Inbound 3721638692459568006

UNIVERSITY OF MINDANAO
Tagum College
Department of Criminal Justice Education

Criminology Program
Physically Distanced but Academically Engaged
Self-Instructional Manual (SIM) for Self-Directed

Learning (SDL)
Course/Subject: CRI 318 Questioned Document Examination
Name of Teacher: Lea L. Legarda, RCrim
THIS SIM/SDL MANUAL IS A DRAFT VERSION ONLY; NOT

FOR REPRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTION OUTSIDE OF
ITS INTENDED USE. THIS IS INTENDED ONLY FOR THE
USE OF THE STUDENTS WHO ARE OFFICIALLY
ENROLLED IN THE COURSE/SUBJECT.
EXPECT REVISIONS OF THE MANUAL.
DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION
Mabini St., Tagum City
Davao del Norte
Telefax: (084)655-9591 Local 120
Table of Contents
page
Part 1. Course Outline and Policies ...................................................... 4

Part 2. Instruction Delivery
CC’s Voice ............................................................................…….. 8
Course Outcomes .......................................................................... 8
Big Picture A: Unit Learning Outcomes ....................................... 9
Big Picture in Focus:ULOa ……………………………………………. 9
Metalanguage .......................................................................... 9
Essential Knowledge ............................................................... 11
Self-Help .................................................................................... 20
Let’s Check .................................................................................... 21
Let’s Analyze ......................................................................... 21
In a Nutshell .................................................................................... 22
Q&A List .................................................................................... 22
Keywords Index ......................................................................... 23
Big Picture B: Unit Learning Outcomes ..................................... 23

Metalanguage .......................................................................... 23
Self-Help .................................................................................... 31
Let’s Check .................................................................................... 31
Let’s Analyze ......................................................................... 32
In a Nutshell .................................................................................... 33
Q&A List .................................................................................... 33
Keywords Index ......................................................................... 33
Big Picture C: Unit Learning Outcomes ....................................... 34

Metalanguage .......................................................................... 34
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Self-Help .................................................................................... 38
Let’s Check .................................................................................... 39
Let’s Analyze ......................................................................... 39
In a Nutshell .................................................................................... 40
Q&A List .................................................................................... 41
Keywords Index ......................................................................... 41
Big Picture D: Unit Learning Outcomes ....................................... 42

Metalanguage .......................................................................... 42
Self-Help .................................................................................... 47
Let’s Check .................................................................................... 47
Let’s Analyze ......................................................................... 48
In a Nutshell .................................................................................... 49
Q&A List .................................................................................... 49
Keywords Index ......................................................................... 49
Part 3. Course Schedule ......................................................................... 50

Online Code of Conduct .............................................................. 51
Monitoring of OBD and DED............................................................ 53
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Course Outline: CRMTC 4L – Questioned Document Examination
Course Coordinator: Lea L. Legarda, RCrim

Email: Lea_Legarda@umindanao.edu.ph
Student Consultation: By appointment
Mobile: 0939-919-0564
Phone: (084) 808-390-3
Effectivity Date: August 2020
Mode of Delivery: Distance Education Delivery
Time Frame: 54 Hours
Student Workload: Expected Self-Directed Learning
Requisites: None
Credit: 3 units with 1 unit Laboratory
Attendance Requirements: A minimum of 100% attendance is required
at all scheduled sessions.
Course Outline Policy
Areas of Concern Details

Contact and Non-contact Hours This 3-unit course self-instructional manual is
designed for distance learning mode of
instructional delivery. The expected number of
hours will be 54 including the supplemented
traditional contact and/or social media platform
(if necessary).
Assessment Task Submission Submission of assessment tasks shall be on 3rd,

5th, 7th and 9th week of the term. The assessment
paper shall be attached with a cover page
indicating the title of the assessment task (if the
task is performance), the name of the course
coordinator, date of submission and name of the
student. The document should be emailed to the
course coordinator. It is also expected that you
already paid your tuition and other fees before
the submission of the assessment task.
If the assessment task is done in real time

through the features in the Quipper Learning
Management System, the schedule shall be
arranged ahead of time by the course
coordinator.
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Since this course is included in the licensure

examination for criminologist, you will be required
to take the Multiple- Choice Question exam
inside the University. This should be scheduled
ahead of time by your course coordinator. This is
non-negotiable for all licensure-based programs.
Turnitin To ensure honesty and authenticity, all
Submission (if assessment tasks are required to be submitted
necessary) through Turnitin with a maximum similarity
index of 30% allowed. This means that if your
paper goes beyond 30%, the students will either
opt to redo her/his paper or explain in writing
addressed to the course coordinator the reasons
for the similarity. In addition, if the paper has
reached more than 30% similarity index, the
student may be called for a disciplinary action in
accordance with the University’s OPM on
Intellectual and Academic Honesty.
Please note that academic dishonesty such as

cheating and commissioning other students or
people to complete the task for you have severe
punishments (reprimand, warning, expulsion).
Penalties for Late The score for an assessment item submitted
Assignments/Assessme after the designated time on the due date,
nts without an approved extension of time, will be
reduced by 5% of the possible maximum score
for that assessment item for each day or part day
that the assessment item is late.
However, if the late submission of assessment

paper has a valid reason, a letter of explanation
should be submitted and approved by the course
coordinator. If necessary, you will also be
required to present/attach evidences.
Return of Assessment tasks will be returned to you two (2)
Assignments/ weeks after the submission. This will be returned
Assessments by email or via Quipper portal.
For group assessment tasks, the course

coordinator will require some or few of the
students for online or virtual sessions to ask
clarificatory questions to validate the originality of
the assessment task submitted and to ensure
that all the group members are involved.
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Assignment Resubmission You should request in writing addressed to the

course coordinator his/her intention to resubmit
an assessment task. The resubmission is
premised on the student’s failure to comply with
the similarity index and other reasonable
grounds such as academic literacy for other
reasonable circumstances e.g. illness, accidents
financial constraints.
Re-marking of Assessment You should request in writing addressed to the
Papers and Appeal program coordinator your intention to appeal or
contest the score given to an assessment task.
The letter should explicitly explain the
reasons/points to contest the grade. The
program coordinator shall communicate with the
students on the approval and disapproval of the
request.
If disapproved by the course coordinator, you

can elevate your case to the program head or
the dean with the original letter of request. The
final decision will
come from the dean of the college.
Grading System Your grades will be based on the following:
Examinations
First to Third 30%
Final 30% = 60%
Class Participations
Quizzes 10%
Assignments 5%
Research/Requirements 15%
Oral Recitation 10% = 40%
Total = 100%
Submission of the final grades shall follow the

usual University system and procedures.
Preferred Referencing Style Depends on the discipline; if uncertain or
inadequate, use the general practice of the
APA 7th Edition.
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Student Communication You are required to create an email account

which is a requirement to access the Quipper
portal. Then, the course coordinator shall enroll
the students to have access to the materials and
resources of the course. All communication
formats: chat, submission of assessment tasks,
request, etc. shall be through the portal and
other university recognized platforms.
You can also meet the course facilitator in

person through the scheduled face to face
sessions to raise your issues and concerns.
For students who have not created their student

email, please contact the course coordinator or
program head.
Contact Details of the Dean Gina Fe G. Israel, EdD
Email:
deansofficetagum@umindanao.edu.ph
Phone: 0915 832 5092 / 0909 994 2314
Contact Details of the Program Jun Mark A. Asis, MSCrim
Head Email:
makoyasis@gmail.com
Phone: 0938 493 1993
Students with Special Needs Students with special needs shall communicate
with the course coordinator about the nature of
his or her special needs. Depending on the
nature of the need, the course coordinator with
the approval of the program coordinator may
provide alternative assessment tasks or
extension of the deadline of submission of
assessment tasks. However, the alternative
assessment tasks should still be in the service of
achieving the desired course learning outcomes.
Library Contact lictagum@umindanao.edu.ph
0927 395 1639
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Course Information – see/download course syllabus in the Quipper LMS
CC’s Voice: Hello there! Good day! Welcome to this course CRMTC 4L:
Questioned. As a criminology student it is imperative to
gain this literacy regarding Questioned Document
examination as it is one of the vital aspects that are needed
in law enforcement particularly on cases involving falsified
documents and checks. The non-availability of examiner on
cases involving forensic evidence examination will lead into
confusion rather than in understanding the truth of the
evidence in dispute. This is one of the perennial roots of
justice delayed and justice denied. Questioned Document
Examination plays a vital role in the speedy administration
of justice as it will guide the investigators in the solution of
crimes in a scientific way.
CO As a student of this course you are expected to explain the

importance of Questioned Document Examination in the field
of law enforcement in our country and use the various
laboratory equipment necessary in the examination of
documents; checks, and allied matter.
Let us begin!
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Big Picture A
Week 1-3: Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO): At the end of the unit, you are
expected to
a. Discuss the relevance of questioned document examination as well as the

role of practicing questioned document examiners. This includes the
service paradigm on questioned document examination.
Big Picture in Focus: ULOa. Discuss the relevance of

questioned document examination as well as the role of
practicing questioned document examiners. This
includes the service paradigm on questioned document
examination.
Metalanguage
The following are terms to be remembered as we go through in studying this
unit. Prior to understanding questioned document, a definition of terms related to this
field must be understood and emphasized. Please refer to these definitions as
supplement in case you will encounter difficulty in understanding the basic concepts of
Ballistics.
1. Forensic is a term that is used to denote to sciences that is used in an

