UNIVERSITY OF CAGAYAN VALLEY

(formerly Cagayan Colleges Tuguegarao)

VICTOR VENTURA PEREZ (VVP) CAMPUS,
TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN VALLEY, PHILIPPINES 3500
BALZAIN CAMPUS: (078) 844-1147 Local 218 – (Trunk Line)(078) 844-8978 – (Fax)
Email add: criminologydept20@[Link]

COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION

MODULE IN QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

NAME: BLOCK:
INSTRUCTOR:

Module Title: Questioned Document Examination: Fundamentals and Practices

Module Overview: This module introduces criminology students to the fascinating and
critical field of questioned document examination. It will cover the fundamental principles,
methodologies, and practical applications essential for understanding how questioned documents
are analyzed in a forensic context. The module will delve into the various divisions of the
discipline, the basic requirements for effective examination, the scientific methods employed
(specifically referencing the PNP-CLO SOP), and the instruments and apparatus used by
document examiners. The goal is to equip students with a foundational understanding of this
forensic science, enabling them to appreciate its role in criminal investigations and legal
proceedings.

Learning Objectives: Upon completion of this module, students will be able to:

1.​ Identify and differentiate the main divisions of questioned document examination.
2.​ Explain the basic requirements for conducting a thorough and reliable questioned
document examination.
3.​ Describe the scientific method as applied in questioned document examination, with a
focus on the PNP-CLO Standard Operating Procedures.
4.​ Recognize and understand the function of various instruments and apparatus used in
questioned document examination.
5.​ Appreciate the significance of questioned document examination in the broader field of
criminology and forensic science.

Module Structure:

Unit 1: Introduction to Questioned Document Examination & Its Divisions

Learning Objectives:
●​ Define questioned document examination.
●​ Define "document" from a forensic perspective
●​ Classify documents based on their nature and origin.
●​ Differentiate between a "questioned document" and a "disputed document."
●​ Identify and describe various types of documents commonly subjected to forensic
examination.

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 ●​ Provide examples of common questioned documents encountered in criminal and civil
cases.
●​ Enumerate and describe the different divisions of questioned document examination.
●​ Understand the scope and limitations of each division.

Content:

LESSON 1: The Document: Definition and Classification

A. What is a Document? (Forensic Perspective)

●​ Traditional Definition: Any material containing marks, symbols, or signs that convey
meaning or information.
●​ Forensic Definition: A document, in the context of questioned document examination, is
any material that contains marks, symbols, or signs (e.g., handwriting, typewriting,
printing, or images) which may be wholly or partially at issue, requiring a forensic expert
to determine its authenticity, origin, or alterations. This broad definition includes not just
paper, but also other surfaces like walls, fabrics, electronic files, etc., where information
is recorded and is subject to scrutiny.

B. Classification of Documents

Documents can be classified based on various criteria, which helps in understanding their legal
standing, evidentiary value, and the potential for forensic examination.

1.​ Based on Relationship with the Law (Legal Classification):

o​ Public Document: A document executed by a public official in the exercise of
their functions or by a private person with the intervention of a notary public or
competent public official. These are generally self-authenticating in court.
▪​ Examples: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, land titles, public
records, notarial documents.
o​ Official Document: A document issued by a public official or in the performance
of their duties, but not necessarily notarized or part of public records.
▪​ Examples: Government office memoranda, official receipts from
government agencies, police reports.
o​ Private Document: A document executed by a private person without the
intervention of a notary public or any other public official, by which some
disposition or agreement is proved, evidenced or set forth. They require proof of
authenticity to be admissible in court.
▪​ Examples: Personal letters, private contracts (not notarized), diaries,
receipts from private businesses.
o​ Commercial Document: Documents used in the course of business or commerce.
These can often overlap with private or public documents depending on their
execution and purpose.
▪​ Examples: Promissory notes, bills of exchange, checks, invoices, bank
statements.
2.​ Based on Creation/Form:
o​ Holographic Document: A document written entirely by the hand of the person
whose signature appears on it. This is significant in wills where specific legal
requirements may apply.

