Online divorce form fault 'could re-open thousands of cases'

An urgent investigation has been launched after a fault was uncovered in an online form used by divorcing couples.

The error had the potential to inflate a spouse's financial worth, according to the Guardian.

The revelation prompted suggestions that thousands of couples who have settled divorces in the last 20 months may have to re-open negotiations.

The glitch was in Form E on the Ministry of Justice website.

%VIRTUAL-ArticleSidebar-family-stories%The form, which is not used by all divorcing couples, was rectified earlier this month.

Those who believe they may have been affected are being asked to email Her Majesty's Courts and Tribunal Service (HMCTS).

An spokesman said: "We are urgently investigating this issue.

"Officials are taking steps to identify rapidly cases where this regrettable error may have had an impact, and we will be writing to anyone affected as soon as possible.

"Anyone concerned about their own court proceedings should contact formE@hmcts.gsi.gov.uk."