Why do I have to prove my identity?

We have a responsibility to act in your best interests at all times. Part of that responsibility is to ensure that you are protected from fraud and criminal deception such as identity theft. In order for us to do this we need to be satisfied that your credentials are genuine before we can act for you.

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The Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds legislation also require appropriate identity (ID) evidence to be provided when certain transactions take place. These regulations are designed to prevent money that has been obtained through criminal practices from being filtered through lawful channels in order to legitimise it.

If our staff fail to follow the required procedures regarding ID checks then the Solicitors Regulation Authority (our professional body) will view this as a serious breach of professional conduct. As a result, the staff member concerned could, as a minimum, be ‘struck off’, or even in some cases go to prison.

We appreciate that it can be frustrating having to produce documentation to prove your identification, but ultimately the regulations are in place to protect you. The sooner you are able to provide proof of identification the sooner we can begin acting for you.

When do I have to provide my ID documentation?

We cannot undertake any work on your behalf until the identity checks are completed. Please therefore be prepared to provide your identity documents as soon as you instruct us to act for you so as to avoid any delay in getting things underway on your case.

Do I have to come into your offices for the verification to take place?

No. You can use our online ID verification service called Thirdfort. This is the quickest method of verifying your identity and can be done using your smartphone. You will need a passport or driving licence and proof of address. Please refer to the leaflet below which explains this service.

Can I bring my ID into your offices?

Yes, but you will need to make an appointment with the person dealing with your file so that they can meet you and take copies of your ID documents. All clients need to attend in person with their own ID.

What type of ID documentation will I need to provide?

You will need to provide 2 types of identity documents – photographic ID for evidence of name and identity (Category A), and evidence of proof of address (Category B).

Category A

Current valid full passport (this is the best form of ID)
Current valid UK photocard driving licence
National identity card or resident’s permit
A current shotgun and firearm certificate
Bus Pass

Category B

Current valid UK photocard driving licence (if not provided in List A as evidence of name and identity)

A recent utility bill (not more than three months old) in respect of electricity, gas, water or home telephone, clearly stating your name and address (a mobile phone bill is not acceptable)
A local authority council tax bill (for the current year)
Recent bank/building society statement (not more than 3 months old)
A mortgage statement from a lender for the mortgage accounting year just ended
A council rent book showing the rent paid for the last three months
Local council rent card or tenancy agreement

On receipt of your ID documentation we will verify those identity documents using the services of reputable reference companies who carry out relevant identity checks on our behalf. This is a soft search and will not impact your credit score.

What do I do if I can’t provide the necessary ID documentation?

Please speak to us at the earliest opportunity if you are not able to provide the documents listed above. There are alternative options that we can look at.