Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you tell us who wrote this anonymous note?
A: Depending on the evidence, yes. And, the evidence may provide a basis for telling who didn’t write the note. Please call or click to learn what to do to set up a proper investigation of the handwriting of all prime suspects.
Q: I’ve never used a handwriting examiner before. What do I need to do to get started?
A: You’ve taken the first step by contacting me. Go back to my home page and click the red button “Ask the Expert” or print out my Checklist for Handling Your Evidence and the Chain of Custody Receipt” If you have further questions, please contact me for more guidance.
Q: Can you testify in court?
A: Yes, I am court-qualified and have testified over 50 times in Federal and State Courts and arbitrations.
Q: Can you tell about someone’s personality by looking at their signature?
A: No, I don’t provide personality assessment using handwriting. Although “graphology” is the study of handwriting, there are three distinct divisions of graphology: Experimental, Forensic, and Character. You are asking about Character Graphology, which is not my specialty. My specialty is working with handwriting to determine authorship in a forensic capacity. Click here for more information about the three divisions of graphology.
Q: Can a document examiner work with photocopies of the evidence?
A: Yes, you may provide photocopies of your evidence. However, if available, it is preferable to examine originals that may reveal forensic details that become the basis of a higher confidence level of expert opinion. Click here for information about the Levels of Opinion.
Q: This signature just doesn’t look right…is it forged?
A: Discovering the truth about whether or not it is forged requires a process of comparing known signature samples (“exemplars”) with the questioned signature. After my evaluation and examination of the evidence, I will form and provide you with an opinion regarding its genuineness.
Q: Is my item authentic or is it a fake?
A: When examining memorabilia, historical pieces, art or found items, etc., I use appropriate equipment to observe information that will help to identify whether or not it is genuine. Please go to “Free Downloads & Resources” on this website to read about my examination of a vintage baseball card (Honus Wagner) and an artifact from the Titanic.
