Handwriting examiners verify the origin and signature of documents, such as handwritten tests and credit card receipts, to determine if they were written by the same person. They must possess a bachelor’s degree, undergo two years of apprenticeship, and have excellent vision and analytical skills. They use a known document to compare handwriting and learn to distinguish unique characteristics to identify forgeries. Certification is often required, and they may be asked to testify in court.
A handwriting examiner, also known as a forensic document examiner, determines whether two or more documents were written and/or signed by the same person. These examiners are typically employed in a legal context to help courts, businesses, and government agencies verify the origin and signature of a document. Handwritten tests, credit card receipt signatures, and anonymous notes are examples of documents that frequently need to be checked. To work as a handwriting examiner, an individual must possess a bachelor’s degree and undergo two years of apprenticeship in a lab that checks questioned documents.
Handwriting examiners must follow a specific set of guidelines when examining documents. To check the handwriting of the document in question, a known document is used, the origin of which has already been established. The examiner is tasked with comparing the handwriting on the known document with that on the document in question. A full review may involve a review of printed writing, cursive writing, or in many cases is closely related to the signature on a document.
Through training, a handwriting examiner learns to distinguish the unique characteristics of a person’s handwriting. There are slight variations in an individual’s handwriting; the examiner understands how to account for these variations and identify when a forgery has occurred. In many cases, adequate sampling of known handwriting is required to accurately determine whether the document in question is similar or different.
When reviewing potentially counterfeit documents, the examiner will look at a number of factors. In the simplest case, the forger did not attempt to copy the genuine signature, resulting in direct identification of different texts. In other cases, the forger may have tried to imitate a writing style or trace a signature. The examiner should familiarize himself with the individual characteristics of the genuine writer, such as the way he forms and combines his letters.
A handwriting examiner must possess a specific set of skills. Excellent vision is a basic requirement, and vision tests are often required. The examiner must demonstrate the ability to exercise sound and objective analysis, as well as good judgment. Handwriting examiners are often asked to testify in court regarding their findings; they must be articulate and confident in high-pressure situations.
The calligraphy specialist’s job is highly specialized and often requires certification offered by various agencies. The standard requirement is a solid education in the form of a bachelor’s degree. In addition, the handwriting examiner must study as an apprentice for a period of two years under the guidance of an experienced examiner. This training involves learning the theoretical aspects of the job, as well as the practical components, which involve interacting with clients and testifying in court.
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