How to Work with a Document Examiner

Has the document been forged, and if so, by a person they suspect?
Is the signature genuine on the will, contract or check?
How can I prove that the signature on the document is not mine?
Did the doctor (nurse, caregiver, etc.) alter my medical records later?
What is written under the crossed out or whitened out words?
Did the same person who signed one document sign the other?
Did the person I suspect write the anonymous or poison pen letter?
Have both documents been typed on the same typewriter?
Is it possible that the document was executed on the date indicated?

The situations above are just a few of the reasons to contact a document examiner and the following will help you should you need their services:

Try to obtain the original of the document in question if available.

• The original should be protected in an acid-free sleeve.
• Do not place any marks, writing, arrows or highlighter on the original.
• Make several copies of the original.

Gather known valid samples for comparison (called standards).

• The known samples should also be originals, if possible.
• The samples should also be around the same time period - approximately six months before or after is preferable.
• Also, obtain like samples, i.e. if it is a signature, get signatures; if it is other writing, try to obtain writing that contains the same letters or phrases; and if the questioned writing is printed, the samples should be of printing.
• Some excellent sources of samples are: - Cancelled checks
  - Credit card/sales receipts
  - Letters and cards
  - Legal documents/contracts

  If you are having a problem obtaining known samples, please contact me for a FREE list of 101 Sources of Handwriting Standards.

Contact a Board Certified Document Examiner who is Court Qualified and Experienced.