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 ▪​ Example: A handwritten will, entirely in the testator's own handwriting
and signed by them.
o​ Typewritten Document: A document produced using a typewriter. Forensic
examination focuses on typeface, alignment, ribbon impressions, and potentially
individual characteristics of the machine.
o​ Printed Document: A document produced using printing presses, laser printers,
inkjet printers, etc. Examination may involve analysis of toner, ink, paper, and
printing defects.
o​ Electronic Document (Digital Document): Information created, generated, sent,
communicated, received, or stored by electronic, optical, or similar means. While
QDE traditionally focuses on physical documents, the principles extend to digital
forensics for analyzing digital "documents" like emails, word processing files, or
scanned images that may be forged or altered.

Questioned vs. Disputed Document & Types of Documents

A. Questioned Document vs. Disputed Document

While often used interchangeably, there's a subtle but important distinction:
●​ Questioned Document: A document in its entirety or in part, whose authenticity or
origin is in doubt or under scrutiny. The question might be about who wrote it, when it
was written, or if it has been altered.
o​ Example: An anonymous threat letter. The authorship is questioned.
●​ Disputed Document: A document whose authenticity or content is challenged by
opposing parties in a legal proceeding. A disputed document is always a questioned
document, but a questioned document is not necessarily disputed in a legal context (e.g.,
an investigator might question a document's authenticity before any legal dispute arises).
o​ Example: A will where one heir claims the signature is a forgery. The will itself is
disputed by a party in court.

B. Types of Documents Subjected to Forensic Examination

Almost any document can become a "questioned document." However, certain types are
more frequently encountered in forensic investigations:
1.​ Handwritten Documents:
o​ Signatures: Most common, highly individualized.
o​ Anonymous Letters: Threat letters, poison pen letters, ransom notes.
o​ Wills and Codicils: Often subject to challenges regarding authenticity,
alterations, or mental capacity.
o​ Checks, Promissory Notes, Receipts: Common targets for forgery and alteration.
o​ Ledgers, Diaries, Notebooks: Can provide crucial evidence of activities or state
of mind.
o​ Graffiti: Handwriting on walls or surfaces.
2.​ Typewritten Documents:
o​ Contracts, letters, legal documents, reports.
o​ Examination focuses on the specific typewriter used, character alignment, defects,
and ink ribbon impressions.
3.​ Printed Documents:
o​ Currency, banknotes, passports, identification cards, security documents (e.g.,
stock certificates).
o​ Tickets (lottery, concert, travel).
o​ Official forms, invoices, brochures.

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 o​ Examination involves security features, printing process analysis, ink analysis,
and paper examination.
4.​ Other Documents/Materials:
o​ Photocopies/Scanned Documents: Can be analyzed for signs of alteration,
source machine characteristics.
o​ Indented Writings: Impressions left on underlying pages.
o​ Charred or Burned Documents: Specialized techniques for deciphering content.
o​ Falsified Identification Cards/Licenses: Analysis of security features, printing,
and photo insertion.

Examples of Questioned Documents

Here are concrete examples illustrating why a document becomes "questioned":
1.​ Forgery of a Signature: A will is presented to probate, but a family member alleges the
testator's signature is not genuine. The will becomes a questioned document, specifically
concerning the signature's authenticity.
2.​ Anonymous Threat Letter: A person receives a handwritten letter threatening harm.
The police will treat this as a questioned document, aiming to identify the author through
handwriting analysis.
3.​ Altered Contract: A business contract initially states "$1,000," but one party claims it
was later changed to "$10,000" by an unknown individual. The contract is a questioned
document regarding potential alteration.
4.​ Counterfeit Currency: A banknote is suspected of being fake. It's a questioned
document requiring examination of printing, paper, and security features to determine its
genuineness.
5.​ Typewritten Ransom Note: In a kidnapping case, a ransom note is left, typed on an old
typewriter. Investigators will try to link the note to a specific typewriter or individual
based on unique machine characteristics.
6.​ Disputed Will: Two versions of a will exist, each with different beneficiaries. Both wills
become disputed documents, and forensic examination will seek to determine which, if
either, is authentic.
7.​ Falsified Academic Transcript: A job applicant submits a transcript with altered grades.
The transcript is a questioned document, and examination will focus on alterations to
numbers or text.
8.​ Indented Writing on a Notepad: A notepad is found at a crime scene. While the top
page is missing, investigators examine the underlying pages for indented impressions,
which can reveal crucial information written on the missing sheet.