investigation in order to elucidate legal questions.
2. Document is any material that has symbols, signs, numbers, or letters
that conveys meaning to someone.
3. Expert Witness is the one who, although does not have the personal
knowledge about the case, but because of their expertise in a certain
field such as Questioned Document Examination are allowed to testify in
court in order to give their expert opinion about a certain evidence.
4. Questioned Document Examination is the act of making close and
critical study of any document – questioned, disputed or attacked,
necessary to discover the facts about them.
5. Questioned Document Examiner analyzes any questioned document
and is capable of more than just questions of authorship, limited only by
their access to laboratory equipment.
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6. Historical Dating involves the verification of age and worth of a

document or object, sometimes done by a document examiner, and can
gets as complicated as Carbon-14 dating.
7. Fraud Investigator this work often overlaps with that of the document
examiner and focuses on the money trail and criminal intent.
8. Paper and Ink Specialist is a public or private experts who date, type,
source, and/ or catalogue various types of paper, watermarks, ink,
printing/ copy/ fax machines, computer cartridges, etc., using chemical
methods.
9. Forgery Specialist is a public or private experts who analyze altered,
obliterated, changed, or doctored documents and photos using infrared
lightning, expensive spectrography equipment, or digital enhancement
techniques.
10. Handwriting Analyst is usually a psychology expert who assesses
personality trait from handwriting samples.
11. Typewriting Analyst is an expert on the origin, make and model used in
typewritten material.
12. Computer Crime Investigator is an emerging group that relates to QDE
through some common investigative and testimonial procedures.
13. Comparison is a process or act undertaken in Q.D.E in which two or
more items are set side by side to weight their identifying qualities.
14. Collation is the ordering or assembling of detailed results of critical
comparison of questioned documents, or a unified result of detailed
comparison between different items or forms of information.
15. Opinion is a technical term used in QDE which may refer to the
document examiner’s conclusion.
16. Natural Variation is the normal or usual deviations found between
repeated specimen of any individual handwriting or in the product of any
type writer.
17. Natural Writing is any specimen of writing executed normally without
any attempt to control or alter its identifying habits and its usual quality or
execution.
18. R.A 6506 An Act Creating The Board Of Examiners For Criminologists
In The Philippines And For Other Purposes
19. Code of Ethics is a guide or set of principles that helps organizations in
practicing their profession with integrity and morality.
20. Rebuttal is a contradiction with the findings of the opposing party.
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Essential Knowledge
The following are basic concept of Questioned Document that may be useful for you
to understand this field of expertise. The said concepts might be confusing or difficult as a
beginner but at the later part of this unit would be of great help for you to understand the
nature of its existence. Please note that you are not limited to exclusively refer to these
resources. Thus, you are expected to utilize other books, research articles and other
resources that are available in the university’s library e.g. ebrary, search.proquest.cometc.,
and even online tutorial websites.
1. Document is simply defined as any material thing that conveys a

meaning and message to someone. It covers a wide and deep
understanding in its applicability and various types of making to
ultimate usefulness to somebody or anybody. The conveyance of
message and meaning started from marks or symbols which most
likely by made of engravings that constitute records of ancient
practices on documentation. Paper document follows when the first
paper was made from a papyrus of Egypt for writing purposes.
Writing ink was likewise invented in China. All of these were part of
evolution regarding manifestation and recording of documents by its
making.
2. Questioned Document is defined as one in which its genuineness or

originality is being disputed while controversies and acceptance are
uncertain and still subject to examination for confirmation of
authenticity or falsity. If the document is being questioned, it is
automatically unacceptable to any interested parties who are
concerned to the effect of the document. Documents are questioned
particularly in court proceedings because their significance as
evidence in a particular case.
The very essential problems are the basis to prove the authenticity or
falsity of a document being disputed or questioned in a particular
issue of the case. This is always a perennial problem that parties
involved in the issues establish a dispute. If the status of the issues
involving a questioned document is already elevated in court
proceedings, then the document in questioned will become an
ultimate evidence to solve the issues involved in the case. the next
step is to find a solution regarding matters that surround the
questioned document and to address the issues which tend to prove
one’s claim or defense. Subsequently, it requires an examination in
order to prove the authenticity or falsity of the document being
questioned. Whether the document in question is not in the status of
evidence in court litigation proceedings, it is still necessary that
certainty and clarity of the document must be well-established. Such
examination may contribute to speedy resolution of cases among
interested parties to avoid disputes, confusion, and misunderstanding
in order to attain or reach possible amicable settlements so as to
avoid further court litigation.
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3. Roots of Questioned Document. During the 1890's, handwriting

identification in the United States began to take root when scientific
methods and techniques were introduced. The forensic document
examiner now applies in his daily work the use of microscopy,
chemistry, laboratory instrumentation and digital photography. Many
spurious documents have been exposed through the years with this
forensic and practical science. Albert Osborne is considered as the
Father of Questioned Document. In 1910, he published his book
“Questioned Documents” on identification of handwriting which
became the cornerstone of questioned document examination in the
US.
4. Applicable Tools and Equipments in Questioned Document

Examination
• Magnifying Lens
• Macro Lens
• Comparison Microscope
• Digital Shadowgraph
• Photo Enlarger
• Chemical Solution
• Typewriter Measurement Plate
• Handwriting Measuring Test Plates
• Ultraviolet Light
• Digital Optical Comparator
• Scanner
• Computer
• Optical Lens
5. Five Subject Matter in Questioned Document.

• Signature Identification
• Handwriting Identification
• Typewriting Identification and Computer Prints Verification
• Alterations
• Counterfeiting
6. Role of Practicing Questioned Document Examiners. The

questioned document examiner’s role as expert witness in court is to
enlighten problem of proof being submitted through written reports
and illustration charts to justify conclusions or opinions. He will
present the truth of the matter to aid in the administration of justice in
the proceeding of the case and his opinion will be one of the bases of
the court decision involving questioned document evidence.
7. Validity of Practice. Questioned document practices are now

professionalized and being accepted under court jurisdiction or quasi
judicial body.
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8. As such, criminologists who practice questioned document

examination and having acquired adequate training and education
are considered as expert witness and may render opinion regarding
questioned document examination that they conducted. Their opinion
as such may be admissible in court under the Opinion Rule on our
Rules of Evidence. Anybody who will practice questioned document
examination without holding a professional license is prohibited to
perform said examination particularly if it is sought to be used in any
legal form.
9. Ethical Practice. The practice of QDE lies in the criminology

profession and is regulated by ethical and moral practices. Once the
practice is unethical and/or immoral, it will lead to non-validity of
practicing. There is a need for a Code of Professional Ethics in order
to uphold the integrity of the profession. It is implied that professional
practices in our country is regulated by ethics of the respective
professions.
10. Professional Practices of Questioned Document Examination.

Practice on QDE is professionalized by the professional regulation
commission and widely admitted in the Philippine legal system.
Therefore, anybody who will practice QDE w/o appropriate license in
the profession will be considered to have violated the enabling law of
which questioned document examination practices covered.
11. Utilization of Questioned Document Examiner. Utility of

questioned documents examiners in a particular issue is sometimes
phenomenal if documents for evidence being disputed can be
subjected for examination by situation of surprise or circumstances.
Likewise, it would be non-phenomenal if the document for evidence
being disputed has established a symptom of falsity or authenticity
prior to be used during filing and manifestation of cases. These
factors of utilizing questioned document examiners are inevitable
depending to the nature and situation of the case during the
proceedings. Significantly, this will bring to a litigant an interest in
asserting and expedite litigation proceedings particularly if the case is
on the verge of winning or losing.
Finally, questioned document examiners as expert witnesses, will

greatly contribute in the speedy administration of justice in cases
involving questioned documents. It is settled that the relative weight
of the opinions of experts by and large depends on the value of
assistance and guidance they furnish the court in the determination of
the issues involved. Although courts are not ordinarily bound by
expert testimonies, they may place whatever weight they choose on
such testimonies in accordance with the facts of the case.
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12. Moral Obligation of Practicing Questioned Document Examiner.

Every practicing questioned document examiner is deemed to be
morally upright, to be dignified, and to uphold the ethical standards
and highest integrity of the profession. He shall always keep decent
in the reception of documents, conduct of examination, and disposal
of examination findings. He must highly observe the definite
understanding of what is moral and legal. He must delineate his
practice against immoral and illegal, that will adversely affect the
integrity of his professional practice in particular, and the interest of
the public in general. Questioned document examiners must not be
suppressed by factors of influence leading to malpractices. If
legitimate practices will be observed by questioned documents
examiners in the conduct and performance of their practice, such will
be the realization of questioned document examiners’ obligation of
being morally and legally upright.
13. Distinction of Government and Private Questioned Document

Examiners. Present practices of questioned document examination
are distinct by description of service availability, whether government
or private questioned document examiners.
14. The Government Questioned Document Examiners. These

examiners are available in government-run crime laboratories such
as the Philippine National Police, the National Bureau of
Investigation, and other law enforcement agencies with similar
services rendered for judicial administration. Likewise, the
government examiners still dominate the examination services due to
decentralization and service availability to the respective local offices.
However, reception for examination and issuance of examination
findings are bureaucratic because it requires approval of the
supervising officer and head of offices aside from being the
examiners who render opinion in their professional capacity. This
procedure in the government is standard and legitimate policy of the
agency or office wherein official request has been duly addressed.
They may practice in private capacity provided if permitted by their
respective agency in compliance with the civil service course.
15. The Private Questioned Document Examiners. Beginning 1988

after the first criminology licensure examination, questioned
document examination is professionalized under that criminology
profession by virtue of pertinent provisions of R.A 6506. This enabling
law was enacted on July 1, 1972. Unfortunately, the law was
neglected for implementation due to the declaration and
implementation of martial law by President Ferdinand E. Marcos.
Upon assumption of President Corazon C. Aquino as head of our
government, this law was given preferential attention to its effect. The
practices of questioned document examination are already open to
private practitioners provided: they must be duly licensed
criminologist being regulated by
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the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). The practicing

private questioned document examiner should pass the criminology
licensure examination, secure license registration as criminologist
and pay professional tax. These are the basic requirements that must
be complied by a private questioned document examiner in order for
him to establish legitimate validity in his practice of profession to
serve the public in judicial administration.
16. Distinction of Questioned Document Examiner and Questioned

