A MIAM is usually the first step before applying to family court. Book online through our trusted digital service.
Book a MIAM →How Much Does a MIAM Cost?
MIAM fees vary by provider, but most people pay between £95 and £150 for the initial appointment. Here is what affects the cost — and what help is available if you cannot afford it.
Key Points
- Most MIAMs cost between £95 and £150 per person.
- There is no fixed national rate — each mediator sets their own fee.
- Legal aid may cover the full cost if you meet the financial eligibility criteria.
- The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme (up to £500) covers mediation sessions — not the MIAM itself.
- Each person pays for their own MIAM separately.
- Some community and charity-funded mediation services offer subsidised or free MIAMs.
This page covers the cost of the MIAM appointment specifically. For information on the cost of full mediation sessions, see: Cost of Family Mediation.
What Does a MIAM Typically Cost?
There is no fixed national rate for a MIAM. Each mediator or mediation service sets its own fee. The cost reflects the mediator's time — typically 45 minutes to one hour — plus any administration involved in issuing the FM1 certificate.
As a general guide, fees in England and Wales typically fall into these ranges:
- £95–£120: lower end, often regional providers outside London.
- £130–£150: typical mid-range fee across England and Wales.
- £175 or more: higher end, often central London or specialist services.
Important: The MIAM fee covers your individual appointment only. It does not include any joint mediation sessions that may follow.
Does Each Person Pay Separately?
Yes. Because you and the other person attend separate MIAM appointments, you each pay for your own. There is no shared fee for the initial meeting.
Example: If the MIAM fee is £120 per person, you pay £120 and the other person pays £120 — two separate transactions with the same mediator.
If you later proceed to joint mediation sessions, those costs are usually shared between both parties. The exact arrangement depends on the provider and your circumstances.
Can I Get a Free MIAM Through Legal Aid?
Yes. If you meet the financial eligibility criteria for legal aid, you may be entitled to a free MIAM. Legal aid for mediation is means-tested — it depends on your income, capital, and whether you receive certain benefits.
You may qualify for legal aid if you receive income-related benefits such as Universal Credit, Income Support, or Employment and Support Allowance, or if your gross monthly income and capital fall below the relevant thresholds.
Not all mediators are legal aid providers. When searching for a mediator, look for one registered with the Legal Aid Agency (LAA) if legal aid is relevant to you.
Key point: Even if the other person is not eligible for legal aid, you may still be. Eligibility is assessed individually. It is always worth checking before assuming you do not qualify.
What About the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme?
The government's Family Mediation Voucher Scheme provides up to £500 towards the cost of mediation where at least one child is involved. The voucher is applied directly by the mediator — you do not need to claim it yourself.
The voucher scheme applies to mediation sessions — not the MIAM appointment itself. However, if you are eligible, the savings on joint sessions can be significant, and the MIAM fee is usually a much smaller proportion of the overall cost.
Note: Voucher scheme eligibility and availability can change. Ask the mediator when you first make contact whether the scheme is currently available through their service.
What If You Cannot Afford a MIAM?
Cost should not prevent you from obtaining a MIAM certificate if you need one for court. There are several options available:
- Check legal aid eligibility — this is the most significant form of help available and can cover the full cost.
- Ask mediators about reduced fees — some providers offer sliding-scale pricing or discounts in cases of financial hardship.
- Look for community or charity-supported services — some organisations offer subsidised MIAMs, particularly in areas with higher levels of legal aid provision.
When you first contact a mediator, it is completely appropriate to ask about cost and what options are available before committing to a booking.
Next Steps: Arranging Your MIAM
Once you have a sense of the likely cost — and whether legal aid or another form of support might apply — the next step is to contact an FMC-accredited mediator directly.
When you make contact, mention your financial situation if relevant. Legal aid providers are used to these enquiries and can usually confirm eligibility quickly — before you commit to a booking.
If cost is a concern, raising it at the point of enquiry is always the right approach. Many providers have options available that are not prominently advertised.
How to Book a MIAM — including legal aid optionsFrequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common questions
Have more questions about MIAMs, mediation, or the court process? Our FAQ page provides quick answers to the most common queries.
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When you are ready to book your MIAM, online appointments are available through qualified, accredited mediators. Legal aid enquiries are welcome at the point of booking.
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Many people start by learning, not deciding. That is completely okay.
Understanding the cost of a MIAM can help you plan with confidence.
Financial help is available for many people. If cost is a concern, it is always worth asking — most mediators will do what they can to help.