1.​ Definition of Questioned Document Examination:

o​ Forensic discipline involving the examination of documents to determine their
authenticity, origin, or to identify alterations.
o​ Role in criminal justice system (e.g., fraud, forgery, anonymous letters, suicide
notes).
2.​ Divisions of Questioned Document Examination:
o​ Handwriting and Signature Analysis:
▪​ Identification of authorship based on unique writing habits.
▪​ Comparison of questioned handwriting/signatures with known samples
(standards).
▪​ Factors affecting handwriting (e.g., age, health, writing instrument, writing
surface).
o​ Typewriting and Computer-Generated Document Examination:
▪​ Identification of specific typewriters (make, model, individual defects).

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 ▪​ Examination of printer characteristics (laser, inkjet, dot matrix).
▪​ Analysis of fonts, spacing, alignment, and other formatting features.
o​ Paper and Ink Analysis:
▪​ Determination of paper characteristics (fiber composition, watermarks,
coatings, dimensions).
▪​ Analysis of ink components (chemical composition, age dating, writing
instrument type).
▪​ Deciphering obliterated or faded inks.
o​ Document Alteration and Obliteration:
▪​ Detection of erasures (mechanical, chemical).
▪​ Identification of additions, interlineations, or substitutions.
▪​ Analysis of obliterations (writing over existing text).
o​ Indented Impressions and Charred Documents:
▪​ Visualization and recovery of indented writing (impressions on underlying
pages).
▪​ Examination of charred or burned documents for decipherment.
o​ Security Features Examination:
▪​ Analysis of security features in banknotes, passports, and other official
documents (e.g., holograms, watermarks, security threads, microprinting).
o​ Cross-Cut and Shredded Document Examination (Reconstruction):
▪​ Reconstruction of shredded documents for investigative purposes.

Activities:

●​ Class discussion: What are some real-world examples where each division of questioned
document examination would be crucial?
●​ Short case studies: Provide scenarios and ask students to identify which division(s) would
be most relevant.

Unit 2: Basic Requirements in Questioned Document Examination

Learning Objectives:

●​ Identify the essential elements for a valid questioned document examination.

●​ Understand the importance of proper handling and preservation of questioned documents.
●​ Differentiate between questioned documents and standard documents.

Content:

1.​ Sufficient Quantity and Quality of Questioned Documents:

o​ Need for adequate amount of questioned material for reliable comparison.
o​ Clarity, legibility, and completeness of the document.
2.​ Availability of Authentic Standards (Specimens/Exemplars):
o​ Importance of Standards: The cornerstone of comparison. Without reliable
standards, no definitive conclusions can be drawn.
o​ Types of Standards:
▪​ Collected/Procured Standards: Documents written in the normal course
of business or personal activity (e.g., checks, letters, applications). Ideally
dated close to the questioned document.
▪​ Requested/Dictated Standards: Samples prepared at the request of an
investigator, usually under controlled conditions.

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 o​ Factors Affecting Standards:
▪​ Number of samples (ideally 10-20 or more for handwriting).
▪​ Contemporaneousness (written around the same time as the questioned
document).
▪​ Similar writing conditions (e.g., writing instrument, surface, position).
▪​ Non-conspicuousness (writer unaware of comparison).
3.​ Proper Handling and Preservation of Documents:
o​ Chain of Custody: Maintaining a strict record of who handled the document and
when.
o​ Minimizing Contamination: Avoiding fingerprints, smudges, tears, or additions.
o​ Packaging: Using proper envelopes (paper, not plastic, to prevent condensation)
and securing them.
o​ Storage: Protecting from extreme temperatures, humidity, and light.
o​ Photography: Documenting the condition of the document before any
examination.
4.​ Competent Examiner:
o​ Training, experience, and expertise in the field.
o​ Adherence to ethical guidelines and scientific principles.

Activities:

●​ Role-playing: Students demonstrate proper handling and packaging of a "questioned

document."
●​ Discussion: Why is it crucial to have contemporaneous standards? What are the potential
pitfalls of relying on non-contemporaneous standards?

Unit 3: Scientific Method in Questioned Document Examination (PNP-CLO SOP)

Learning Objectives:

●​ Explain the general principles of the scientific method.

●​ Describe the specific steps of the scientific method as applied in questioned document
examination, referencing the PNP-CLO Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
●​ Understand the significance of documentation and report writing in forensic examination.