Document Expert Witness. Anybody conducting questioned
document examination whether he is a holder of professional license
as criminologist is considered as an examiner. He may conduct
examination and guide the interested parties by his technical opinion
whether the disputed document being examined is genuine or
falsified. In this stage, said person practicing questioned document
examination is still considered as examiner by status. He may be
presented by the qualifying counsel to the witness stand pending any
objection or rejection of the adverse party before the presiding judge.
If an expert witness who is a licensed criminologist has been
presented for qualification by the counsel and permitted by the court
to testify, it is an indication that said expert witness is substantially
qualified.
17. Consultant on Questioned Document Examination. Consultant on

QDE must possess an appropriate license under the criminology
profession. Said license is regulated under professional rules. Under
the rules, anybody who will engage in these practices must be a
registered criminologist. On the other hand, consultants in QDE are
persons who will engage in these services and are open to the public.
They render examination on questioned documents and issue their
findings as to the authenticity or falsity on documents being disputed.
This will likewise ensure that the public will not be deprived of legal
interest to attain speedy court litigation proceedings and
manifestations in filing appropriate cases. These practices are
included under pertinent provisions of R.A 6506.
18. Limitations of Questioned Document Examination Practices. The

practice of QDE primarily lies under the Code of Ethics of criminology
profession. A questioned document examiner must understand that in
the disposal of his being a responsible criminology professional, he is
under his professional code of ethics. He must understand that his
conduct professionally, both in public and in private, he must show an
example of utmost stability, fidelity, and morality. He must elevate the
standing of the profession in the public mind with confidence, integrity
and honesty. He must also emphasize his good attitude and conduct
towards his profession and the public.
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19. The Service Paradigm on Questioned Document Examination.

Prior to flowchart on servicing the public, it is highly understood that
there are three major stakeholders on the services of questioned
document examination: the litigant, the legal counsel and the
presiding judge. First, the litigant who is considered as the one
affected in the outcome of the examination and most interested party
of the document being disputed. Secondly, the legal counsel serving
the litigant who ensures the winning of the case at the most possible
means. Lastly, the presiding judge will determine to appreciate or
reject the services of the questioned document examiner to a
particular proceedings of the case. In most instances, the litigants
referred legal matters to their legal counsel, while the lawyers
referred the evidence to the criminologist for document examination.
The legal counsel likewise will interpret the result of the examination
conducted by the criminologist for possible evidence utilization in
order to attain possible favorable court decisions. It will indeed be
appreciated or rejecting by the judge in deciding the case.
significantly, lawyers often contact questioned document examiners
in behalf of their clients in the event that the court order is not yet
acted. If the examination reports of the examiners will warrant the
need for a court hearing, a subpoena to questioned document
examiners will be issued for his appearance and court testimony.
SERVICE FLOW CHART
Court Litigant QD Examiner Legal Counsel Court
Request Request Request Request

needs needs needs needs
initial initial initial initial
findings findings findings findings
before before before before
filing of the filing of the filing of the filing of the
case. case. case. case.
20. CLASSES OF QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION. The

disclosure on examination of document will reveal conclusion or
opinion whether it will result to falsity or authenticity. Once a
document is completely finished by its making and any changes
either deliberate or accidental will indeed state of inconsistencies.
The factor of discovery will correctly evaluate to put the document
into real situation whether it was a product of deliberate intent or
accidental by nature.
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20.1. Handwriting Identification

It is common that handwriting of an individual person may be an
object of forgery and falsification. It is likewise common that there are
persons who used to deny their handwritings particularly in signing
documents. This is called as a denial of writing execution. There are
several instances that handwriting execution of the individual person
is utilized on anonymous manner in order to hide the identity of being
unknown. Whether the handwriting execution is genuine or falsified, it
will always create fraud and deception that will create adverse effect
to the victim. It is indeed that characteristics of handwriting
executions are an individual property of a particular person which can
be found prominent, consistent, and significant to one person of
handwriting execution.
The principle of handwriting identification is on the basis of similarity.

It derives from the fact that no two handwriting executions of an
individual person is absolutely identical or alike in terms of
geometric figure. It is implied that handwriting execution with
absolute identity will constitute a definite forgery. A strong basis for
handwriting identification if both standard and questioned specimen
will show more sufficiency of repeated handwriting
characteristics within primary controlling pattern which will be
indicative to an opinion of writing execution by one and the
same person. While a strong basis for handwriting identification both
standard and questioned specimen will show more sufficiency of
divergences beyond primary controlling pattern will be
indicative to an opinion of writing execution by different
persons.
It is necessary that identification of handwriting should be understood

by interested parties as to explanation and descriptive illustration of
the examination conducted by the examiners. It should be well
explained and reflected in the comparative examination through
comparison with the aid of enlarged photographic representation. The
explanation should be well-illustrated and stipulated to the
examination report from comprehensive exam description to
tabulation and specification.
20.2. Holographic Writing

It is a writing found in the document being completely written by the
maker. This is very common on suicidal notes, last will and
testaments, informal communications, such as temporary receipts
and other similar documents consisting the textual content were
entirely written. Executions of handwritings are highly emphasized as
to consistency or inconsistency of writing characteristics if any.
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20.3. Typewriting Identification

The typewriting identification is based on peculiarities of fixed
impressions. The characteristics are shown by the machines in
combination of the imperfection and defects during the making or
manufacturing particularly in the total assembly of the typewriter’s
face or fonts by the class characteristics but will individually differ in
terms of detailed characteristics as product of individual unit defects.
In identification of typewriting, it will be guided by typewriting test

plates that will determine the fixation of standing position, print
emphasis, sizes, spaces, alignment of typewriting impressions that
can be found in the document. Absolute comparative identity will lead
to authenticity as the source of typewriting was originated by one and
the same typewriter. While showing of difference on standing
position, print emphasis, sizes, spaces and alignments will lead to
falsity as the source of typewriting was originated from different
typewriters.
20.4. Examination. Detection, and Identification on Forgeries and

Falsifications.
The result of examination, detection, and identification in order to
determine falsity and authenticity is to establish findings and opinion
as to the truth of the matter on the examination being assessed or
evaluated, while discovery of abnormality or normality on the part of
detection, and distinct for recognition in cases on identification.
20.5. the examination is a result of assessment of specimens being

checked particularly for comparison in order to attain illustrative
findings being examined by reflecting the characteristics’
interpretation among specimen as subject of comparison. This may
involve two or more specimens being described as standard and
questioned specimens.
20.6. Detection
Detection is a discovery of characteristics or contents found on the
document as object of dispute to a particular document whose
authenticity or falsity is challenged. This is common on document not
subject for comparative examination but solely the defect or
aberration of the document is within the limit of the space of such
document by virtue of alterations, physical change, substitutions or
insertions, as well as obliterations and other forms of imitation or
counterfeiting. It means controversies are exclusively found in one
document alone.
20.7. Identification
Identification is the specific approach in determining the
characteristics of individuality. It simply means that determining falsity
or authenticity is emphasized the high identifying value. This is
classified to establish distinction and specific description to support
simplified understanding of persons interested in knowing truth or
falsity or authenticity.
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21. RESPONSIBILITIES OF A QD EXAMINER AS EXPERT WITNESS

▪ Strive constantly to improve professional standing – this can
be done by association with others of the same profession,
keeping abreast of the literatures and by engaging in research
and development.
▪ Must be certain of his technical conclusion – validity of a
conclusion is affirmed by thorough examination of the date
submitted for examination and additional supporting evidence is
uncovered.
▪ Must avoid outside influences – his conclusions must be
based solely and entirely on the findings and deduced from the
examination performed.
▪ Must be fair and impartial on the witness stand – it is his duty
to present the facts as they exist. All questions from both sides
of the counsel table must be answered accurately and without
evasion.
▪ Must protect the innocent – by far the most important
decisions we are made in the laboratory, not in the courtroom.
The examiner must never lose sight of the important fact that he
must not only work to convict the guilty, but he must strive with
equal vigor to clear the innocent.
22. RECOMMENDED TRAITS OF A DOCUMENT EXAMINER

• Excellent eyesight – required in order to see fine details of the
material he/she examines.
• Pass a form of blindness test – in order to ensure he is not
suffering from the condition of being unable to tell apart two
similarly-appearing, yet different items.
• Normal color perception – in order to differentiate and avoid
confusion in color shade.
• Bachelor of Science degree – in order to work in an objective
manner bestowing necessary biological, physical and chemical
knowledge.
• Training apprenticeship – in order to perform with great
confidence, efficiency and effectiveness.
23. MATERIALS FROM WHICH DOCUMENTS ARE MADE. Documents

are generally prepared with the combination of the following three
elements:
a. Paper
b. Ink
c. Writing Instrument
PAPER. The earliest form of material on which writing was placed

were the skins of animals called parchment or vellum. The words
paper comes from the plant called Papyrus. (Shown below is a photo
of a papyrus plant before and after being processed into a paper
taken from google.com)
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INK. Some authorities consider that the earliest ink was from a
vegetable varnish. Undoubtedly, the oldest type of ink was
invented by the Chinese thousands of years ago. The Chinese
were given no credit for its invention in the name by which it is
commonly known as Indian Ink.
WRITING INSTRUMENT. Paper and ink do not compose a

document unless some symbols, markings or writings are
imprinted therein. The instrument used to form marks or
symbols on a paper is known as the writing instrument.
Self-Help: You can also refer to the sources below to help you
further understand the lesson
Mendoza, G. (2012). The questioned document examination and practices. Quezon

