A
Forensic Document Examiner is not a degreed course of study conveyed by
a college, but rather a disciplined study of handwriting and document
examination with at least a two-year apprenticeship under the tutelage
of a mentor, who is recognized as an expert in the field.
"Forensic" means "the application of science to law." A Forensic Document Examiner
- also known as Questioned Document Examiner - discovers and develops
evidence from a document or signature that can be used in a court of law.
The Handwriting Expert’s job is to determine whether handwriting or
printing is authentic or spurious, and to identify or eliminate a
person as the author.
As a document examiner, I study and identify signatures, hand printing,
handwriting, initials, and numbers. I also study documents made by
computer printers, typewriters, and markings on walls, glass, wood or
even automobiles. I compare papers, inks, printing, typewriting,
computer-generated documents, facsimiles, photocopies, rubber stamps
and holes made by a stapler or hole punch.
Since
the tremendous success of television shows like CSI and Forensic Files,
we are often asked about our job and the "glamorous" work we do. While
most people would not find laboratory work appealing, I find the
examination of handwriting and documents highly intriguing. Analyzing
documents is done in methodical (sometimes tedious) systematic way so
that as much of the scientific evidence as possible is considered
before an opinion is formed - rather like putting together a puzzle.
The
balance of the job is best described by referring to the job
description recently posted by the Los Angeles County District
Attorney's Office.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Identifies or
eliminates writers of questioned documents (e.g., threat and
extortion letters, bank robbery notes, and contracts) by comparing
the details and elements of the questioned writing against known
handwriting specimens using microscopes, optical aids, and other
instruments.
Examines and compares typewriters and other methods of mechanical
printing and copying processes with questioned documents in order to
determine the identity of the typewriter, printer, or other printing
and copying equipment or methods of reproduction, through the
analysis of type alignment defects, clogged or broken typeface, and
proportional spacing.
Analyzes various elements (e.g., paper, indentation, and sequence
of writing) of questioned documents in order to determine their
authenticity and author by comparing the original manufacturer's
date with the date appearing on the questioned documents; analyzing
alterations, erasures, and substitutions; and determining the types
of ink that was utilized in their development.
Examines altered and illegible documents such as torn, charred,
eradicated, or obliterated samples in order to decipher or restore
the original writing or text using the appropriate analytical
procedures or techniques including the use of photography, digital
enhancement, and ultraviolet and infrared radiation.
Prepares formal written reports detailing the findings (e.g.,
authenticity of the questioned document and identity of the author),
investigative methods and laboratory techniques used in the
examination, and conclusions of questioned document examinations.
Testifies in court as an expert witness and prepares court
exhibits, if appropriate. Reviews and keeps current on the latest
technical advances and legal issues (e.g., advances in scientific
microscopy and photographic equipment; current case law; and rules
of evidence) affecting the profession.
Maintains reference files of items such as typewriters,
check-writers, ink, pens, pencils, paper, and other related elements
of forensic document examination.
Source: http://da.co.la.ca.us/hr/b1045.htm
Linda L Mitchell, Forensic Document Examiner(760) 310-1279 fax (760) 888-0339email: Linda @ ForensicDocExaminer.com