Forensic Handwriting Analysis - Catching Handwriting Forgers

Forgery refers to writing or changing a document with the intention of defrauding others. Forensic handwriting analysts may be able to ascertain whether a document was changed or written by somebody other than the stated author, but finding out whether the writer's intention was to defraud others is the decision of a judge or jury.

Even the most meticulous and gifted forgers leave behind evidence of their work. Forensic handwriting analysts visually inspect documents with the naked eye as well as with the use of a microscope. Microscopes many times disclose sure signs of forgery.

Two of the more common techniques of forgery are tracing and freehand simulation.

Tracing refers to putting another document over an original signature and tracing its lines. Freehand simulation refers to copying a signature or handwriting sample. Both methods lead to various abnormalities in the handwriting. A trained forensic handwriting analyst is able to detect these defects. Perfectly emulating somebody else's handwriting style is a difficult task to accomplish.

A list of common clues that make forged handwritings stand out include:

• Evidence of a previous sketch--This can involve an underlying tracing of the letters, words, or signature


• Tremors in the forger's hand--When the forger tries to copy a signature or writing style, he leaves behind fine yet distinctive markings indicating shakiness or tremors in his handwriting


• Inconsistent writing speed and pen pressure


• Hesitations


• Unusual pen lifting--The forger repeatedly lifts his pen to check his handiwork.


• Patching and retouching--Fixing or adding to broken marks to make the marks look connected and therefore the handwriting more fluid


• Dull beginnings and endings

Another type of forgery is called disguised writing. Disguised writing refers to deception in which the forger tries to hide his own handwriting. Many ransom letters and letters of intimidation are written in this manner with the hope that the writer can negate ownership at a future time. Offenders sometimes try to disguise their handwriting when confronted with an incriminating letter they wrote in their own natural style of handwriting.

The next time you watch your favorite CSI TV show, you will have a better understanding of what forensic handwriting analysts look for when examining handwritten documents.

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