City, Philippines: Wiseman’s Books Trading.
Kalalang, S., & Kalalang, A. (2009), Questioned document examination: an

instructional handbook. Quezon City, Philippines: Wiseman’s Books Trading.
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Let’s Check
Let us try the following activities to check your understanding in this unit.
Activity1.Identification. In the space provided, write the term/s being asked in the
following statements: (One point each)
1. The most important quality of a Questioned Document

Examiner.
2. He is regarded as the Father of Questioned Document.
3. The term document is derived from this Latin word.
______ 4. This refers to the discovery of characteristics or
contents found on the document as object of dispute to a particular document
whose authenticity or falsity is challenged
5. The instrument used to form marks or symbols on
a paper.
6.This person is considered as the most skillful forger of
his time.
7. The most convenient tool and handy in conducting
plenary examination for initial findings purposes.
8. It contains a series of microscopic lenses of different
magnifications that can be used in examining documents to determine specific
details for identification.
9. It is also called “photo printer” in photography parlance
that can be produce desired size being needed.
10. These are instruments used to determine the
standing and slanting position as well as the capital letter frequency of the
handwriting executions.
Let’s Analyze
Let us try the following activities to know how deep your understanding about
the topics of this unit.
1. Discuss narratively the five subject matters in Questioned Document

Examination.
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
2. Explain the importance of questioned document examination in criminal
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investigation.
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
In a Nutshell
Please refer to the laboratory manual:
Activity no. 1
Activity no. 2
Q&A List
In this section you are going to list what boggles you in this unit. You may
indicate your questions but noting you have to indicate the answers after your question
is being raised and clarified. You can write your questions below.
Questions/Issues Answers
1.
2.
3.
4.
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5.
Keywords Index
Forensic Fraud Investigator Collation
Document Paper and Ink Specialist Opinion
Expert Witness Handwriting Analyst Natural Variation
Questioned Document Typewriting Analyst Natural Writing
Examination
Questioned Document Computer Crime R.A 6506
Examiner Investigator
Historical Dating Comparison Code of Ethics
Rebuttal Paper Ink
Writing Instrument Private Q.D Examiner Public Q.D Examiner
Big Picture B
expected to
a. Analyze the enabling laws that govern the practice of questioned

document examination and understand the development of handwriting
system.
Big Picture in Focus: ULOa. Analyze the enabling laws that

govern the practice of questioned document examination and
understand the development of handwriting system.
Metalanguage
The following are terms to be remembered as we go through in studying this unit.
Please refer to these definitions as supplement in case you will encounter difficulty in
understanding the basic concepts of Questioned Document.
1. Litigant a person involved in a lawsuit.

2. Quasi-judicial Body a non-judicial body which can interpret law.
3. Subpoena Duces Tecum is a writ ordering a person to attend a court
and bring relevant documents.
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Essential Knowledge
Before we proceed further with the study of questioned document, it is imperative to
know the history. Knowing the origin of alphabet and how it is developed is important since
letters are one of the primary aspects that makes up a specific document.
1. DEVELOPMENT OF HANDWRITING SYSTEM

1.1. Handwriting is generally defined as visible effect of bodily
movement derived from subconscious or non-awareness of
expressions in permanent mental terms of certain ideas being formed
in script during writing execution. There are three stages of writing,
namely:
• School Form Stage
• Progression Stage
• Mastery Stage
1.2. Types and Classification of Handwriting

There are seven common types of handwriting base on effect and
form:
• Block Letters or Printed Writing
• Scripted Writing
• Cursive Writing
• Legible Writing
• Illegible Writing
• Calligraphic Writing
• Cacographic Writing
2. ENABLING LAWS ON QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

PRACTICES. The practice of questioned document examination in
the Philippine Legal System is regulated. It adheres first to enabling
laws which is fundamentally structured and subsequently
supplemented by profession law to validly perform and exercise as
professional practice. The pertinent provisions of the Rules of Court
under Opinion Rule considered as an exception to the general rule
that the opinion of a witness is not admissible (Sec. 48, Rule 130,
Rules of Court). It is generally required to practitioners on forensic
evidence examination that qualifications of an expert witness must be
complied with under the rules. Specifically, Sec. 49, Rule 130 of the
Rules of Court provides, to wit:
“Sec. 49. Opinion of expert witness. – the opinion of a witness on a

matter requiring special knowledge, skill, experience or training which
he is shown to possess, may be received in evidence.”
On the other hand, another law relative on the practice of the

profession is enacted. This law is the Republic Act No. 6506. Said
law, controls and regulates the practice of questioned document
examination under the criminology profession and is regulated by a
government agency, which is the Professional Regulation
Commission (PRC). The pertinent provisions of this law are the
following:
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“Sec. 22. Criminologist defined. A criminologist is any person who

is a graduate of the Degree of Criminology, who has passed the
examination for criminologists and is registered as such by the
Board”.
Sec. 23. Practice of Criminology defined. A person is deemed to

be engaged in the practice of Criminology if he holds himself out to
the public in any of the following capacities:
Par. 2. As law enforcement administrator, executive adviser,

consultant or agent in any government or private agency:
Par. 3. As technician in dactyloscopy, ballistics, questioned

document, police photography, lie detection, forensic chemistry and
other scientific aspects of crime detection:
Par. 5. As counselor, expert, adviser, researcher in any

government or private agency on any aspects of criminal research or
project involving the causes of crime, juvenile delinquency, treatment
of offenders, police operations, law enforcement administration,
scientific criminal investigation or public welfare administration.
This law on criminology profession significantly widens the

acceptance of questioned document examination practices in court
as expert witness for judicial administration. It professionalizes the
practice and no longer encroached by other professionals to render
opinion on questioned document examination.
On the other hand, criminologist from other countries upon call for
consultation for special projects related to criminology not requiring
more than 5 years residence in any 12 months period: provided, that
such criminologists are legally qualified to practice as such in their
own state or country. This provision of the law is provided under
Section 13 of the Republic Act 6506 on exemption of registration in
the Professional Regulatory Commission.
While in other countries, practicing questioned document examiners

are called forensic document examiner depending upon to suitability
of their respective laws on practices of questioned document
examination as part of legal and judicial system.
3. CATEGORY OF EXAMINATION
3.1. Preliminary Examination

The preliminary examination is considered as initial examination. it is
a conduct of examination with limited findings and opinion and
subject to final examination. This is very common in the practices of
which initial understanding and idea of authenticity or falsity of
document can be partially determined. Mostly, these examinations
are conducted if numbers of specimens involve are not yet
completed. Some of the preliminary examination if the specimens
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being submitted are Photostats copy while pending the examination

of the original copy. Preliminary examinations significantly gave
advance understandings of document evidence whether it is falsified
or authentic. In some circumstances, preliminary examination on
secondary document specimen will compel adverse party to submit
the original copy to be examined and contribute to expedite the
litigation proceedings. The preliminary examination may be
conducted with or without laboratory activity and will be limited to
partial examination to be stipulated in the supplementary clause of
the examination report. The preliminary examination usually
encounters difficulties due to the non-finality and incompleteness of
the examination which is normal for rebuttal.
3.2. Final Examination

The final examination contains definite examination findings and
opinion. It strictly observes no retraction or amendments of opinion
and being considered as absolute and complete. It likewise requires
laboratory examination in order to comply completeness of
examination, utmost possible understanding of the interested parties
for clarity and eradication of confusions.
The advantage of the final examination is that it can be directly

submitted for markings as exhibits towards offering or submission as
evidence. It will likewise prevent issues and doubt of being not a
credible examination because of the complete requirements in the
conduct of examination. the final examination if conducted shall
require laboratory equipment particularly optical and magnifying
apparatus in order to produce a large photographic production for
comparative viewing and illustration towards visual understanding of
the examiners in particular and the interested parties in general.
3.3. Ex-Parte Examination

