Questioned Documents Reviewer (Forensic
Photography / Forensic Questioned Documents)
QUESTIONED DOCUMENTS
Definition
Questioned Documents (QD) is the branch of forensic science that examines documents whose authenticity,
origin, or authorship is in doubt. It involves the scientific analysis of handwriting, signatures, inks, paper,
printing methods, alterations, and other document features to determine whether a document is genuine or
fraudulent.
A questioned document is any document that is suspected of being forged, altered, counterfeit, or otherwise
disputed in legal or criminal investigations.
Objectives of Questioned Document Examination
1. Determine whether a document is genuine or forged.
2. Identify the writer of handwritten documents.
3. Determine whether alterations have been made.
4. Detect erased or obliterated writing.
5. Compare signatures for authenticity.
6. Identify the type of printer or typewriter used.
7. Determine the sequence of intersecting strokes.
8. Analyze inks, paper, and printing processes.
9. Assist courts by providing expert testimony.
Importance of Questioned Documents
Questioned document examination is important because many crimes involve written evidence. Proper
examination helps establish the authenticity of documents and identify individuals responsible for fraud or
forgery.
Examples include:
• Forged checks • Driver's licenses
• Fake IDs • Receipts
• Contracts • Business records
• Wills • Anonymous letters
• Passports
Document Examiner
A Questioned Document Examiner (QDE) is a forensic expert trained to analyze disputed documents using
scientific methods and specialized instruments.
Duties
• Examine handwriting
• Compare signatures
• Analyze inks
• Examine paper
• Detect alterations
, • Examine printed documents
• Prepare laboratory reports
• Testify in court
Common Types of Questioned Documents
Genuine Document
A document produced by its legitimate author without alteration.
Forged Document
A document falsely made or altered to deceive another person.
Anonymous Document
A document whose author is unknown.
Altered Document
A genuine document that has been modified after its creation.
Counterfeit Document
A complete imitation intended to pass as the original.
Forgery
Definition
Forgery is the making, altering, or signing of a document with the intent to deceive or defraud.
Elements of Forgery
• False making
• Material alteration
• Intent to defraud
• Legal significance
Types of Forgery
1. Simple Forgery
Writing another person's name without copying their signature style.
2. Simulated Forgery
Imitating another person's handwriting or signature.
3. Traced Forgery
Copying a genuine signature by tracing.
4. Freehand Forgery
Photography / Forensic Questioned Documents)
QUESTIONED DOCUMENTS
Definition
Questioned Documents (QD) is the branch of forensic science that examines documents whose authenticity,
origin, or authorship is in doubt. It involves the scientific analysis of handwriting, signatures, inks, paper,
printing methods, alterations, and other document features to determine whether a document is genuine or
fraudulent.
A questioned document is any document that is suspected of being forged, altered, counterfeit, or otherwise
disputed in legal or criminal investigations.
Objectives of Questioned Document Examination
1. Determine whether a document is genuine or forged.
2. Identify the writer of handwritten documents.
3. Determine whether alterations have been made.
4. Detect erased or obliterated writing.
5. Compare signatures for authenticity.
6. Identify the type of printer or typewriter used.
7. Determine the sequence of intersecting strokes.
8. Analyze inks, paper, and printing processes.
9. Assist courts by providing expert testimony.
Importance of Questioned Documents
Questioned document examination is important because many crimes involve written evidence. Proper
examination helps establish the authenticity of documents and identify individuals responsible for fraud or
forgery.
Examples include:
• Forged checks • Driver's licenses
• Fake IDs • Receipts
• Contracts • Business records
• Wills • Anonymous letters
• Passports
Document Examiner
A Questioned Document Examiner (QDE) is a forensic expert trained to analyze disputed documents using
scientific methods and specialized instruments.
Duties
• Examine handwriting
• Compare signatures
• Analyze inks
• Examine paper
• Detect alterations
, • Examine printed documents
• Prepare laboratory reports
• Testify in court
Common Types of Questioned Documents
Genuine Document
A document produced by its legitimate author without alteration.
Forged Document
A document falsely made or altered to deceive another person.
Anonymous Document
A document whose author is unknown.
Altered Document
A genuine document that has been modified after its creation.
Counterfeit Document
A complete imitation intended to pass as the original.
Forgery
Definition
Forgery is the making, altering, or signing of a document with the intent to deceive or defraud.
Elements of Forgery
• False making
• Material alteration
• Intent to defraud
• Legal significance
Types of Forgery
1. Simple Forgery
Writing another person's name without copying their signature style.
2. Simulated Forgery
Imitating another person's handwriting or signature.
3. Traced Forgery
Copying a genuine signature by tracing.
4. Freehand Forgery
