ALMERIA, JAYNARD BSCRIM

ESSAY ON QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

Questioned document examination compares the similarities and

differences of a questioned document based on the standard to come up an
opinion from the recorded observations (Miller, M.D., 2021). It is defined
also as forensic science discipline which the documents are possibly
questioned in a court of law (Robson Forensic, 2022). Alterations,
obliterations, paper analysis, forgery, origin, determining authenticity, or
any other obscure questions are included in examining the questioned
document. The primary purpose of these examination is to provide evidence
in crimes done such as forgery cases, anonymous letter, medical
malpractice, and white-collar crime.
In doing an examination in questioned document, it a follow a
standard which serves as a guideline in every action to do. The Scientific
Working Group for Forensic Document Examination (SWGDOC) established
21 standards. The scope of this standard are the works of an examiner. It
was published by ASTM International Standard.
The mission of SWGDOC focuses on the scope and practices of the
profession which follows a specific protocol and enhances their knowledge.
Through their mission, the examiners will achieve the goals of SWGDOC. The
goals are strengthening the performance into standards and expand the
systems through additional members in the organization to provide excellent
evidence. With these goals, an examiner will be able to correctly do all
necessary methodologies such as Low Angle Light & Photography,
Electrostatic Detection Apparatus, and Video Spectral Analysis. It used to study
the handwriting, and analysis of ink, paper, printing, typewriters to
determine the authenticity of document.
One example that applies the questioned document examination is the
Weinberger Kidnapping. Wherein, a mother found a handwritten ransom
note. The note undergoes examination which has been found out the
criminal behind the crime.
Therefore, doing an examination will lead to the validity of evidence
that will answer all questions to solve a crime.