Questioned Documents
The forensic discipline of questioned documents spans a range of evidence, including pattern evidence. One broad area of interest is in forgery of signatures, documents, and credit cards. Many of the cases involved elements of pattern evidence, but not all. If a shredded document needs to be reassembled, questioned document analysts are often the ones who tackle this task. Signature forgery is still a part of the caseload although the signatures may be pen and ink or electronic. Chemical analysis of inks, toner, and paper also often falls under the umbrella of questioned document analysis.
Learning Objectives
18.1 Recognize the many different aspects of forensic document analysis
18.2 Describe basic aspects of handwriting analysis and signature forgery
18.3 Describe the operation of inkjet and laser printers, copiers, and scanners and how each can generate physical evidence useful in linking a document to a specific device