Content:

1.​ Introduction to the Scientific Method:

o​ Observation, Hypothesis, Experimentation, Analysis, Conclusion.
o​ Importance of objectivity, reproducibility, and peer review.
2.​ PNP-CLO Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for Questioned Document
Examination (General Principles):
o​ While specific, detailed PNP-CLO SOPs are proprietary and may not be publicly
available in full, the general scientific principles they adhere to can be discussed.
o​ Receipt and Recording of Evidence:
▪​ Strict adherence to chain of custody.
▪​ Detailed inventory and description of submitted items.
▪​ Assignment of case numbers.
o​ Preliminary Examination/Orientation:

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 ▪​ Initial visual inspection of questioned and standard documents.
▪​ Determining the nature of the examination requested.
▪​ Formulating an initial hypothesis.
o​ Detailed Examination/Analysis:
▪​ Comparison: The core of the examination. Meticulous side-by-side
comparison of characteristics (e.g., letter formations, connecting strokes,
pressure, alignment, size, spacing, ink characteristics, paper features).
▪​ Identification of Class and Individual Characteristics:
▪​ Class Characteristics: Features common to a group (e.g., a
specific font style, general writing system).
▪​ Individual Characteristics: Unique features developed over time
by an individual (e.g., specific letter quirks, pen lifts, tremors).
▪​ Techniques Used: (Referencing methods that would be part of an SOP)
▪​ Microscopic examination.
▪​ Light sources (UV, IR, oblique lighting).
▪​ Digital imaging enhancement.
o​ Evaluation and Interpretation:
▪​ Assessing the significance of observed similarities and differences.
▪​ Weighing the evidence to form an opinion.
o​ Conclusion/Opinion Formulation:
▪​ Expressing findings clearly and concisely.
▪​ Levels of conclusions (e.g., identification, strong probability, no
conclusion, elimination).
o​ Documentation and Report Writing:
▪​ Comprehensive recording of all observations, measurements, and
analytical steps.
▪​ Preparation of a formal forensic report detailing methods, findings, and
conclusions.
▪​ Inclusion of photographic exhibits.
o​ Peer Review (if applicable within the CLO structure):
▪​ Internal review of findings by another qualified examiner to ensure
accuracy and impartiality.
o​ Court Testimony:
▪​ Presenting findings in a clear, understandable, and objective manner.

Activities:

●​ Case study analysis: Provide a simplified questioned document case and ask students to
outline the steps a PNP-CLO examiner would likely follow based on the scientific
method.
●​ Group exercise: Students discuss the importance of each step in the scientific method for
ensuring reliable results in forensic examination.

Unit 4: Instruments and Apparatus Used in Questioned Document Examination

Learning Objectives:
●​ Identify and describe the function of various instruments used in questioned document
examination.
●​ Understand how these tools aid in the detection of alterations, forgeries, and other
document irregularities.
Content:

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 1.​ Optical Instruments

●​ Stereomicroscope (Stereoscopic Zoom Microscopes):

o​ Purpose: Essential for magnified viewing of document features such as
handwriting, typewriting, printing, paper fibers, ink lines, and alterations. It
provides a three-dimensional view, which is crucial for observing the depth of
indentations, ink penetration, and the layering of strokes.
▪​ Used for examining line quality, pen pressure, ink characteristics, paper
fibers, minute details of handwriting, typewriting, and printing.
o​ Key Features: Variable magnification (typically 10x to 80x or more), good
working distance, and various lighting options (direct, oblique, transmitted).
●​ Magnifying Glasses/Loupes:
o​ Purpose: Used for initial, low-power examination of general features, ink
characteristics, and paper texture.
o​ Key Features: Handheld, portable, and offer fixed low magnification (e.g., 5x,
10x).

2. Lighting and Imaging Equipment

●​ Oblique Light (Side Lighting):

