1. By: Marissa Kuhns and Emily Kaye

2. The main role of a certified forensic document examiner is to investigate the reliability of a specific text, including checks, contracts, deeds or medical records Also determine if the document was a commercial printing or photocopy (forged?) Typically involve comparing the documents in question with substantiated material

3. An undergraduate or master's degree program from an accredited academic establishment There is not a specific degree program required for this field; however, a major in forensic science or criminal justice can be helpful To become certified, the American Board of Forensic Document Examiners requires completion of a 2-year, full-time training program in a forensic laboratory or under an established examiner

4. If a document is in question can go to many sources (Bank Records, Birth Certificate, Real estate Records etc.) Help solve crimes by verifying the authenticity of handwritten or typed records

5. The Lindbergh Kidnapping of 1932 One of the most highly publicized crimes A child was kidnapped for ransom in the evening and discovered 2 months later The investigation lasted for 2 years

6. The kidnapper wrote a note and left it behind on the windowsill for the father to find The note read: Dear Sir!Have 50.000$ redy 25 000$ in 20$ bills 15000$ in 10$ bills and 10000$ in 5$ bills After 2–4 days we will inform you were to deliver the mony. We warn you for making anyding public or for notify the Police The child is in gut care. Indication for all letters are Singnature (Symbol to right) and three hohls.

7. Fingerprints were unable to be taken from the crime scene Officers could survey postal letterboxes in Brooklyn A device could be placed inside each letterbox to isolate the letters in sequence as they were dropped in, to help track down anyone who might be tied to the case

8. When the ransom was delivered, the government was involved. It was packaged in a custom made box in hopes of tracking it down The bills all had unique serial numbers that they used to track down the suspect further. Through this technique, they were able to find the killer

9. Supporting evidence was found in the home of the killer including, wood used to make the ladder to kidnap the child, a notebook in which the ransom note was written, and more The killer was named Bruno Richard Hauptmann and was charged with extortion and murder

10. Start as a Trainee Usually become an intern for a forensic document examiner May have to relocate to another region to seek work Not in very high demand, however it’s a growing field

11. Advantages Paid well once in a position Help solve crimes in ways others cannot Have a background in forensics/criminal law if wish to change career Master’s Degree is recommended, which requires more schooling/money Not a career that’s in major need right now Disadvantages

12. $80,662.40 - $98,051.20 Annually The city of San Francisco lists the salary range for a forensic document examiner with two years of experience from $78,700 to $95,600

13. Forensic analyst Trace evidence examiner Forensic Accountant Forensic Engineer Latent Print examiner

14. Same signatures prepared by different writers Four signatures written by the same individual, demonstrating variation

15. Low skilled vs. high skilled writers

16. The handwriting sample from the above slide illustrating 1.Baseline 2.Connecting stroke 3.Height relationships 4. Size