Standards in Forensic Handwriting Analysis

Decoding Standards in Forensic Handwriting Analysis: Unveiling Comparisons and Techniques

In the realm of forensic handwriting analysis, the concept of "standards" holds paramount importance. Standards are the cornerstone for comparing and deciphering handwriting characteristics. Let's delve into the nuances of standards, understand their types, and explore how they contribute to the intricate world of forensic investigations, with relatable examples for investigation officers (IOs) or students.

Standards:

In forensic handwriting analysis, standards are the known writings, signatures, or initials of an individual, taken for comparison with questioned documents. These standards provide a basis for experts to analyze and differentiate between genuine and potentially fraudulent documents. Standards also encompass typed/printed scripts, seals, and stamp impressions from known sources.

Two Types of Standards:

A. Admitted Writings or Non-Request Standards: These are authentic samples naturally written by individuals during their regular activities. For instance, an employee's casual emails, a student's class notes, a professional's application for a loan – all these serve as admitted writings. These standards are preferred when they belong to the same general class as the questioned documents and are of the same time frame.

B. Specimen Writings or Request Standards: These are writings specifically provided by suspects for comparison purposes. Imagine a suspect being asked to write a specific sentence in the presence of the authorities. This would be a specimen writing. Certain guidelines are followed to ensure fairness and accuracy in this process, such as providing the suspect with similar writing materials and not showing them the questioned document.

Examples to Illustrate:

A. Admitted Writings: Think of a student who's been writing notes throughout the semester. These notes, filled with casual jottings and scribbles, serve as admitted writings. When compared to a questioned document, these notes can provide insights into their natural writing style.

B. Specimen Writings: Imagine a suspect in a forgery case is asked to write the same sentence multiple times using the same pen and paper as the questioned document. These specimens serve as a basis for comparison and analysis, helping experts discern whether the questioned document is genuine or forged.

Key Points for Collection of Specimen Writings:

• Comfortable posture for the suspect.
• Similar writing materials as the questioned document.
• No exposure to the questioned document.
• Varying dictation intervals to prevent imitation.
• Multiple sheets for fresh attempts.
• Replicating word combinations and numerals.
• A substantial number of specimens for conclusive comparison.

Conclusion:

Standards are the cornerstones of forensic handwriting analysis, guiding experts in discerning authenticity. Admitted writings reveal an individual's natural style, while specimen writings serve as direct comparisons. By understanding these concepts and techniques, IOs and students gain insights into the meticulous world of forensic investigation, where even the subtlest strokes can hold profound significance.