o​ Purpose: Used to reveal indentations (e.g., from writing on a sheet above the
questioned document), erasures, or alterations by casting shadows that highlight
surface irregularities. The light source is positioned at a low angle to the
document's surface.
●​ Transmitted Light (Backlighting):
o​ Purpose: Allows for the examination of watermarks, paper thickness variations,
and the presence of opacities or alterations that affect the paper's translucency.
The light source is placed beneath the document.
●​ Ultraviolet (UV) Light:
o​ Purpose: Detects alterations, erasures, differences in paper or ink, and the
presence of certain security features (e.g., in currency or passports). Some inks or
paper components may fluoresce under UV light, while others may absorb it,
revealing discrepancies.
o​ Types: Longwave UV (UVA) and Shortwave UV (UVC) lamps.
●​ Infrared (IR) Light and Infrared Video Spectral Comparator (VSC):
o​ Purpose: Crucial for differentiating inks that appear similar to the naked eye but
have different spectral properties. It can reveal overwritten or obliterated text,
detect alterations, and examine charred or stained documents.
o​ VSC: A sophisticated instrument that combines various light sources (UV, visible,
IR) with a camera and filters to analyze the spectral response of inks and paper. It
can perform ink differentiation, reveal hidden writing, and enhance faint
impressions. Used for ink differentiation, detecting alterations, security feature
analysis, and deciphering faded/obliterated text.
●​ Digital Cameras and Imaging Software:
o​ Purpose: For documenting findings, capturing high-resolution images under
various lighting conditions, and for further digital enhancement and analysis.
o​ Software: Can be used for image manipulation (without altering the original
evidence), measurement, and comparison.
o​ High-Resolution Digital Cameras: For documentation and detailed
photographic analysis.

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 o​ Image Processing Software: For enhancement, contrast adjustment, filtering, and
measurement.
3. Measurement and Comparison Tools
●​ Rulers, Grids, and Protractors:
o​ Purpose: For precise measurements of handwriting characteristics (e.g., slant,
spacing, height), typewriting alignment, and other document features.
●​ Comparison Microscope:
o​ Purpose: While less common than in firearms examination, a comparison
microscope can be used to compare two samples side-by-side, such as two ink
lines or paper fibers, at the same magnification.
4. Chemical and Physical Analysis Tools (Limited Scope for Field Examination)
●​ Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA):
o​ Purpose: Non-destructive method used to detect indented writing (impressions
made on a sheet of paper from writing on a sheet above it). It works by applying
an electrostatic charge and then dusting with toner, which adheres to the indented
areas.
●​ Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC):
o​ Purpose: (More for laboratory analysis) Used to separate and identify the
chemical components of inks, helping to determine if different inks were used on
a document or if an ink matches a known sample. This is a destructive test.
●​ Other Specialized Tools (Brief mention):
o​ Paper chromatography (for destructive ink analysis, if permitted).
o​ Spectrophotometers (for detailed ink analysis).
o​ Specialized software for handwriting analysis (less common for individual
identification, more for research/training).
Activities:
●​ Video demonstration: Show short clips or images of each instrument in use.
●​ "Guess the Tool": Provide a scenario (e.g., "You need to determine if an erasure was
made on a document without damaging it. Which tool would you use?") and ask students
to identify the appropriate instrument.

Assessment:
●​ Quizzes: Short quizzes after each unit to check comprehension of key terms and
concepts.
●​ Case Study Analysis: Students analyze a simulated questioned document case and apply
the learned principles.
●​ Practical Exercise (Simulated): Students demonstrate proper handling of documents
and identify the type of standards needed for a given scenario.
●​ Final Exam: Comprehensive exam covering all module content, including
multiple-choice, true/false, and essay questions.
References/Further Reading:
●​ Huber, R. A., & Headrick, A. M. (1999). Handwriting Identification: Facts and
Fundamentals. CRC Press.
●​ Morris, R. (2000). Forensic Handwriting Identification: Fundamental Concepts and
Principles. Academic Press.
●​ Hilton, O. (1992). Scientific Examination of Questioned Documents. CRC Press.
●​ Philippine National Police - Crime Laboratory Office (PNP-CLO) - Reference their
official guidelines/SOPs if accessible and relevant (Note: Specific internal SOPs are
usually restricted, but general principles of their scientific approach can be inferred from
their public statements on forensic examinations).

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 ●​ ASTM International Standards: Various standards related to questioned document
examination (e.g., document preservation, handwriting comparison).
Instructor Notes:
●​ Emphasize the practical application of the concepts by incorporating real-world examples
and case studies (without revealing sensitive information).
●​ If possible, arrange for a guest speaker from the PNP Crime Laboratory or a private
questioned document examiner to share their experiences.
●​ Encourage critical thinking and ethical considerations throughout the module, particularly
concerning the interpretation of evidence and report writing.
●​ Stress the importance of objectivity and avoiding bias in forensic examinations.

