MIAM exemptions (when you do not have to attend mediation) at the family court in Lancashire
REVIEWED BY: Sean McNamara on 2026-09-02
How this works
If you are in danger: call 999 (or 101 for non-emergency police).
National Domestic Abuse Helpline (Refuge): 0808 2000 247, 24 hours, free —
https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
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email for court correspondence.
Before most children and finance applications the applicant must attend a MIAM — or show the court an exemption. You do not have to mediate with someone who has abused you.
The recognised exemptions include (evidence requirements vary — see the C100 notes):
- Domestic abuse — e.g. police caution or conviction, an existing or previous protective order, a medical report, a letter from a domestic abuse support service, referral to a MARAC, or social services involvement. Form FM1 evidences the exemption.
- Urgency — risk to a child's safety or welfare, or risk of unlawful removal, or risk to property.
- Previous MIAM — you attended one within the last 4 months.
- Existing mediation — you are already mediating with an FMC-accredited mediator.
- Practical impossibility — e.g. the respondent is in prison, has no contactable address, or is abroad in armed forces service.
The exemption is claimed on the C100 itself (part 3) and evidenced by form FM1 filed with the application. Courts can refuse an application where the exemption is not made out.
- Form: C100 / FM1 — gov.uk
- Fee: No fee to claim an exemption
- Where to file: Preston Combined Court Centre, The Law Courts, Openshaw Place, Ring Way, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 2LL
- Our full guide to Preston Combined Court Centre
What happens after you file
1. Tick the exemption box on C100 (part 3) that applies to you. 2. Complete form FM1 and attach the supporting evidence you have. 3. File both with the application — the court checks the exemption at issue.
Getting help in Lancashire
- Support services in Lancashire
- Finding a solicitor near Lancashire
- Finding a mediator near Lancashire
Related guides
General information only — not legal advice. Confirm current fees and charges on the gov.uk pages before filing. Source: gov.uk, HMCTS court data.
Content verified against the official HMCTS court directory, gov.uk forms and fees pages, and the professional body registers (SRA, FMC, Bar Council). Last reviewed September 2026.