee of £160 per person inc. VAT. For more information or to make an appointment contact our family team in Newcastle or South Shields by email to louise.law@davidgray.co.uk or on 0191 243 8163.
If you wish to refer yourself to a mediator or are a solicitor wishing to refer a client into mediation please complete and return this form.