The ex-parte examination is a conduct of examination by the adverse
party after examination of the examiners by the other party. This
commonly an expression as second party opinion. However, prior to
conduct of ex-parte examination, the counsel of requesting adverse
party must file motion for ex-parte examination in court and with the
court order of the said examination.
It is understood that ex-parte examination is a matter of right of a

litigant or his counsel to secure examiners on ex-parte examination
on cases involving forensic evidence examination. The ex-parte
examination may only happen if the adverse party is not convinced
as to the result and conduct of the examination as well as the opinion
rendered. To ensure the correctness of the results discovered by the
first examiners conducting forensic examination, it is highly
recommended that an ex-parte examination must be conducted.
Thus, a party litigant who fails to secure the services of forensic
examiners on cases involving forensic evidence examination, most
likely is gambling his case which will lead possibly to a state of legal
suicide.
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4. REQUEST OF LITIGANTS. The request for examination to

questioned document examiners can be done directly by the litigants
in court cases. It might be the offended party, complainant, accused
or respondent in a criminal case, while plaintiff or defendants in civil
cases. They will simply manifest a letter of request to the questioned
document examiners requesting examination and identification of
questioned documents for legal and other purposes in the future. The
litigants are parties involved in court cases who may receive court
verdicts either favorable or non-favorable decisions.
In behalf of the clients or litigants, the legal counsel usually makes

the written request for questioned document examination addressed
to the examiners. This is very common when document as an
evidence is about to be filed or availability of documents for
examination are filed to offices as custodian of the document. The
written request usually authorizes the examiners to conduct
examination where the document is on file in order for the examiner
to visually and optically examine and compare as well as to
photograph the questioned or standard specimen as objects of
dispute for comparison. The requesting counsel will likewise request
permission to the office concerned, the examiner will conduct the
examination and request certification that examination was duly
conducted by the examiner at the concerned office premises.
Examination to be conducted by order of the court is most compelling

and obligatory to do so this cannot be refused for the simple reason
of maintaining judicial order and in the interest of justice. This
reception of examination is the greatest position of questioned
document examiners in conducting examination without hindrance or
legal obstacles in pursuing the examination. the examiners will enjoy
the absolute court authority to conduct examination either within or
outside the court premises or depending upon the availability of
document to elsewhere of court jurisdiction and authority.
4.1 Order of Quasi-Judicial Body

On the other hand, questioned document examination request may
be received from quasi-judicial body upon order during the
proceedings of the case. This examination request similar to court
order upon request of any party litigant or counsel. It is understood
that questioned document examiners may appear upon receipt of
subpoena for testimony and eventually their findings may be a
possible basis for the issuance of a decision in the case.
4.2 Investigating Body

Investigation hearing is also one of the manners in the reception of
questioned document examination This is very common in the
conduct of the preliminary investigation at the prosecutor’s office
involving forgery and falsification of documents to determine probable
cause or for the dismissal of the case against the respondents.
Likewise, evidence involving questioned document examination is
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also utilized during clarificatory hearings in order to arrive at

constructive evidence prior to recommendation or resolutions of
cases towards filing and manifestation of the same before proper
courts or quasi-judicial bodies.
This kind of request is delegated to another person or party. This may

be in the form of special power of attorney or any other form of
instruments authorizing somebody in behalf of the most interested
person who intends to request questioned document examination of
the examiner if documents are on file in a particular office. This is
common to government offices wherein it is considered as public
document. This is allowed if proper communication shall be
manifested in the interest of justice. In the case of documents for
comparative examination like the one which is under bank custody, a
written permission of the depositor or court order is required.
5. RELEASES AND ISSUANCE OF EXAMINATION FINDINGS AND

OPINION. After finishing the conduct of examination, the result of
examination must be submitted to the requesting party through
transmittal letter. It should be transmitted to the addressee who
requested the examination to be duly received of which a copy must
be signed by the recipient. This will show that the finished products of
the examination are duly turned over to the requesting party for their
intention and purposes.
5.1. (Subpoena Duces Tecum) Court Order

Release and issuance of examination findings and opinion may be
submitted to the court either by subpoena duces tecum or court
order. This situation is applicable that the questioned document
examiner was not able to transmit the result of the examination and
findings as well as opinion for some valid reason. This kind of
reporting of examination findings and opinion is compelling and
obligatory for reason of judicial order.
5.2. Judicial Affidavit

This release of examination findings and opinion will be verified by a
judicial affidavit executed by the examiner as affiant. Said judicial
affidavit will be in the form of a question and answer being attached
as part of the annexes for inclusion as possession papers during pre-
trial or trial of the case. This manifestation of examination report is an
exceptional one depending on the situation of the case proceedings.
5.3. Verified Oath

It is an execution of affidavit by questioned document examiner as
affiant relative to the examination he conducted as to truth of the
matter based on his knowledge and ability. The written findings and
opinion is verified by a judicial affidavit that the affiant (the examiner)
has read the contents of said written examination report findings and
opinion, that he caused the preparation thereof, and that the contents
therein are true and correct of his personal knowledge or based on
authentic records. This is commonly required under 1997 Rules on
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Civil Procedures. Examination reports with oath of verification can be

included for markings of exhibits during pre-trial conference, and
eventually become evidence.
5.4. Furnishing copies to other parties upon authority

Copies of examination findings may be furnished to other parties
upon consent or authority of the requesting party. Commonly,
adverse party can obtain copies of the examination report upon
submission to the court.
6. PROCEDURE ON QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

6.1. Consideration of Specimen for Comparative Examination
For comparison of specimens to be examined, there must be a
distinction of specimen for comparison. This will involve the
questioned specimen as object of dispute, while the standard
specimen will be the sample of the object for comparison and
identification whether the questioned specimen is one and the same
making or source of reproduction. This must be given high emphasis
in the conduct of examination in order to guide the examiner for him
to conduct a fair and constructive examination towards the issuance
of an appropriate opinion.
6.2. Consideration of Standard Specimen for Comparison

Standard specimens for comparison to the questioned specimen are
considered as admitted or accepted without any contradiction of
being genuine or authentic. They may be procured by collection
known as collected standard or by request known as requested
standard. Another term of standard is exemplar because of its
authenticity by admissibility and acceptance. In most instances, the
best standard for comparative examination with the questioned
specimen is, if the making is contemporarily executed particularly in a
short span of moments either before or after the execution. However,
as long as there is clarity whether the standard and the questioned
specimens for comparison were executed in a long span of moments
there is no reason that identification cannot be done or remote.
6.3. Consideration of Supplemental Standard Specimen

Supplemental specimen is an additional specimen added for
comparative examination. It is implied that the more standard
specimen for comparison with this questioned specimen, the better.
The additional specimen can supplement for comparison in order to
establish more basis to determine the extent of examination as long
as there is clarity of image or features for identification. It is also
called that supplemental standard specimen will ameliorate for
comparison to better examination.
6.4. Consideration of Questioned Specimen of Comparison

Questioned specimens are objects of dispute whose controversies
and confusions are pending acceptance of the interested party. They
are considered as unknown until being determined through
comparative examination with the standard specimen. It may be
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considered as document specimen in doubt while authenticity or

falsity is being scrutinized until findings and opinion will be
established. It is understood that issues on authenticity or falsity of
questioned specimen cannot be resolved until it is finally examined.
6.5 Examination of Questioned Specimen without Comparison to

other Specimen
There are instances that examination on questioned document does
not require comparison to a standard specimen. This is common if
the document in question is a products of erasures, alterations,
interlineations, and substitutions or any chemically or mechanically
erased. This will only require examination of physical appearance on
the part of mechanical erasures while application of liquid matter for
chemical erasures. Indeed, examination conducted with identity
without requirements for comparative examination will end to
detection on obvious defects on surface appearance of document
properties which will differ from genuineness and originality.
7. CATEGORY OF DOCUMENT
• Standard Documents
• Questioned or Disputed Document
8. SELECTING THE BEST STANDARD FOR COMPARISON. Another

principle involved in handwriting and signature identification is the
selection of best standards of comparison. Standards of Comparison
must be procured or obtained properly, one which illustrates
completely the author’s personal habits and should be able to
demonstrate the author’s habit in the light of the handwriting which is
in questioned. The main objective of selecting best standards of
comparison is to gain basis for reliable and sound conclusion.
9. CLASSES OF STANDARD FOR COMPARISON

• Procured/ Collected Standard
• Requested Standard
• Typewriting/ Computer Prints Standard
10. BEST STANDARD FOR COMPARISON

• Contemporaneous in date
• Same general class as the questioned writing
• Acceptability as standard
• Proof of authenticity
11. APPROPRAITE SOURCES OF STANDARD

• Personal Documents
• Educational Documents
• Vocational Documents
• Financial Documents
• Social Documents
• Corporate Documents
• Motor Vehicle Documents
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• Military Records
• Governmental and Public Records
• Criminal Documents
• Miscellaneous Documents
Self-Help: You can also refer to the sources below to help you
further understand the lesson


Let’s Check
Activity1. Identification. In the space provided, write the term/s being asked in the
following statements: (One point each)
1. The primary stage where individual begin the art of

copying writing execution until introduces its own.
2. It is an execution of affidavit by questioned document
examiner as affiant relative to the examination he conducted as to truth of the
matter based on his knowledge and ability.
3. It is considered as writing execution that separate each
other.
4. it is a writing execution that is a product of speed
writing. 5. This is a writing that is readable.
6. This is considered as beautiful and artistic
handwritings.
______ 7. They are used by the document examiner as the basis
for identification against the questioned document.
8. These are the handwritings which prepared upon the
request of the investigator for the sole purpose of comparison with questioned
document.
9. These are documents relating to clubs, civic
organizations, PTA associations, political groups, religious organizations, non-
profit groups.
10. These consists of writings executed daily in the
course of business, profession, social, and personal affairs which may be
gathered or collected for comparison with the questioned document.
Let’s Analyze
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Let us try the following activities to know how deep your understanding about
the topics of this unit. At this juncture, you will be required to ELABORATE your
answers about the following questions:
1. What is the relevance of selecting the best standard for comparison in

