1. Forensic Science Questioned Documents

2. 1. Questioned Documents
Any object that contains handwritten or typewritten/printed markings whose source or authenticity is in doubt is considered a question document.

3. 1. Questioned Documents These include: Letters Checks Driver’s license
Contracts
Wills
Passports
Lottery tickets

4. 1. Questioned Documents
Questioned documents may also include writings or markings found on walls, windows, doors, etc.

5. Questioned Documents
The document examiner must ascertain the authenticity or source of a document through handwriting examination and the use of microscopy, photography, chromatography to note any change or alterations.
The examiner must be able to recognize erasures and overwriting in attempt to change the original meaning of a document.
The examiner must be able to reconstruct charred or burned paper.

6. 15. COMPARISON OF EXPERTS
Forensic Document Examiner--involves the analysis and comparison of questioned documents with known material in order to identify whenever possible, the author or origin of the questioned document.
Unfortunately, no federal licensing exists. There is certification through the ABFDE.
Graphologist--attempts to predict character traits from handwriting examination

7. Handwriting Analysis Handwriting Sample of President George Bush
According to Sheila Lowe in her book, Handwriting of the Famous and Infamous, President Bush’s handwriting is “fast and highly simplified in fairly well-organized writing field”.
Is this a forensic document examiner or a graphologist??

8. Related Fields
Historical Dating—the verification of age and value of a document or object
Fraud Investigation—focuses on the money trail and criminal intent
Paper and Ink Specialists—date, type, source, and/or catalogue various types of paper, watermarks, ink, printing/copy/fax machines, computer cartridges
Forgery Specialists—analyze altered, obliterated, changed, or doctored documents and photos
Typewriting Analysts—determine origin, make, and models
Computer Crime Investigators—investigate cybercrime

9. 8. Types of Forgery
Simulated forgery—one made by copying a genuine signature
Traced forgery—one made by tracing a genuine signature
Blind forgery—made without a model of the signature