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What do the terms "forensic science" and "forensic document examination" mean?
Forensic science is the application of various sciences to the law. The application of
allied sciences and analytical techniques to questions concerning documents is termed
forensic document examination. The examination of questioned documents consists
of the analysis and comparison of questioned handwriting, hand printing, typewriting,
commercial printing, photocopies, papers, inks, and other documentary evidence with
known material in order to establish the authenticity of the contested material as well
as the detection of alterations.
How can forensic document examiners help attorneys?
Forensic document examiners (FDEs) help lawyers by examining and offering written
opinions on a variety of disputed document problems including: wills, deeds, medical
records, income tax records, time sheets, contracts, loan agreements, election
petitions, checks, and anonymous letters. Lawyers benefit from an FDEs specialized
knowledge of literature in the questioned document field. This knowledge will assist
lawyers in preparing meaningful direct examination questions for their own experts
and cross-examination questions for opposing experts.
Has a competent document examiner received specialized training?
Like most forensic disciplines, on-the-job specialized training from experienced
examiners is the only way to acquire expertise. No substitute exists for a legitimate
structured training program.
Where can I find a qualified forensic document examiner?
Attorneys should search for FDEs who are active members in the recognized national
and/or regional forensic science organizations. The following is a list of such
organizations:
- American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) (Questioned Document
Section)
- American Society of Questioned Document Examiners (ASQDE)
- American Board of Forensic Document Examiners (ABFDE)
- Northeastern Association of Forensic Scientists (NEAFS)
How can I make sure my witness is really an expert?
Credentials should be carefully examined in your expert witness selections. Do they
have the proper training, education, professional memberships, certification, and
necessary experience? Attorneys should be aware that persons who advertise as
handwriting analysts may be self-trained or trained as graphologists. Groups outside of
the mainstream forensic science organizations abound.
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"Is 'graphology' the same as
forensic document
examination?"
NO.
Graphology or
graphoanalysis attempts to
predict character traits from
handwriting examination.
Forensic document
examination involves the
scientific analysis and
comparison of questioned
documents with known
material in order to identify,
whenever possible, the
author or origin of the
questioned document. Some
graphologists call themselves
handwriting analysts or
document examiners and are
therefore confused with FDEs.
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