Evidence of Identity

We are required to keep evidence of the identity of our clients. As with banks, accountants and other professions, this means that when you first instruct us it will be necessary for you to produce proof of both your identity and your residential address. We have to see the original documents (photocopies are not acceptable) and must  keep copies of them on file. After we have taken a  copy we will return the original document to you.

What documentary evidence is required?

For an individual we will need to see either your passport or a photo driving licence (so that we can see from the photograph that the document relates to you) together with two 'official' documents addressed to you showing both your name and your residential address. Examples of such documents would be bank or building society statements, utilities bills, council tax demand, TV licence demand, etc. The two official documents should be recent (dated within the last three months).

If we are instructed to act for a partnership we will need to see evidence of identity for each of the partners (subject to an exception for certain categories of professional partnership, where we can take evidence just of the partner by whom we are instructed).

If we are to act for a private company, we will need to see proof of the company's existence (its certificate of incorporation) and where possible its last annual accounts and annual return. We will also need to see proof of personal identity and residential address as set out above for the controlling shareholder(s) and (if different) the director from whom we receive instructions on the company's behalf. If the company is a PLC and listed on the Stock Exchange we do not have to obtain evidence for the company but only for its representative who instructs us. Equivalent provisions apply for companies based abroad.

If you are unsure about these requirements or are unable to produce the documents mentioned please let us know so that we can discuss the position with you and identify suitable alternatives.