The Central Family Court in London is a Designated Family Court handling a full range of family law matters including High Court family proceedings, divorce applications, and financial remedy proceedings. As one of London’s principal family courts, it deals with complex cases requiring High Court-level judicial expertise, alongside standard divorce and financial settlement matters. The court serves families across the capital requiring resolution of matrimonial disputes, financial arrangements following relationship breakdown, and other family law issues. Parties involved in High Court family cases or seeking financial orders may have their matters heard at this venue, subject to court allocation procedures.
Services handled at this court
Accessibility
Full access; Hearing loop
How to get there
Central Family Court is located at First Avenue House, 42-49 High Holborn, London, WC1V 6NP.
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Frequently asked questions
- What family law matters does Central Family Court deal with?
- Central Family Court is a Designated Family Court handling High Court, Divorce and Financial Remedy. Not all family cases are dealt with at every court — if you are unsure whether your case will be heard here, check your court documents or contact the court directly on 020 7421 8600. Find out more about [what happens at a family court hearing](/legal-process/court-hearing/).
- Do I need a solicitor for a hearing at Central Family Court?
- For the types of cases heard at Central Family Court — including High Court and Financial Remedy — legal representation is strongly recommended. These proceedings can have long-lasting financial and personal consequences, and costs orders can be made against unrepresented parties. [Find out whether you need a solicitor](/legal-process/do-i-need-solicitor/) or [search our solicitor directory](/legal-process/find-solicitor/) for a specialist in London. You may also qualify for [legal aid](/legal-process/legal-aid/).
- What should I bring to my hearing at Central Family Court?
- Bring photo ID, all court documents relating to your case, and copies for the judge and the other party. If you have filed any statements or evidence, bring your own copy too. Allow extra time when arriving at Central Family Court as security screening is in place at the entrance.
- How do I get in touch with Central Family Court?
- You can contact Central Family Court by telephone on 020 7421 8600 or by email using the address on this page. For questions about your hearing date or listing, ask specifically for the listings office. Do not attempt to contact the judge directly — all queries must go through the court office.
- What kinds of cases reach the High Court at Central Family Court?
- The High Court Family Division at Central Family Court handles the most serious and complex family cases — typically those involving very substantial assets, appeals from lower courts, international elements such as child abduction under the Hague Convention, or novel points of law. Most people going through divorce or children proceedings will not have their case heard at High Court level.