Most court applications require a MIAM certificate. Book online through our trusted digital service.
Book a MIAM →What Is a MIAM Certificate?
A MIAM certificate is a document issued by a qualified family mediator. It confirms that you have attended a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM), or that a mediator has assessed that mediation is not suitable in your case.
What is a MIAM certificate?
A MIAM certificate is used when making certain applications to the family court. It shows the court that mediation has been considered before proceedings begin.
Important: The certificate is not evidence of wrongdoing and does not mean mediation has failed.
When is a MIAM certificate required?
A MIAM certificate is usually required when applying to court about:
- Arrangements for children
- Financial matters following separation or divorce
The requirement applies in most family court applications unless an exemption applies.
MIAM certificates and court forms
When applying to the family court, people are often asked to complete specific court forms. In many cases, a MIAM certificate must be included with these forms to show that mediation has been considered before court proceedings begin.
Court forms and MIAM certificate requirements
The table below provides a simple overview of common family court forms and whether a MIAM certificate is usually required.
| Court form | What it's used for | Is a MIAM certificate usually required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| C100 | Applications about children (child arrangements, specific issues, prohibited steps) | Yes (unless an exemption applies) | MIAM certificate usually attached to confirm mediation has been considered |
| Form A | Financial applications following separation or divorce | Yes (unless an exemption applies) | Used for financial remedy proceedings |
| Form E | Financial disclosure | No | Often follows a MIAM requirement in related applications |
| D81 | Statement of information for consent orders | No | Usually used after agreement has been reached |
Whether a MIAM certificate is required depends on the type of application and the circumstances of the case. A qualified family mediator can confirm what applies to your situation.
Common court forms that usually require a MIAM certificate
Different forms are used depending on whether the application relates to children or finances. The following are some of the most common forms where a MIAM certificate is usually required, unless an exemption applies.
C100 — Applications about children
The C100 form is used when applying to the court about matters involving children. This can include applications relating to:
- Child arrangements
- Specific issues
- Prohibited steps
Before submitting a C100 form, a MIAM certificate is usually required to confirm that mediation has been considered.
Form A — Applications about finances
Form A is used when applying to the court about financial matters following separation or divorce. This can include issues relating to property, pensions, or other financial arrangements.
A MIAM certificate is usually required before submitting Form A, unless an exemption applies.
Other forms you may come across
Other documents are commonly used during family court proceedings, including:
- Form E, which relates to financial disclosure
- Form D81, which supports consent orders
These forms do not usually require a MIAM certificate themselves, but they are often part of a wider process where a MIAM requirement applies.
If you're unsure which form applies
Court forms can feel confusing, especially under time pressure. A qualified family mediator can explain:
- Whether a MIAM is required
- Whether an exemption may apply
- What the MIAM certificate is confirming for the court
You do not need to understand court forms in detail before attending a MIAM.
Related information
Who can issue a MIAM certificate?
Only a qualified family mediator can issue a MIAM certificate. The certificate is issued after:
- A MIAM has taken place, or
- The mediator has assessed that mediation is not suitable
Note: Solicitors and courts cannot issue MIAM certificates.
Does attending a MIAM mean I have to mediate?
No.
A MIAM is an information and assessment meeting. It explains mediation and allows the mediator to assess suitability. You are not required to continue with mediation after a MIAM.
What if mediation is not suitable?
If mediation is assessed as unsuitable, the mediator can issue a MIAM certificate. This allows you to proceed with a court application where appropriate.
How long is a MIAM certificate valid for?
A MIAM certificate is valid for a limited period. This means court applications must usually be made within a set timeframe after the certificate is issued.
What the MIAM certificate is not
- It is not a court judgment
- It does not decide outcomes
- It does not require agreement
- It does not replace legal advice
The role of mediation before court
Mediation is encouraged because it can help people:
- Explore options without court proceedings
- Reduce conflict
- Maintain greater control over decisions
Court remains available where mediation is not suitable or agreement cannot be reached.
Common questions
Can I apply to court without a MIAM certificate?
In most family court applications, a MIAM certificate is required unless an exemption applies. The court may not process an application without one.
Can I get a MIAM certificate online?
Yes. MIAMs can be conducted online, and certificates can be issued following an online meeting with a qualified mediator.
What if the other person won't attend?
If the other person does not engage with mediation, the mediator can still issue a certificate confirming that mediation was considered and assessed as not suitable to proceed.
What are the next steps?
Option 1
Learn what a MIAM involves
Option 2
Check whether an exemption applies
Option 3
Attend a MIAM to clarify your options
When you're ready
If you decide you would like to attend a MIAM, you can book online through our trusted digital service.
Book a MIAM onlineDelivered by qualified family mediators in line with UK mediation standards.
Understanding what a MIAM certificate is can help you feel more prepared.
Knowing your options is a positive step forward.