Questioned documents are pieces of writing or printed material whose authenticity or origin is disputed in legal or investigative scenarios. These documents can be subjected to forensic examination to determine their validity or to identify the author. When we talk about questioned documents, they generally fall into two broad categories:
- Handwritten Documents
- Printed Documents
Let’s dive into these two types in more detail:
1. Handwritten Documents
Handwritten documents often come under scrutiny when there is suspicion about the authenticity of the handwriting or a signature. Some common examples include:
- Signatures on Contracts: These could be forged, altered, or disputed, leading to handwriting analysis.
- Personal Letters: Often questioned when determining the authenticity of who wrote the letter or notes.
- Legal Wills: Disputes about whether a will was truly written or signed by the testator.
Handwriting analysis experts are often called upon to compare samples of known handwriting (exemplars) with the questioned document. They look at unique features like pen pressure, stroke patterns, and letter formations.
2. Printed Documents
Printed documents are those that come from a mechanical or digital source, such as typewriters, printers, or photocopiers. These documents are typically questioned when there’s doubt about their origin, such as:
- Counterfeit Currency: Fake money printed to replicate genuine currency.
- Fake IDs or Passports: Government documents that may have been tampered with or fraudulently produced.
- Altered Contracts: A printed contract that may have had information or clauses changed after signing.
Forensic experts can analyze ink, paper type, and even the specific make and model of the printer or copier used, helping them trace the document back to its origin.
In both handwritten and printed documents, forensic document examiners apply a range of methods such as chemical analysis, microscopic examination, and digital tools to resolve disputes about authenticity.