NCJ Number
160319
Date Published
1995
Length
123 pages
Annotation
Written by the former president of the Association of Forensic Document Examiners, this volume details a systematic method for learning and practicing the skills of forensic signature examination.
Abstract
Readers are advised to assemble their personal signature study board for use as they test and practice the instructions in the volume; the study board consists of 12 signatures or copies of signatures from the reader's canceled checks. Study boards assist the document examiner in developing an understanding of the normal variations to be expected in any person's signatures. The central principle underlying the practice of signature identification is that only habit can keep the pen moving at a uniquely individualized, dynamic rhythm and form balance. An imitation is detectable when the writer makes an error of rhythm or form, which causes the false signature to differ significantly from the range of normal variations defined by the victim's samples. Individual chapters focus on the elements of comparison, the recognition of false signatures, materials for comparison, the determination and explanation of differences, case ratings, working with copies, levels of certainty of opinions, errors, reports, testimony in trials and depositions, questioning of the document examiner, and the training and certification of document examiners. Illustrations, footnotes, index, and 9 references