In the form, add a hidden input field not tied to any attribute,
In the model, declare that attribute, and add it to the safe rule array (unless you use $_POST afterwards),
In the model, use a custom validator for the desired field to achieve the rule you want,
In that custom validator, waive the controls when the value of the hidden input field is set to, say, 1
When the value of the hidden input field is set to 0 (or empty, whatever you choose), run the controls of that custom validator
Use the form’s afterValidate property to set the hidden input value to 1 if the relevant error div is shown (using [font=“Courier New”].is(’:visible’)[/font]).
I can think of some simple variations* but I think I’d start from here to see if it works.
A variation idea: add the hidden input on-the-fly when an error is raised ie the relevant error div is visible, and check in the model’s validator that the input is present.