With e-dealing there is a greater focus on ensuring that the client's photo ID matches the name used. This should have always been the case in paper, but may have received less emphasis in practice than it deserved.

An inconsistency between the client's photo ID and the name used can be a problem when purchasing or selling.

In a purchase we ask the client to confirm the correct spelling of their name to enable preparation of the transfer and mortgage. Often that may occur prior to seeing the client or their ID. It is common for the name on the ID to vary slightly from the name provided by the client. This problem is compounded if the A & I is signed at a distance and is only returned the day before settlement with an inconsistency.

Solution: Always ask the client what exact name is shown on their ID at the earliest opportunity.

That will generally flag the problem in time to address it. Many clients (legitimately) use a name other than that shown on their ID and innocently give the lawyer that name. This is the case with many foreign language clients.

If purchasing, you can then ensure that the transferee name will match exactly with the ID. If the client wishes to include an alias there is provision for that in the prepare transfer screen.

If selling, you can obtain independent corroborating evidence to verify the client¡¦s identity. For example, a Marriage Certificate for a change from maiden to married name.