Forensic Document Examination
Document examination involves the scientific examination, analysis, and comparison of documents whose genuineness or contents are questioned. These examinations can establish genuineness or non-genuineness, expose forgery, reveal alterations, additions or deletions. Examination of medical records, wills, checks, and notes for authenticity and sequence of writing can be performed.
Examinations and comparisons include but are not limited to: signature comparisons, anonymous writings, typewritten insertions, indented writing, alterations, handwriting comparisons, holographic wills, erasures, intersection of ink lines, obliterations, typewriter identification.
A questioned document is any material that contains marks, symbols, or signs conveying a meaning or a message and whose source or authenticity is in question. Questioned documents are not restricted to pieces of paper bearing handwritten text, but also include computer printing, typewritten material, markings on walls, glass, lumber or even a car fender.
The document examiner devotes his or her professional life to the study and examination of documents, primarily handwriting. While handwriting constitutes the majority of the typical document examiner's caseload, document examiners are also qualified to compare and examine papers, inks, printing, typewriting, computer-generated documents, photocopies, facsimiles, rubber stamps, and even staple holes.
