UKDo I have to go to mediation before applying to court about the children?
Yes, in most cases you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to court about children, unless an exemption applies.
What the Law Says
The law requires parents and others involved in disputes about children to consider mediation before making a court application — unless specific exemptions apply.
Under the Children Act 1989, applications for 'section 8 orders' — such as child arrangements orders, prohibited steps orders, or specific issue orders — generally require attendance at a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) first.
A MIAM is a short meeting with a qualified mediator to explain how mediation works and assess whether it’s suitable for your case. It does not mean you must mediate — only that you explore it.
The requirement is procedural, not substantive: the court will not hear your application unless you have either attended a MIAM or qualify for an exemption.
Statutory Texts. 8: Orders with respect to children — (1) In this Act 'section 8 order' means— (a) a child arrangements order; (b) a prohibited steps order; (c) a specific issue order;
— Children Act 1989, s. 8 — Orders with respect to children
What to Do
Contact a certified family mediator to book a MIAM.
Attend the MIAM (usually takes under 1 hour).
Obtain a signed Form C100 (with MIAM certificate) if proceeding to court.
Check if you qualify for an exemption — e.g., domestic abuse, urgency, or incapacity.
Submit your application using Form C100 to the Family Court.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.