Forensic document examination services
Comprehensive examination of questioned documents, handwriting and signatures for criminal, civil, disciplinary and administrative matters.
Handwriting & Signature Examination
Independent identification of questioned handwriting and signatures, compared against suitable known specimens.
- Questioned signatures against known specimen signatures
- Questioned handwriting, including block capitals and numerals
- Anonymous and threatening letters
- Disguised and self-disguised writing
Forgery, Alterations & Obscured Writing
Identification and analysis of forgeries, erasures, alterations and additions, and deciphering of obscured or overwritten writing.
- Forged and fabricated documents
- Chemical and mechanical erasures
- Additions, insertions and interlineations
- Overwritten, crossed-out and obliterated entries
Indented Impressions (ESDA)
Examination of indented impressions using specialised instrumentation (ESDA).
- Recovery and decipherment of indented writing
- Sequence of writing and of entries in registers or diaries
- Linking pages to the same pad, notebook or writing session
- Testing whether a document was written when and where it is claimed
Printed Documents & Stamp Impressions
Examination of printed matter and of stamped impressions, including the instruments used to create them.
- Documents produced by computer printers, photocopiers and fax machines
- Identification of the printing process used
- Cut-and-paste and composite photocopies
- Stamp impressions compared with a seized or known stamp
Currency & Security Features
Authentication of all currencies and examination of paper-based security technologies, including microdots.
- Banknotes of all currencies
- Paper-based security features: watermarks, threads, fibres and planchettes
- Security printing: intaglio, microprinting and fine-line patterns
- Ultraviolet and infrared features
Other document questions
Any other forensic document-related question falling within the recognised scope of forensic document examination. If you are unsure whether we can help, ask us.
Specialised instruments, non-destructive methods
Documents are examined without damage and returned in the condition received, with every step photographed and recorded.
Video Spectral Comparator (VSC 90)
Infrared, ultraviolet and multi-spectral light to reveal alterations, erasures, differing inks and security features.
Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA)
Non-destructive recovery of indented writing impressions that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
Microscopy and forensic imaging
Magnified examination of line quality, pen movement, printing processes and paper surfaces, fully photographed.
Specialised document equipment
Other instruments relevant to the specific questioned document problem.
Every document has a story.
Tell us about the matter. We will advise on what is needed, what an examination can answer, and the likely cost.