Questioned Document Examination?
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
2. How does identifying the writing style of the writer help in the examination of
questioned document?
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
In a Nutshell
Please refer to laboratory manual:
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Activity no. 3
Q&A List
indicate your questions but noting you have to indicate the answers after your question
is being raised and clarified. You can write your questions below.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Keywords Index
Handwriting Scripted Writing Disputed Document
School Form Stage Legible Writing Procured Document
Progression Stage Illegible Writing Requested Document
Mastery Stage Calligraphic Writing Typewriting Standard
Printed Writing Cacographic Writing Sources of Standard
Cursive Writing Standard Document Examination
Big Picture C
expected to
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a. Illustrate the identifying indicators for falsification such as the

characteristics of handwriting, types of handwriting forgery guided by
the principles of handwriting and typewriting examination and
identification.
Big Picture in Focus: ULOa. Illustrate the identifying

indicators for falsification such as the characteristics of
handwriting, types of handwriting forgery guided by the
principles of handwriting and typewriting examination
and identification.
Metalanguage
The following are terms to be remembered as we go through in studying
this unit. Please refer to these definitions as supplement in case you will
encounter difficulty in understanding the basic concepts of questioned
document.
1. Recognition is the identification of similarity or dissimilarities in

examining specimens.
2. Script Writing is a form of writing wherein the letters in a word are not
interconnected from each other.
3. Block Style Writing is a form of writing in which all the letters are in
capital letter.
4. Cursive Writing is a form of writing in which the letters in a word are
interconnected from each other.
Essential Knowledge
When two handwritings are being compared, a certain amount of

preliminary work has to be undertaken before any detailed comparison of their
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characteristics is done. The writing should be read, re-read and studied until the
examiner is so familiar with its appearance that he is able to interpret any word
of letter form at a glance. Great care should be exercised in the interpretation of
doubtful letter formations, and possibility of misspelling or of the inclusion of
unfamiliar proper names, should be borne in mind, otherwise, the examiner may
be confused by some of the letter designs.
1. IDENTIFYING HANDWRITING CHARACTERISTICS.

The principle in the process of handwriting and signature
identification which states “identify handwriting characteristics” is
analogous to the statement “recognition of identifying details”.
Handwriting characteristics in this text may mean any property or
mark which distinguishes, and is commonly referred to as identifying
details. All handwriting contain or exhibit identifying properties or
elements which are known as “characteristics” or “identifying
details” and can be identified through their fundamental
characteristics that relatively show the author’s individualities.
As a rule, two handwritings cannot be deemed to be the writing of

one and the same person unless they agree in every basic element
and embody basic differences.
As a result of the examination, it is not a matter of 6 to 8 or 12 to 50

“points of similarity” but rather the points of similarity shall show every
basic element of the author’s handwriting only then shall it justify
identification. Identity of the author’s handwriting is assured when the
handwriting characteristics involve a combination of agreements in
personal individuality which sufficiently isolates one and only one
writer from all the other possible writers. Points of similarity furnish
inferences of identity between two writings as points of difference
indicate their non-identity.
Handwriting characteristics are generally grouped into two:

• Common/class characteristics
• Individual/personal characteristics
These characteristics should be identified and distinguished from

each other at the initial phase of document examination.
Individual or personal characteristics are those introduced into the

handwriting, consciously or unconsciously by the writer. They are
highly personal or peculiar and are unlikely to occur in other
instances in another person’s handwriting, and which serves to
distinguish one’s handwriting.
Common characteristics are those which conform to the general

style acquired when learning to write and became fashionable at a
particular time and place due to the continuous writing and practices.
This type of characteristics are common to a group of writers.
2. PRINCIPAL FACTORS GOVERNING HANDWRITING
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CHARACTERISTICS. The examiner must recognize first the

individual handwriting characteristics of the writer, especially on the
style or form of writing –
• Script Writing
• Cursive Writing
• Block Writing
After the style of writing is recognized by the examiner, next is to

focus on the following factors:
• Slant/slope
• Alignment
• Proportion
• Stroke Structure
• Size of Handwriting
• Ratio of Writing
• Lateral Spacing
• Line Quality
• Speed in Writing
• Pen Pressure
• Shading
• Alignment
• Rhythm
• Arrangement
• Re-touching
• Tremor
• Hesitation
• Natural Variation
3. INDIVIDUAL CHARACTERISTICS
The primary basis of document examination is the individual
characteristics of the handwriting which begin with the analysis of the
form and style of individual handwriting – cursive writing, script style
or block style. Characteristics of individual handwriting may be
identified and analyzed further in the elements that follows:
1. Body
2. Diacritics
3. Eye/eyelet
4. Connection
5. Foot
6. Baseline
7. Hiatus or pen jump
8. Hook
9. Initial stroke
10. Loop
11. Oval
12. Retrace
13. Shoulder/hump
14. Staff or stem
15. Spur
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16. Arc/garlanded
17. Beard/embellishment
18. Buckle/buckle knot
19. Terminal stroke
20. Patching retouching
21. Pen lift
4. MOVEMENT OR MANNER OF EXECUTION is related to the

handling position of the writing instrument that creates certain type of
motion affecting the quality and alignment. The different types of
movement in writing is caused by the manner in which the writing
instrument is moved whether by finger, wrist, forearm or whole arm
movement, the outcome of which identifies the individuality in writing
of a particular person.
5. SIGNATURE IDENTIFICATION
5.1. Signature is the name of the person written by him/her in a
document as a sign of acknowledgement.
5.2. Genuine Signature is a combination of limited number of

letters and strokes that compose the name of the
author/writer. Because of its frequent use, it becomes almost
automatic writing with many persons. With those who do not
write frequently, conscious writing act produces a more
primitive writing movement which of itself assumes identifying
importance. Furthermore, in these problems, there is a
suspicion of forgery.
5.3. Forgery is an intent to defraud; a legal term which involves

not only non-genuine document but also an intent on the part
of the maker to defraud. Outside the courtroom however,
forgery is used synonymously with fraudulent signature or
spurious document.
5.4. EARMARKS (INDICATIONS) OF GENUINENESS

• Habitual speed of writing
• Firmness of strokes
• Degree of skills
• Fundamental muscular movement
• Natural variation, and
• Rhythm, coordination, continuity and precision
5.5. INDICATIONS OF FORGERY

• Hesitations
• Unnatural pen lift
• Patching, careful retouching
• Tremors
• Uncertainty of movement
• Drawn quality devoid of free normal movement
• Lack of natural variations
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• Blunt initial and terminal strokes

• Concealed junction connection
• Defective line quality
• Presence of indentation and traces of carbon (in case of
traced forgery)
• Presence of intercalations/interlineation
6. TYPES OF NON-GENUINE SIGNATURES

• Simple or Spurious Signature
• Traced Forgery
• Simulated or Freehand Imitation Forgery
7. CLASSES OF QUESTIONED SIGNATURE

1. Genuine signature which the writer refuses to admit as genuine
2. Genuine signature deliberately modified
3. Forged signature without the attempt to copy the genuine model
known as spurious.
4. Forged signature produced by tracing
5. Simulated or freehand forgery
Self-Help: You can also refer to the sources below to help you further
understand the lesson

Let’s Check
Activity1. Identification. In the space provided, write the term/s being asked in
the followingstatements: (One point each)
1. The muscle that pushes up the pen forming the

upward strokes.
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2. It is related to the handling position of the writing

instrument that creates certain type of motion affecting the quality of writing
done.
3. In this movement of writing the letters are formed due
to the action of the elbow, forearm resting on the surface.
4. It refers to any property or mark that distinguish and is
commonly referred to identifying details.
5. This type of handwriting characteristic is highly
personal and peculiar.
______ 6. It is a disconnected style of writing in which each letter
is written separately.
______7. It is the main portion of the letter.
______8. It is an imaginary line where all the letters are
supposed to be aligned.
9. The gap occurring between a continuous stroke
without lifting the pen.
10. Short and horizontal strokes mostly found on a small
letter .
Let’s Analyze
Let us try the following activities to know how deep your understanding
about the topics of this unit. At this juncture, you will be required to
ELABORATE your answers about the following questions:
1. Discuss narratively how individual characteristics are acquired.

_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
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_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
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2. Discuss what are the basis on how signatures are being able to be examined
by a questioned document examiner.
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
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In a Nutshell
Activity no. 4
Activity no. 5
Activity no. 6
Activity no. 7
Activity no. 8
Activity no. 9
Q&A List
indicate your questions but noting you have to indicate the answers after
your question is being raised and clarified. You can write your questions
below.
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Keywords Index
Handwriting Signature Embellishment
Movement of Writing Forgery Oval
Individual Characteristics Spurious Signature Eyelet
Class Characteristics Traced Signature Diacritic
Base Free hand Forgery Buckle knot
Shoulder Hump Hook
Body Spur Retrace
Arc Hiatus Repatching
Big Picture
expected to
a. Discuss the required knowledge and skills in the detection and

examination of counterfeit money bills, coins and other foreign
currencies; passports, stamps, labels, crowns of different products
of unfair trade competition and prepare examination report and
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evidentiary documents for court demonstration.
Big Picture in Focus: ULOa. a. Discuss the required

knowledge and skills in the detection and examination of
counterfeit money bills, coins and other foreign currencies;
passports, stamps, labels, crowns of different products of
unfair trade competition and prepare examination report and
evidentiary documents for court demonstration.
Metalanguage
The following are terms to be remembered as we go through in studying
this unit. Please refer to these definitions as supplement in case you will
encounter difficulty in understanding the basic concepts of bullet.
1. Reclusion Temporal is a penalty with imprisonment of 12 years and 1

day to 20 years.
2. Prision Mayor is a penalty with imprisonment of 6 years and 1 day to 12
years.
3. Prision Correctional is a penalty with imprisonment of 6 months and 1
day to 6 years.
4. Counterfeit is an imitation that is made usually with intent to deceptively
represent its content or origins.
Essential Knowledge
This unit tackles the physical features of genuine and counterfeit

documents that is very important in the field of questioned document
examination since one of the most common subject matter in this profession is
the identification or examination of genuine bank notes.
1. Counterfeiting is defined under the Revised Penal Code of the

