Questioned Document Analysis
by: Claire Coble
What is a Questioned Document?
- A questioned document is any signature, handwriting, typewriting, or other mark whose source or authenticity is in dispute or doubtful
Techniques Used to Analyze Questioned Documents
- Comparisons are done with the naked eye or with a hand lens
- Special lighting is used to reveal small details about how the document was altered or created
- Backlighting makes areas where an eraser has been used turn lighter and correction fluids dark
- The Video Spectral Comparator allows an examiner to analyze inks, visualize hidden security features, and reveal alterations on a document using variable light sources and photography and a spectrum analysis tool
The Principle of Individuality
- Also known as the principle of uniqueness
- Forms the basis for handwriting analysis
- States that no two writers share the same combination of handwriting characteristics given sufficient quantity and quality of writing to compare
Types of Forgeries, Alterations & Frauds
- Forgeries: freehand (plain writing) and tracing (tracing over previously written material)
- Alterations: Obliterations (when someone has erased or otherwise removed or hidden some kind of writing or printing) and erasures (the removal of writing, recorded material, or data)
- Frauds: Counterfeiting money, documents, or valuable artistic and/or historical written items
Handwriting Example
- Print with cursive hints
- Looped "d"'s and "l"'s
- Mix of pen lifts and no pen lifts
Rubric
Component
Points Possible
Points Earned
Definition Questioned Document
10
10
Techniques to Analyze QD
20
20
Principle of Individuality
10
10
Types of Conclusions/Forgeries, Etc
20
20
Sample of Handwriting with Analysis
20
20
Images Included and Written for Teen Audience with Career Focus and Rubric Included
20
20