How online ID verification has changed the way solicitors work

Digital transformation has reshaped how legal professionals operate, especially in areas that previously relied heavily on paper-based processes. One of the biggest shifts has been the introduction of online ID verification, which has significantly streamlined the way solicitors manage client onboarding, property transactions, and compliance requirements.

1) Faster and more efficient client onboarding

In the past, solicitors depended on face-to-face meetings to verify client identity. This often caused delays—especially when clients lived far away, had busy schedules, or were based overseas.
With online verification tools, solicitors can now confirm identity within minutes, allowing cases to progress without unnecessary waiting times.

2) Stronger compliance and reduced risk

Solicitors have strict responsibilities under anti-money laundering (AML) and Land Registry requirements.
Online verification platforms provide consistent, accurate checks supported by biometric scanning, document authentication, and automated audit trails.
This reduces human error and ensures firms remain fully compliant, protecting them from regulatory issues.

3) Easier handling of remote and overseas clients

Many clients involved in UK property transactions live abroad or cannot visit a solicitor’s office in person. Online identity checks allow them to complete the process from anywhere in the world.

For solicitors, this has transformed how they manage remote clients. Instead of arranging in-person meetings or waiting for posted documents, they can now receive verified identity information instantly. This has reduced waiting times, prevented stalled cases, and made cross-border work much easier to handle — especially when using trusted services like ID1 form verification online.

4) Smoother land registry process

Since HM Land Registry now accepts digital identity checks for ID1, ID2, and ID5, solicitors no longer rely on paper forms or in-person verification.
This means fewer mistakes, faster processing, and smoother communication between solicitors and clients during property transactions.

5) Lower costs for solicitor

Switching from manual checks to digital verification reduces travel, printing, storage, and administrative overheads.
Firms can now handle more cases in the same amount of time, increasing productivity while keeping costs manageable.

6) Better data security and record keeping

Reputable digital ID systems use encryption, secure storage, and automated logs to track each check.
This provides solicitors with a reliable digital record that can be accessed quickly if needed for audits or case reviews.

Ready for online ID verification?

Online ID verification has transformed how solicitors work—making processes faster, safer, and more accessible for clients across the UK and abroad. As digital checks continue to evolve, they are becoming an essential part of modern legal practice, especially in property and identity-related matters.