Philippines as “a crime against public interest” which include:
• Art. 161 – counterfeiting the great seal of the Government of the
Philippine Islands, forging the signature or stamp of the Chief
Executive, with impossible penalty of Reclusion Temporal;
• Art. 162 – using forged signature or counterfeit seal or stamps,
with the penalty of Prision Mayor;
• Art. 163 – making and importing and uttering false coins, shall
suffer Prision Mayor, Prision Correctional and fine;
• Art. 164 – mutilation of coins. A penalty of Prision Correctional and
a fine;
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• Art. 166 – forging treasury bank notes or other documents payable

to bearer importing and uttering such false or forged notes and
documents is punishable by Reclusion Temporal, Prision Mayor in
the maximum and minimum periods;
• Art. 167 – counterfeiting, importing, and uttering instruments not
payable to bearer, a penalty of prision correctional in its medium
and maximum periods.
2. EXAMINATION OF GENUINE AND COUNTERFEIT MONEY
• PAPER (Feel the paper) – The genuine note is printed on a

special kind of paper which is rough when you run your fingers
through it. It does not glow under the ultra-violet light. During paper
manufacture, the watermark, security fibers, security threads and
iridescent band are included.
• WATERMARK (Examine the watermark on the unprinted portion

of the note) – The watermark is the silhouette of the portrait
appearing on the face of the note. Sharp details of the light and
shadow effect can be seen when the note is viewed against the
light. The contours of the features of the silhouette can be felt by
running the fingers over the design on relatively new notes.
• SECURITY FIBERS (Inspect the security fibers) – Embedded red

and blue visible fibers are scattered at random on both surfaces
of a genuine note and can be readily picked off by means of any
pointed instrument.
• EMBEDDED SECURITY THREAD (View the embedded security

thread) – The embedded security thread is a special thread
vertically implanted off center of the note during paper
manufacture. This can easily be seen when the note is viewed
against the light. It appears as a broken line for 5’s, 10’s and 20’s
and straight line for 50’s, 100’s, 200’s , 500’s and 1000’s.
• WINDOWED SECURITY THREAD (View the windowed security

thread on the improved version of 100’s, 500’s and 1000-piso
notes and the new 200-piso notes) – The windowed security
thread is a narrow security thread vertically located like “stitches”
at the face of the note with cleartext of the numerical value in
repeated sequence and changes in color from magenta to green
or green to magenta depending on the angle of view.
• IRIDESCENT BAND (Look for the iridescent band on the

improved version of 100’s, 500’s and 1000-piso notes and the
new 200-piso notes) – A wide glistening gold vertical stripe with
the numerical value printed in series.
• PORTRAIT (Recognize the portrait) – Appears life-like. The eyes

“sparkle”. Shadings are formed by the fine lines that give the
portrait a characteristic facial expression which is extremely
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difficult to replicate.
• SERIAL NUMBER (Check the serial number) – Composed of 1 or

2 prefix letters and 6 or 7 digits. The letters and numerals are
uniform in size and thickness, evenly spaced and well-aligned;
and glow under the ultra-violet light. A banknote with six “0” digit
serial number is a specimen note and not legal tender note.
• BACKGROUND/LACEWORK DESIGN (Scan the

background/lacework design) – The background designs are
made up of multicolored and well defined lines. The lacework
designs are composed of web-crisscrossing lines which are
continuous and traceable even at the intersection.
• VIGNETTE (Verify the vignette) – The lines and dashes

composing the vignette are fine, distinct and sharp; the varying
color tone gives a vivid look to the picture that makes it “stand
out” of the paper.
• VALUE PANEL Check the numerals found at the four corners of

the front and back of the note. The numerals denote the
denomination of the note.
3. EXAMINATION OF ALTERED DOCUMENTS

Any form of eradication, erasures, obliterations, interlineations,
substitution, insertions, and other changes or additions on the surface
of the document defects or aberrations always clearly visible or
obvious except if the marking of the alteration is finely done.
The examination shall not require comparison to specimen and only

focus to abnormal defect that constitute frauds and deception. In
describing the discrepancies of document, it only needs to visualize
the defective portion through enlarged photographic production to be
described in the written examination report. Indeed, the obviousness
of the defects will ensure the status of falsity which does not need
corroborative and associated evidence for reason of clear deficiency.
• Eradication – is an abolition of content without remaining in

the affected portion to a particular part of document by wiping
out to non-appearance.
• Erasure – is a way of removal by means of mechanical or
chemical elimination to a particular portion of document.
• Obliteration – is a type of erasure by super imposing
document’s particular portion of contents through covering on
top of the original impressions.
• Interlineations – it is a result of adding part or parcel in the
middle portion of the document may be in different
handwriting execution raising an object of dispute.
• Substitution – it is an alteration by erasing and inserting or
adding a particular portion of document.
• Insertion – placing or putting at the middle portion in a
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separate content of particular document after the making.
In this aspect, the final determination on the identity of difference or

consistency of irregularity shall base on the defect or changes if any
causing partial damage appearing on the document and affects the
making of originality. Likewise, obviousness decipherment on the
changes mostly noticeable and laboratory examination or any other
form of enlargement identification is a matter of supplemental to
prove the status of falsity, and giving findings and opinion of the
examiner is not difficult.
4. CONTENTS OF EXAMINATION REPORT

The contents of examination report shall be in writing stipulating form
the date being requested by the requesting party and the description
of documents being examined aside from photographic charts
illustration. The following are the sequence of examination report:
1. Transmittal letter to requesting party – an official manner of

informing the requesting party as to result of examination being
requested from the questioned document examiner.
2. Description of documents being examined – reflecting the
specification of document being examined and distribution of
lables wherein the signatures or disputed and standard
specimens was extracted.
3. The descriptive comparative findings – explaining in textual
narrative form of handwriting characteristics among standard and
questioned specimens involved in the examination.
4. The comparative table – tabulating the result of examination
reflected in descriptive comparative findings for tabular or
statistical comparison.
5. The specific description – describing handwriting characteristics
with high identifying value with corresponding arrows pointing
peculiarities among standard and questioned specimen.
6. The opinion – result of the findings contributed by descriptive
comparison, statistical tabulation, and specific description as
basis for declaration of falsity or authenticity. The more prevailing
results of similarities being established it will lead to the
conclusion of authentic writing. While the more prevailing results
of difference being established it will lead to the conclusion of
forgery writing.
7. The oath of verification – it is a sworn statement of an affiant duly
notarized by notary public pertaining to truth of the matter of the
examination being conducted at the best knowledge and ability as
supplementary attachment in the examination report.
8. The judicial affidavit – it is a sworn statement of an affiant before
the notary public in the form of question and answer regarding the
contents of his examination for purposes of submission for
temporary non-appearance of the examiners before any legal
forum.
5. THE QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINER IN COURT
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LITIGATION PROCEEDINGS
• Subpoena Ad Testificandum – an order of the court issued to a

witness to testify in a particular hearing or proceedings of the
case. to questioned document examiner, it will testify as expert
witness.
• Subpoena Duces Tecum – an order of the court to bring the
documents pertaining to a particular hearing of the case involving
questioned document examination. To questioned document
examiner, he will be compelled to bring reports of examination
before the court and submit or litigation procedings.
• Direct Examination by Qualifying Counsel – this is a qualifying
stage of the expert witness by his counsel before the court to
substantiate his qualifications as expert witness to be appreciated
by the presiding judge. The qualifying counsel may ask quasi-
leading questions pertaining to his examination for court
testimony. It is a rule in court if a witness is an expert should be
qualified first by his qualifying counsel.
• Cross Examination by Opposing Counsel – this is a critical
stage to discredit an expert witness in order to disqualify and
destroy his testimony. The opposing counsel will exhaust critical
questions in order to avert the expert witness to be appreciated
his expertise and qualifiations.
• Intervening Questions of Presiding Judge – these are
questions being asked by the judge aside from questions coming
from the qualifying and opposing counsels during the
proceedings. The presiding judge questions during trial will further
clarify previous questions being asked by both counsels.
However, most of the presiding judge questioned directly to the
expert witness on interesting issues and hypothetical statement
during testimonies in the witness stand.
• Re-direct Examination by Qualifying Counsel – rectification
and correction of inconsistent answers of the witness being ask
by the opposing or adverse counsel in order to strengthen
testimonies from confusion.
• Re-cross Examination by Opposing Counsel – rejoinder of
critical questions being asked by the opposing or adverse counsel
to further put the witness into credibility difficulties.
• As Amicus Curia’e – an examiner can be considered as friends
of the court. This is a situation whereby courts may secure the
possibility of examiner to augment enlightenment on issues
concerning forensic evidence examination if necessarily required.
Self-Help: You can also refer to the sources below to help you further
understand the lesson

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Let’s Check
Activity1. Identification. In the space provided, write the term/s being asked in
the following statements: (One point each)
1. The color of 500 peso bill.

2. Who is the personality that can be seen in the 20 peso
bill.
3. The color of 1000 peso bill.
4. The animal that can be seen at the back of the 1000

peso bill.
5. The size of the metallic thread found on 500 peso bill.
6. These are security features that can be seen by the
use of ultraviolet light.
7. Who is the personality found in 50 peso bill.
8. Imprisonment of 12 years and 1 day to 20 years.
9. Who are the personalities that can be seen in 1000
peso bill.
10. What is the crime if you are caught making fake
currencies.
Let’s Analyze
Let us try the following activities to know how deep your understanding
about the topics of this unit. At this juncture, you will be required to
ELABORATE your answers about the following questions:
1. Explain the importance of having security features in a currency.

