Capitol Family Mediation Havering
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Grandparents and the Family Court in Havering
In England and Wales, grandparents play a vital role in family life, but they do not have an automatic legal right to see their grandchildren. This often comes as a shock when contact is suddenly stopped or severely limited following a parental separation or dispute in the Havering area.
If a voluntary arrangement cannot be reached, grandparents may need to turn to the Family Court as a last resort.
Speak to Capitol Family Mediation on 0208 719 0001 or click below to arrange a callback from our mediation experts.
When Grandparents May Go to Court
A grandparent can go to the Family Court primarily to ask for permission (known as Leave) to apply for a Child Arrangements Order (CAO).
Applying for Permission (Leave)
Unlike parents, grandparents must first seek the court’s permission to apply for an order specifying contact or residence. The court considers three main factors when deciding whether to grant permission:
- The Grandparent’s Connection: The court will assess the nature of the relationship between the grandparent and the child. If the grandparent has played a significant and meaningful role in the child’s life, permission is more likely to be granted.
- The Nature of the Application: The court looks at what the grandparent is asking for (e.g., weekly contact, holiday contact, or shared residence).
- Risk of Disruption: The court considers whether the application would be unduly disruptive to the child’s life to the extent that it would be harmful.
If permission is granted, the grandparent can then proceed with the substantive application.
Applying for a Child Arrangements Order (CAO)
If granted leave, the grandparent would apply for a CAO. When deciding this application, the court’s paramount consideration is the child’s welfare, based on the Welfare Checklist (e.g., the child’s needs, their wishes and feelings, and the capability of the applicant).
The CAO can order:
- Contact: Defining when the child spends time with the grandparent (direct contact) or communication arrangements (indirect contact, such as letters or video calls).
- Residence: In rare cases, where neither parent is deemed capable of caring for the child, the court may order that the child lives with the grandparent.
- Other Situations (Special Guardianship) – Grandparents may apply to the court for a Special Guardianship Order (SGO) if the child is already in the care of Havering Children’s Services or if the parents are unable to care for the child long-term. An SGO gives the grandparent enhanced Parental Responsibility and stability for the child.
Mandatory Mediation Requirement
Before a grandparent can apply to the Family Court (for leave to apply for a CAO), they are legally required to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) with a certified mediator, unless an exemption applies (e.g., proven domestic abuse or urgent safety issues). This compulsory step encourages families to resolve disputes without the need for court. Read more about a MIAM and it’s importance here.
Family Court Contact Details for Havering
While there is no courthouse specifically in Havering, family matters for residents are primarily dealt with by the Romford County Court and Family Court.
Court Name: Romford County Court and Family Court
Address: 2a Oaklands Avenue, Romford, RM1 4DP
Public Phone: 0300 123 5577 (main national number for all Family Court enquiries) Alternative Phone: 0300 123 1142
General Enquiries Email: Use the national phone number or consult a solicitor for the correct email address for case-related correspondence.
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, typically 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
If you are a grandparent in the Havering area seeking advice, you may also find support from organisations like Kinship (a charity for kinship carers) or Citizens Advice.
Capitol Family Mediation. Family and Civil Mediation for Families and Businesses
Meetings Are Strictly by Appointment Only. Our Location is not staffed
Mediation and urgent MIAM appointments can be arranged online . Speak to Capitol Mediation
Our Havering Hub – Find us at
44 North St, Hornchurch RM11 1TB
Call our team to book your mediation on 0208 719 0001
Capitol Family Mediation - Supporting London Boroughs
Capitol Mediation Havering supports individuals and families across the borough, where family law matters are typically handled by the Romford County Court and Family Court. The court deals with issues including child arrangements, divorce, domestic abuse, and financial remedies.
Grandparents often play a vital role in a child’s life, but they do not have an automatic legal right to contact. Where relationships break down and informal arrangements are no longer possible, grandparents may need to apply to the Family Court for permission (leave) to seek a Child Arrangements Order. The court will consider factors such as the existing relationship with the child, the reasons for the application, and what is in the child’s best interests.
Mediation is strongly encouraged before any court application. It provides a structured and less confrontational way for families, including grandparents, to explore solutions and preserve important family relationships.
Capitol Mediation Havering works with parents and extended family members to reach practical, child-focused agreements that can be formalised by the court if required.
Call our team on 0208 719 0001 to find out more about mediation support in Havering.