Get divorced at the click of a mouse in digital revolution

COUPLES will soon be able to apply for a “digital divorce” under plans to revolutionise the way in which marriages are dissolved.

For the first time, individuals seeking a divorce will be able to complete the entire process online.

Ministers want to introduce the service to allow all uncontested divorces to be conducted online, following a 10-month pilot scheme at the East Midlands Divorce Centre in Nottingham.

The online form is understood to include software which tailors questions based on the circumstances of the marriage breakdown.

Applicants must submit a petition online which is served to their spouse, who must approve to the divorce by signing the document, or state their reasons for contesting. In uncontested cases, the applicant is then issued with a decree nisi. After six weeks they are then able to apply for a decree absolute.

Ministers hope that the service, which forms part of an overhaul of the courts and tribunal system, will save £250million through a reduction in paperwork and processing time. Last night the Ministry of Justice confirmed that two other sites had begun testing the new system. However, critics said last night that the digital process will do little to improve the court system, which they claim is reeling from funding cuts.

An HM Courts and Tribunals Service spokesman said: “We have a world-leading legal system and are investing over £1billion to reform and enhance our courts.”