1. Introduction
Court orders carry significant weight, but mistakes sometimes happen. If you spot an error, acting immediately is crucial. Knowing how to request an urgent court order correction UK ensures you are not bound by inaccurate or unfair terms.
2. When an Urgent Correction Is Needed
You may need an urgent correction if the order contains:
- Wrong dates or deadlines that cause immediate risk.
- Incorrect financial figures (such as child maintenance or asset distribution).
- Directions not reflecting the judge’s ruling.
- Errors that could trigger enforcement or contempt proceedings.
3. The Slip Rule for Clerical Errors
Under Civil Procedure Rule (CPR) 40.12, clerical errors or accidental slips can be corrected quickly using the slip rule. This covers:
- Typing mistakes.
- Spelling errors in names or case numbers.
- Wrong dates or amounts.
Slip rule corrections are usually fast, often resolved without a hearing.
4. Substantive Errors Requiring Urgent Action
If the error is more serious and changes the effect of the judge’s decision, you may need to:
- Apply to vary the order immediately.
- File an urgent appeal if the ruling itself was recorded incorrectly.
- Request an emergency hearing to prevent enforcement on wrong terms.
5. Steps to Apply for an Urgent Correction
- Identify the mistake and compare the order with your notes or transcript.
- Contact the court immediately by phone and follow up in writing.
- Submit an application (Form N244) for urgent consideration.
- Provide supporting evidence, such as hearing notes or transcripts.
- Request a stay of enforcement until the error is corrected.
6. Time Limits for Urgent Corrections
- Slip rule corrections can be made at any time.
- Appeals must usually be filed within 21 days.
- Urgent applications should be made as soon as the error is discovered to prevent enforcement.
7. What Happens After You Apply
- If clerical, the court may amend the order immediately.
- If substantive, a short hearing may be listed.
- Enforcement action is usually paused while the correction is reviewed.
8. When to Seek Legal Help
Professional help is strongly advised if:
- The order imposes significant financial obligations.
- The mistake relates to child arrangements or protective orders.
- The other party disputes your correction request.
A solicitor can prepare the urgent application and represent you in court.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I correct a sealed order urgently?
Yes, sealed orders can still be corrected under the slip rule or by application to vary.
2. What if enforcement has already started?
You can apply for an urgent stay of enforcement while the correction is dealt with.
3. Is there a fee for urgent corrections?
Slip rule corrections are free, but formal urgent applications may require a court fee.
4. Can I make the correction request myself?
Yes, but legal advice ensures the application is made correctly and efficiently.
5. How fast can urgent corrections be made?
Clerical corrections can be done within days. Substantive corrections may require a short hearing but can still be expedited.
6. What if the judge’s ruling itself was wrong?
You must file an urgent appeal rather than a correction request.
Conclusion
If you discover a court order error that requires urgent correction in the UK, act immediately. Use the slip rule for clerical mistakes, or file an urgent application for substantive errors. Quick action can prevent unfair enforcement, financial loss, or harm in family matters. Seeking legal support is highly recommended to ensure the correction is processed without delay.