There are 15 exemptions to the requirement to attend a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) in family court. These exemptions are as follows:
- Domestic abuse
- No available mediators within 15 miles
- An urgent hearing is required
- Both parties live abroad
- There is already an ongoing linked case at court
- Concerns of child safety
- The applicant or respondent is a child
- The applicant or respondent has a disability that prevents mediation from taking place
- The applicant or respondent is in prison
- The applicant or respondent is subject to bail conditions that prevent them from attending mediation
- The applicant or respondent does not have any contact details for the other party
- The application is without notice
- There is a risk to life or your home
- There is a risk that a delay would cause harm to a child or potentially allow an abduction to take place
- There is a risk that justice could not be done
If you believe you are exempt from attending a MIAM, you can apply to the courts via a C100 form.
