You may have heard or been told to attend a MIAM or that you need a C100 certificate. At the MIAM you will see the mediator on your own (although you can bring someone for support if you wish).
The process of mediation and how mediation works will be explained. You will be able to discuss your situation, what happens next and what is expected of you. This meeting is also for everyone to assess whether mediation is appropriate.
Once both parties have attended a MIAM and everyone agrees that mediation is suitable , a joint session will be arranged.
This would have been discussed in your MIAM. These are joint sessions where you and your ex-partner or family member will meet with the mediator.
The number of sessions that are required is dependant on many things. However, it is estimated for Child Only cases it may require 1-3 meetings and for Property and Finance or All Issues ( both children and finance) 2-4 meetings.
The mediator is not able to give financial or legal advice you can seek professional advice at anytime. Remember mediation is voluntary it can be stopped at anytime
When individuals are in conflict it is hard to see how the outcome can be positive, however, if you commit to the mediation process, some resolution can be found.
Often separating or divorcing couples want documentation that summarises the agreements that have been reached in mediation. Towards the end of mediation, the following documents can be prepared.
For financial matters, a Summary of Financial Information will be prepared if financial issues have been resolved. This is an "open" document which means that it is a factual summary of the financial situation. This statement can be used in any financial application in court.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is a document created by the mediator that summarises all the proposals made.
Obtain a Financial Consent Order when divorcing to ensure financial separation is Legal recognised.
For Child Arrangements, a parenting agreement can be drafted.
Although these documents are not legally binding they can used to obtain a legal order through the court.
These documents can be used to support communication and actions moving forward. However, if agreements can not be reached and a decision has been made to stop mediation then the appropriate court forms (C100/Form A) can be signed to support an application to court.