Forensic Document Examination in the 21st Century covers the latest technology and techniques providing a complete resource on contemporary issues and methods in forensic document examination. Forensic document examiners provide their findings as expert testimony in court. Due to rapid changes in technology, including digital documents, printing and photocopying capabilities, and more, there is a great need for this up-to-date reference. The examination of documents can include comparison of handwriting or hand-printing; detection of alterations or photocopier and computer manipulation; restoration or decipherment of erased and obliterated writing; visualization of latent impressions; the identification of printing processes; and differentiation of inks. Computer-generated documents are prevalent, and electronically-captured signatures are becoming more widespread, meaning the knowledge of advances in technology and adoption of new validated techniques and methods of document examination are crucial to the reliability of forensic opinions. Forensic Document Examination in the 21st Century includes the latest research on the subject and with contributions from leading experts on their various areas of expertise. The book will be a welcome addition to the literature and support the foundational basis for methods and procedures for use it expert testimony in court, serving as a resource for forensic document examiners, trainees, and those in the criminal and legal communities who use the services of expert document examiners and witnesses

Considered the forensic document examiner's bible, Scientific Examination of Questioned Documents is an authoritative and comprehensive reference that focuses on the pertinent advancements made within the field. This newest edition presents the qualifications necessary for a well-trained examiner and details the most up-to-date methodologies used in the field. An essential guide for the novice and the seasoned professional, it is also an informative reference for the layperson who is interested in the subject. Featuring chapters written by several forensic document examination experts, this new edition is extensively revised to reflect post-1982 developments. Since that time, new avenues of written communication have emerged, as well as the proliferation of desktop computers and printers. Both of these factors have strongly impacted the nature of the examinations performed and the methodologies used. The book thoroughly explores the complexities involved in keeping current with these developments and does so, in some instances, aided by the presentation of a variety of documents and case studies. Discussion topics include infra-red exams, the use of computer hardware and software in document examination, and innovative chart making techniques. New chapters cover computer printer technologies, facsimiles, techniques for the detection of digitally manipulated documents and photocopies, ASTM standards for reporting conclusions along with advanced examination techniques. Updated chapters include expanded discussion of ESDA and other analytical tools, document dating, modern stamp making technology, and more.