NCJ Number
212295
Date Published
2005
Length
110 pages
Annotation
This updated and expanded report serves as a guide and reference for investigators and examiners in matters related to the identification of handwriting, reflecting the scientific method of detecting whether writing is genuine or forged.
Abstract
The Bates’ Identification System for Questioned Documents (I.S.Q.D.) enables the examiner to inform the observer, and then allow the observer to accompany the examiner through the 12 points of comparison. This book reintroduces the Questioned Document Examination to assist investigators and forensic document examiners. The intent is to put a scientific method of discovery of the fact and of proving it at the fingertips of the investigator. The book updates and expands the previous edition and continues to reflect the scientific method of detecting whether writing is genuine or forged. Questioned Document Examination has two essential parts: discovery and proof. Part 1 of the book presents a scientific method for comparing questioned writing with genuine writing. Part 2 deals with the preparation of the facts for presentation and the method of presenting them to those who legally are to decide the matter in court. The original 12 points of comparison from the first edition of the book are maintained while additional information is introduced to assist the examiner in both conducting the examination and its presentation. The book adds information on qualified opinions based on writing conditions, disguised writing, and lack of quality or number of specimens. In addition, terminology used by examiners to express their findings based on degree of certainty, as well as information on digital imaging as it pertains to cameras and other devices are presented. I.S.Q.D. is based on scientific principles and techniques, which are supported by a century of research and experiment. Guided by scientific principles, the examiner can be as sure of the analysis in the questioned document case as a fingerprint or voiceprint specialist can be sure of his conclusion. Bibliography, index