_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
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_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
2. What is the significance of having re-cross examination and re-direct

examination in a litigation proceedings.
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
In a Nutshell
Activity no. 11
Activity no. 12
Q&A List
In this section you are going to list what boggles you in this unit.
You may indicate your questions but noting you have to indicate the
answers after your question is being raised and clarified. You can write
your questions below.
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Keywords Index
Counterfeit Security Fibers Re-direct Examination
Security Features Metallic Thread Re-cross Examination
Money Cross Examination Reclusion Temporal
Watermarks Direct Examination Prision Mayor
COURSE SCHEDULES
Please be mindful of the schedules below to avoid future problems in complying with
your requirements.
Activity Date Where to submit

Big Picture A: ULOa Let’s Check
August 20, 2020 CF’s email
and Analyze Activities
Big Picture A: ULOa In a Nutshell August 22, 2020 CF’s email
Big Picture A: ULOa Q and A List August 24, 2020 via Zoom app
Big Picture A: ULOb Let’s Check
August 25, 2020 CF’s email
Big Picture A: ULOb In a Nutshell August 27, 2020 CF’s email
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Big Picture A: ULOb Q and A List August 28, 2020 via Zoom app
First Examination September 4,
Quipper LMS
2020
Big Picture B: ULOa Let’s Check September 8,
CF’s email
and Analyze Activities 2020
Big Picture B: ULOa In a Nutshell September 10,
CF’s email
2020
Big Picture B: ULOa Q and A List September 12,
via Zoom app
2020
Big Picture B: ULOb Let’s Check September 15,
2020 CF’s email
Big Picture B: ULOb In a Nutshell September 15,
CF’s email
2020
Big Picture B: ULOb Q and A List September 16,
via Zoom app
2020
Second Examination September 18,
Quipper LMS
2020
Big Picture C: ULOa Let’s Check September 22,
2020 CF’s email
Big Picture C: ULOa In a Nutshell September 24,
2020 CF’s email
Big Picture C: ULOa Q and A List September 25,
via Zoom app
2020
Big Picture C: ULOb Let’s Check September 26,
2020 CF’s email
Big Picture C: ULOb In a Nutshell September 26,
2020 CF’s email
Big Picture C: ULOb Q and A List September 28,
via Zoom app
2020
Third Examination October 2, 2020 Quipper LMS
Big Picture D: ULOa Let’s Check
October 8, 2020 CF’s email
Big Picture D: ULOa In a Nutshell October 8, 2020 CF’s email
Big Picture D: ULOa Q and A List October 9, 2020 via Zoom app
Big Picture D: ULOb Let’s Check
October 13, 2020 CF’s email
Big Picture D: ULOb In a Nutshell October 13, 2020 CF’s email
Big Picture D: ULOb Q and A List October 14, 2020 via Zoom app
October 15-16,
Final Examination Quipper LMS
2020
Please note that this schedule may change from time to time. It is advisable that you
always keep in contact with your teacher for updates and always check your LMS or
Group Chatrooms.
Online Code of Conduct
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• All teachers/Course Coordinators and students are expected to abide by an

honor code of conduct, and thus everyone and all are exhorted to exercise self-
management and self-regulation.
• Faculty members are guided by utmost professional conduct as learning
facilitators in holding DED conduct. Any breach and violation shall be dealt with
properly under existing guidelines, specifically on social media conduct (OPM
21.15) and personnel discipline (OPM 21.11).
• All students are likewise guided by professional conduct as learners in attending
DED courses. Any breach and violation shall be dealt with properly under existing
guidelines, specifically in Section 7 (Student Discipline) in the Student Handbook.
• Professional conduct refers to the embodiment and exercise of the University’s
Core Values, specifically in the adherence to intellectual honesty and integrity;
academic excellence by giving due diligence in virtual class participation in all
lectures and activities, as well as fidelity in doing and submitting performance
tasks and assignments; personal discipline in complying with all deadlines; and
observance of data privacy.
• Plagiarism is a serious intellectual crime and shall be dealt with accordingly. The
University shall institute monitoring mechanisms online to detect and penalize
plagiarism.
• All borrowed materials uploaded by the teachers/Course Coordinators shall be
properly acknowledged and cited; the teachers/Course Coordinators shall be
professionally and personally responsible for all the materials uploaded in the
online classes or published in SIM/SDL manuals.
• Teachers/Course Coordinators shall devote time to handle DED courses and
shall honestly exercise due assessment of student performance.
• Teachers/Course Coordinators shall never engage in quarrels with students
online. While contentions intellectual discussions are allowed, the
teachers/Course Coordinators shall take the higher ground in facilitating and
moderating these discussions. Foul, lewd, vulgar and discriminatory languages
are absolutely prohibited.
• Students shall independently and honestly take examinations and do
assignments, unless collaboration is clearly required or permitted. Students shall
not resort to dishonesty to improve the result of their assessments (e.g.
examinations, assignments).
• Students shall not allow anyone else to access their personal LMS account.
Students shall not post or share their answers, assignment or examinations to
others to further academic fraudulence online.
• By handling DED courses, teachers/Course Coordinators agree and abide by all
the provisions of the Online Code of Conduct, as well as all the requirements and
protocols in handling online courses.
• By enrolling in DED courses, students agree and abide by all the provisions of
the Online Code of Conduct, as well as all the requirements and protocols in
handling online courses.
Monitoring of OBD and DED
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• The Deans, Asst. Deans, Discipline Chairs and Program Heads shall be
responsible in monitoring the conduct of their respective DED classes through the
LMS. The LMS monitoring protocols shall be followed, i.e. monitoring of the
conduct of Teacher Activities (Views and Posts) with generated utilization graphs
and data. Individual faculty PDF utilization reports shall be generated and
consolidated by program and by department.
• The Academic Affairs and Academic Planning & Services shall monitor the
conduct of LMS sessions. The Academic Vice Presidents and the Deans shall
collaborate to conduct virtual CETA by randomly joining LMS classes to check
and review online the status and interaction of the faculty and the students.
• For DED, the Deans and Program Heads shall come up with monitoring
instruments, taking into consideration how the programs go about the conduct of
DED classes. Consolidated reports shall be submitted to Academic Affairs for
endorsement to the Chief Operating Officer.
Course prepared by:
REX LORD V. RANALAN, MSE

Course Coordinators
Course reviewed by:
MARCK LESTER L. NAVALES, CPA, MBA

Assistant Dean
Approved by:
GINA FE G. ISRAEL, EdD

Dean of College
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UNIVERSITY OF MINDANAO

Department of Criminal Justice Education

Physically Distanced but Academically Engaged

Self-Instructional Manual (SIM) for Self-Directed

Course/Subject: CRI 318 Questioned Document Examination

Name of Teacher: Lea L. Legarda, RCrim

THIS SIM/SDL MANUAL IS A DRAFT VERSION ONLY; NOT

Part 1. Course Outline and Policies ...................................................... 4

Big Picture B: Unit Learning Outcomes ..................................... 23

Big Picture C: Unit Learning Outcomes ....................................... 34

Essential Knowledge ............................................................... 35

Big Picture D: Unit Learning Outcomes ....................................... 42

Part 3. Course Schedule ......................................................................... 50

Course Outline: CRMTC 4L – Questioned Document Examination

Course Coordinator: Lea L. Legarda, RCrim

Course Outline Policy

Areas of Concern Details

Assessment Task Submission Submission of assessment tasks shall be on 3rd,

If the assessment task is done in real time

Since this course is included in the licensure

Please note that academic dishonesty such as

However, if the late submission of assessment

For group assessment tasks, the course

Assignment Resubmission You should request in writing addressed to the

If disapproved by the course coordinator, you

Submission of the final grades shall follow the

Student Communication You are required to create an email account

You can also meet the course facilitator in

For students who have not created their student

Course Information – see/download course syllabus in the Quipper LMS

CO As a student of this course you are expected to explain the

a. Discuss the relevance of questioned document examination as well as the

Big Picture in Focus: ULOa. Discuss the relevance of

1. Forensic is a term that is used to denote to sciences that is used in an

6. Historical Dating involves the verification of age and worth of a

1. Document is simply defined as any material thing that conveys a

2. Questioned Document is defined as one in which its genuineness or

3. Roots of Questioned Document. During the 1890's, handwriting

4. Applicable Tools and Equipments in Questioned Document

5. Five Subject Matter in Questioned Document.

6. Role of Practicing Questioned Document Examiners. The

7. Validity of Practice. Questioned document practices are now

8. As such, criminologists who practice questioned document

9. Ethical Practice. The practice of QDE lies in the criminology

10. Professional Practices of Questioned Document Examination.

11. Utilization of Questioned Document Examiner. Utility of

Finally, questioned document examiners as expert witnesses, will

12. Moral Obligation of Practicing Questioned Document Examiner.

13. Distinction of Government and Private Questioned Document

14. The Government Questioned Document Examiners. These

15. The Private Questioned Document Examiners. Beginning 1988

the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). The practicing

16. Distinction of Questioned Document Examiner and Questioned

17. Consultant on Questioned Document Examination. Consultant on

18. Limitations of Questioned Document Examination Practices. The

19. The Service Paradigm on Questioned Document Examination.

SERVICE FLOW CHART

Court Litigant QD Examiner Legal Counsel Court

Request Request Request Request

20. CLASSES OF QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION. The

20.1. Handwriting Identification

The principle of handwriting identification is on the basis of similarity.