Techniques in the Examination of Questioned Documents

The examination of questioned documents involves a systematic application of various
techniques to analyze different aspects of the document.
1. Handwriting Analysis
●​ Comparison with Known Samples (Exemplars): The cornerstone of handwriting
examination. Questioned writing is compared against a sufficient number of genuine
writing samples from the suspected author.
●​ Characteristics for Comparison:
o​ Line Quality: Fluidity, tremors, hesitations, pen lifts.
o​ Spacing: Between letters, words, and lines.
o​ Word and Letter Formations: Size, shape, slant, connections, angles, curves.
o​ Pen Pressure: Variations in pressure, shading.
o​ Baseline Habits: Writing on, above, or below the line.
o​ Arrangement and Placement: Margins, alignment, pagination.
o​ Speed and Rhythm: Indicated by line quality and consistency.
o​ Unusual Features: Embellishments, diacritics (dots on 'i', crosses on 't').
●​ Detection of Forgery:
o​ Simulated Forgery: Copying a genuine signature/writing. Look for hesitation,
pen lifts, poor line quality, and signs of drawing rather than natural writing.
o​ Traced Forgery: Tracing over a genuine signature/writing. Look for identical
signatures, unnatural line quality, and possible indentations or carbon residues.
o​ Disguised Writing: An attempt by a person to alter their own writing to avoid
identification. Look for inconsistencies, unnatural variations, and a lack of natural
fluency.
2. Typewriting and Printing Examination
●​ Typewriter Identification:
o​ Individual Characteristics: Damaged typefaces, misalignments, uneven
impressions, clogged typefaces. These "defects" can be unique to a specific
typewriter.
o​ Class Characteristics: Type style, pitch (characters per inch).
●​ Printer Examination (Laser, Inkjet, Dot Matrix):
o​ Class Characteristics: Font type, size, toner/ink type, resolution.
o​ Individual Characteristics: Defects in printer components (e.g., toner roller
defects, inkjet nozzle clogs) that leave unique marks.
●​ Photocopy Examination:
o​ Defects: Dirt, scratches, or marks on the platen or drum of the copier can leave
unique patterns on copies.
o​ Toner Characteristics: Analysis of toner composition (though less common for
individualization).

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3. Ink and Paper Examination
●​ Ink Analysis:
o​ Visual and Microscopic Examination: Color, sheen, penetration, drying
characteristics.
o​ Infrared and UV Examination: Differentiating inks based on their spectral
properties (absorption, luminescence).
o​ Destructive Analysis (e.g., TLC): Separating ink components to determine if
different inks were used or if an ink matches a known standard. (Typically done in
a lab).
●​ Paper Analysis:
o​ Watermarks: Identification of the manufacturer and sometimes the date of
manufacture.
o​ Fiber Analysis: Microscopic examination of paper fibers to determine
composition.
o​ Physical Characteristics: Thickness, color, surface texture, presence of security
features.
o​ Alterations: Detection of erasures (mechanical or chemical), additions, or
substitutions of paper.

4. Alterations and Obliterations

●​ Erasures:
o​ Mechanical Erasures: Removal of writing by abrasion (e.g., rubber eraser).
Look for disturbed paper fibers, thinning of paper, or residual ink/pencil marks
under magnification and oblique light.
o​ Chemical Erasures: Removal of writing using chemical agents (e.g., ink
eradicators). Look for discoloration, bleaching, or staining of the paper, and often
the residue of the chemical under UV light.
●​ Obliterations:
o​ Purpose: Smearing, crossing out, or covering original writing.
o​ Techniques to Reveal: Infrared light (if the obliterating ink is transparent to IR
while the original ink is opaque), oblique light to detect indentations, or VSC.
●​ Additions:
o​ Purpose: Adding text, numbers, or signatures to a document after it was
originally created.
o​ Detection: Differences in ink, handwriting style, or paper characteristics.
Overlapping strokes can indicate sequence.
5. Indented Writing Examination
●​ Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA): The primary non-destructive method to
visualize indented writing. It can reveal impressions from several pages below the
original writing surface.
●​ Oblique Lighting: Can also reveal deeper indentations.
Topic 3: Handling of Documents and Questioned Documents
Proper handling of documents, especially questioned documents, is paramount to
preserve their integrity and ensure their admissibility as evidence in court. Mishandling can lead
to contamination, damage, or loss of crucial forensic information.
1. General Principles of Document Handling
●​ Minimize Handling: Touch the document as little as possible.
●​ Use Gloves: Always wear clean, lint-free gloves (cotton or nitrile) to prevent the transfer
of oils, fingerprints, or contaminants from your hands to the document.

