A service that will protect solicitors from forged signatures when acting for non-local clients was launched this week.

The Veri-fy system, created by legal support company Your Solicitor, enables clients signing legal documents to have their identity and signature authenticated at post offices.

For a 5 fee paid by the client, postmasters in sub-post offices - which are located in rural areas - will witness the signing of a document and check the client's passport or driving licence.

The service is expected to be used for conveyancing documents, witness statements, and other legal documents.

The post office will be able to provide two witness signatures for wills created on-line.

However, it will not be available for documents which must be signed under oath or in the presence of a solicitor.

Your Solicitor director Alan Benstock, who is also vice-chairman of the Law Society's probate section, said: 'There is a growing concern about fraud and identification abuse, coupled with stricter money laundering rules and requirements.

The problem of fraudulent signatures, which have been falsely witnessed, is surprisingly widespread.

This service will provide security for solicitors who are acting for clients at a distance.'

Rachel Rothwell