Clicky divorce: Now couples can get a speedy split online

UNHAPPY couples will be able to apply for divorce using mobile phones or laptops under a major shake-up.

A new online system will mean neither husband, wife, nor the judge will need to be in court – and instead of arduous form-filling, a marriage can now finish with just a few computer mouse clicks.

Divorcing couples will answer online questionnaires about their marital history, wealth and income, as well as arrangements made for their children.

The new ‘click-to-split’ system, which is being launched this month after a successful pilot scheme, is intended to reduce the stress of separation and speed up a process which can take years. Ministers hope the new service – part of a £1billion programme to modernise the court system – will save £250million a year by cutting red tape.

During the pilot scheme more than 1,000 divorce petitions were lodged, with 91 per cent of people satisfied. Match of The Day host Gary Lineker and second wife Danielle Bux used the system to split.

Justice minister Lucy Frazer said: ‘Allowing divorce applications to be made online will help make sure we are best supporting people going through an often difficult and painful time.’ It costs £550 to apply for a divorce, using the paper or digital service.