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●​ Avoid Folding or Creasing: Do not fold, unfold, or crease a document unnecessarily. If
it is already folded, handle it gently and try to maintain its original state.
●​ No New Marks: Never write on, mark, or make any new additions to a questioned
document. This includes circling, underlining, or making notes directly on the document.
●​ Avoid Staples, Paperclips, or Pins: Do not attach staples, paperclips, or pins to
questioned documents, as these can create new impressions, holes, or obscure existing
evidence.
●​ No Chemical Treatment: Never apply any chemicals, powders, or liquids to a
questioned document. This can destroy existing evidence (e.g., fingerprints, ink
characteristics) and complicate future analysis.
●​ Protect from Environmental Factors: Keep documents away from direct sunlight,
excessive heat, humidity, or moisture, which can degrade paper and ink.
●​ Photograph Before Handling: If possible, photograph the document in its original state
before any significant handling or packaging.
2. Packaging and Preservation of Questioned Documents
●​ Individual Packaging: Each questioned document should be packaged individually to
prevent cross-contamination or transfer of evidence between documents.
●​ Protective Sleeves/Envelopes: Place documents in clear, transparent, acid-free protective
sleeves or large, rigid envelopes. This allows for visual inspection without direct
handling.
●​ Rigid Support: For fragile or folded documents, place them between two sheets of stiff,
clean cardboard or in a rigid document protector to prevent further damage during
transport.
●​ Seal and Label:
o​ Seal the packaging securely to prevent accidental opening or tampering.
o​ Clearly label the exterior of the package with essential information:
▪​ Case number
▪​ Date and time of collection
▪​ Location of collection
▪​ Collector's name/initials
▪​ Description of the document (e.g., "Questioned Check," "Suspect Letter")
▪​ A "DO NOT FOLD" or "FRAGILE" warning, if applicable.
●​ Chain of Custody: Maintain a strict chain of custody for all questioned documents.
Every person who handles the document must be documented, along with the date, time,
and purpose of their interaction. This ensures the integrity and admissibility of the
evidence in court.
3. Handling Specific Types of Documents
●​ Charred Documents:
o​ Extreme Fragility: Handle with extreme care, as they are very brittle.
o​ Packaging: Place in a rigid container (e.g., a box) with soft padding to prevent
movement. Do not attempt to unfold or separate pages.
o​ Transport: Transport upright and avoid any jarring movements.
●​ Wet Documents:
o​ Air Dry: If wet, carefully air dry them at room temperature, ideally by hanging
them on a line with clips or laying them flat on clean blotting paper, away from
direct heat.
o​ Avoid Smearing: Do not blot or rub, as this can smear inks.
o​ Packaging: Once dry, package as normal.
●​ Documents with Trace Evidence:

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 o​ If a document is suspected of having trace evidence (e.g., hairs, fibers,
fingerprints), handle it minimally and consult with a specialist (e.g., latent print
examiner) before extensive document examination.
o​ Package to preserve the trace evidence (e.g., in a paper bag to allow air circulation
for biological evidence).
4. Collection of Known Samples (Exemplars)
●​ Sufficiency: Collect a sufficient quantity of known writing samples (exemplars) from the
suspected author. The more samples, the better for comparison.
●​ Comparability: Exemplars should be comparable to the questioned document in terms
of:
o​ Content: Similar words, phrases, or numbers.
o​ Writing Instrument: Same type of pen/pencil.
o​ Paper: Similar paper type.
o​ Conditions: Similar writing conditions (e.g., sitting, standing, hurried,
unhurried).
o​ Date: Close in time to the questioned document's creation.
●​ Dictated vs. Collected:
o​ Collected Exemplars: Documents written in the normal course of business or
personal activity (e.g., letters, checks, applications). These are generally preferred
as they represent natural writing.
o​ Dictated Exemplars: Writing samples produced by the suspect at the request of
law enforcement. Care must be taken to ensure natural writing (e.g., dictating the
questioned text multiple times, varying the order, avoiding showing the suspect
the questioned document).

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