NCJ Number
173786
Date Published
1996
Length
235 pages
Annotation
This book discusses the practical aspects of forgery- detection as well as more sophisticated scientific analyses.
Abstract
The information should be useful not only to document examiners but also to attorneys, archivists, document dealers, autograph and manuscript collectors, and investigators. Three chapters focus on "handwriting." One chapter, entitled "The Written Word," explores the evolution of handwriting, graphology versus science, and the forensic approach to the analysis of handwriting. The second chapter addresses the examination of handwriting and typewriting. Topics covered include class versus individual characteristics, exemplars and standards, identification factors, handwriting comparison, disguised writing and printing, illegibility and decipherment, and typewriting and other mechanical forms. The third chapter on "forged writing" discusses the forger's techniques, warning signs of forgery, and detecting nonforgery fakes. Part Two focuses on "Additional Aspects" of document analysis. One chapter considers a multi- evidential approach, which encompasses provenance, internal evidence, writing materials, and scientific analyses. A chapter on macroscopic and microscopic study addresses macroscopy, microscopy, and photography. A chapter on spectral techniques discusses ultraviolet light, infrared radiation, laser technology, and photographic processes. Another chapter addresses chemical tests and instrumental analyses. Chapter notes, 92 recommended readings, and a subject index