COURSE MODULE TAGOLOAN Community College

MODULE WEEK NO.4

Baluarte, Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental

Tel.No. (08822)740-835/(088)5671-215

Department of Criminology
CRIMSTCS 105: Questioned Document Examination
Semester of A.Y. 2020-2021

Introduction

Questioned Document Examination is an interesting subject to learn, it deals with the corresponding issues about
how to scrutinize a document and distinguished them if it is a document to be questioned or not. There are so many
methods and tools to be used how to determine and classify the anomalies that may occur in a particular document.

Rationale

Questioned documents are any documents that may be used as evidence in a trial, ranging from
handwritten notes to counterfeit currency to contracts. This course is designed specifically to aid
lawyers involved in cases that involve questioned documents (QD) evidence. It explains the basics
of document examination and helps litigators improve the way they present document evidence
and question witnesses.

Intended Learning Outcomes

A. Apply knowledge essential to the conduct of criminological scrutiny over the suspected
handwritten notes or any forms of document or public instruments utilized for committing
fraudulent acts; and
B. Ensure proper reliability of conducting and detecting fraudulent documents that can be used
as evidence in a trial court.
Activity

Provide at least three (3) sample photographs for each tools and equipment used for Questioned Document
Examination and label it upon attaching the photograph. (Produce it in a short bond paper covered by a
white folder)

Discussion

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Tools and Equipment used in Questioned Document Examination

Basic measuring tools, such as protractors, rulers, etc. as long as it can be used to identify the measurement
of a stroke or a pen lift or any other torts of anomalies that can be subject for examination.

Magnification, such a microscope, magnifying glass, etc. that can be used to enlarge tiny details encrypted in
a particular handwriting or type prints.

Relevant use of comparison microscope in Questioned Document Examination;

1. Superimposition – placing or laying of one document over another so that even as both are
evident, they appear as single image.
2. Juxtaposition – two evidences are shown side by side, but in one plane, having same
magnification, and still appearing as one image
3. Side by side image display – genuine articles are displayed in usual side by side position

Light Sources, such as ultraviolet lighting, transmitted lighting, oblique lighting and infrared
lighting images.

Special Instruments, modernized identification processor and other modern production used for
identifying suspicious documents.

Photographic Equipment, such as camera, lens, filters, that can produce a good quality of
comparison during magnification.

Computer Equipment, to record and keep the data that was gathered during examination and their
outputs during the activity of conduction.

Resources and Additional Resources

Jay Levinson, 2000, Questioned Documents 1st Edition

Additional Resources:

 Aquila Review Center Notes

 St. Louis Review Center Notes
 Students Compilation Notes of Questioned Document.