Invitation to Mediation Letter: Free Template and What to Include

If you need to formally invite the other party to attempt family mediation before court, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong invitation to mediation should include.

What this letter needs to cover

• Invite the other party to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before any court application
• Reference the requirement to attend a MIAM before applying to court under the Children and Families Act 2014
• Propose suggested mediators or services
• Request a written response within 14 days

Why mediation is often the required first step

Before applying to court for most family matters — child arrangements, financial disputes on separation — you're generally required to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) first, except in specific circumstances like domestic abuse. Formally inviting the other party to mediation, even if you expect them to decline, creates an important record that you attempted this route.

What to include before you send it

• A clear invitation to attend mediation to resolve the specific issue
• Confirmation of your willingness to attend a MIAM
• A reasonable deadline for a response
• A note that you'll proceed to court if mediation isn't engaged with, where the exemption criteria allow this

What happens if the other party refuses

If they decline or don't respond, you can still generally proceed to attend a MIAM yourself and, if genuinely unable to mediate together, obtain the necessary certificate to proceed with a court application. Keep a clear record of this invitation and any response.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mediation compulsory in every family case?
Not always — certain exemptions apply, including cases involving domestic abuse or urgency, where you can generally proceed straight to court without attempting mediation first.

What if we can't agree even after mediation?
If mediation is unsuccessful, you'll receive a certificate confirming you've attempted it, allowing you to proceed with a court application if needed.

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Postcode]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Name]
[Address]
[Postcode]
[Date]

Dear [Name],

Subject: Invitation to family mediation about [Child's Name / our finances]

I would like us to try family mediation to resolve our disagreement about [e.g. arrangements for our children / dividing our finances].

Mediation is a confidential process where an independent mediator helps us reach an agreement without going to court. It is usually quicker, cheaper and less stressful.

Under the Children and Families Act 2014, before applying to court for most family matters, the person applying must usually attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). I am inviting you to attend one.

Suggested mediators:
• [Name of Service] – [Phone / Email / Website]
• [Name of Service] – [Phone / Email / Website]

Please reply in writing within 14 days to say whether you agree, and which service you prefer.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]