Japanese family law is designed to encourage the private resolution of family issues. Under the "family registration" ("koseki") system, changes in family status and relationships do not require official approval. Article 763 of the Civil Code of Japan authorizes a husband and wife to divorce by mutual agreement ("kyogi rikon" divorces), and more than 90% of all Japanese divorces adopt this fast, simple and entirely non-judicial procedure. "Kyogi rikon" divorces are entirely non-judicial without the involvement of lawyers or any tribunal. The only requirements are that each spouse should sign a form, known as a "rikon todoke", in front of two witnesses, and that the form should be filed with the local registration office. The parties do not need to make any appearance at the registry office. International couples may obtain a consent divorce in Japan if one of them is a Japanese citizen: Horei Law on the Application of Laws, Law No. 10 of 1898 (as amended 2001), Art. 16. If the parties cannot agree, judicial divorces may be obtained through the court system.