Document examination · Kraków and all of Poland
Forensic examination of handwriting and signatures
Concerns about a signature, abbreviated signature or handwritten addition require comparison of specific pieces of writing. I examine handwriting and documents, taking account of material quality and the availability of originals.
Examination scope
Handwriting and signature examination
Handwriting and signature examinations concern the authenticity of writing. I compare a questioned signature, abbreviated signature or passage of handwriting with suitable comparison material. The opinion's scope depends on the questions about the document and the characteristics that can be assessed in the available writing.
I accept enquiries from courts, prosecution services, the Police and private clients concerning handwriting and document examination. The Kraków practice accepts cases from Małopolska and throughout Poland. Before originals are sent, we agree on the documents required and how they will be transferred.
Signatures and abbreviated signatures
Comparison of a disputed signature or initials with suitable reference writing. The assessment considers handwriting features, natural variation and the conditions in which it was produced.
Handwritten entries
Handwriting analysis addressing questions about a document. Its usefulness depends on the type of writing and the quantity and quality of material available for comparison.
Handwritten additions and document characteristics
Examination of additions and features that may indicate interference with a document. The ability to assess particular properties depends, among other things, on access to the original and the material’s condition.
Comparison material
Assessment of handwriting or signature samples for comparison with disputed writing. These may be earlier documents or samples prepared according to agreed instructions.
Example questions for analysis
- Which signature, handwriting passage or addition raises concerns?
- Which writing characteristics can be compared using the available documents?
- Is the available comparison material suitable for the questions in the case?
- Does the copy or scan allow assessment of the characteristics concerned by the commission?
Preparation
What to describe
in the initial enquiry?
Identify the document and entry in doubt, and describe the available originals, copies and earlier signatures for comparison. For an enquiry from a court, prosecution service or the Police, also provide the authority, case reference and questions for the opinion. Before new samples are prepared, we will agree on their scope and how they should be collected.
- A description of the document and identification of the specific signature, abbreviated signature or handwriting passage concerned.
- Information on the availability of the original, a copy or scan, and document quality.
- Information on available earlier documents containing handwriting or signatures for comparison.
- The questions the examination should clarify and any deadline relevant to the case.
- Contact details for a reply; we will agree on how to send documents before dispatch.
How we work together
Four stages of work.
Questions about the document
You identify the particular signature, abbreviated signature or handwriting passage and the questions the examination should answer.
Agreeing on material
I assess the availability of the original, copies and reference material. We agree on the documents required, their transfer, and the examination cost and timeframe.
Examination and comparison
I select the method to suit the writing type, material and agreed questions.
Presentation of findings
I present conclusions with a description of the method and the material's limitations.
Report
What do you receive?
- Findings concerning the writing or document under examination.
- A description of analysis and comparison of the material within the commission's scope.
- Conclusions stating the limitations of the method and available documents.
The possibilities depend on the material
- A copy or scan does not always allow the same assessment as an original. Reproduction quality and the type of features requiring examination matter.
- Comparison material must be suitable for the specific question. I agree on its scope and preparation before examination.
- The analysis must consider natural handwriting variation and the conditions in which the writing was produced.
Practical information
Questions and answers.
Can a signature on a scan be examined?
A scan’s usefulness depends on the reproduction quality and the features to be assessed. A copy does not always offer the same possibilities as an original. I assess the need to provide the original for each assignment.
What is comparison material?
These are handwriting or signature samples compared with disputed writing. They may come from earlier documents or be prepared according to agreed instructions. Their suitability and scope should be established before the examination.
Can abbreviated signatures and additions be analysed?
Examinations may cover initials, signatures, handwriting and additions. The ability to draw conclusions depends on the specific writing and available material.
How many comparison signatures should be prepared?
I determine the scope of material individually. In your initial enquiry, describe the documents you have; before you prepare additional samples, we will agree on what is needed.
Can I commission an examination from another town?
Yes. I accept cases from throughout Poland. Before you send documents to Kraków, we will agree on their scope and transfer.
What determines an examination’s cost and timeframe?
It depends on the questions, the type and number of documents, material quality and actions required. I agree the terms after an initial review of the case.
Methods and documentation
Facilities for handwriting and document examination
In examinations, I use Delta Optical SZ-630T and Smart 5MP PRO microscopes and GRAPHLOG software. Documentation of tools, training and conference participation accompanies the description of my resources.
View equipment, training and documentation
Related material
Original or scan? Preparing a document for signature examination
Practical preparation of an original document, scan or photograph for an initial assessment of whether a signature can be examined.
Read the guide →Preparing for an expert examinationComparison material for handwriting examination: what to agree before handover
A list of information needed to assess signatures and handwritten entries for use as reference material.
Read the guide →Let's discuss your case
Identify the document and examination questions
Identify the writing in doubt. State whether you have the original document and earlier signatures or handwriting for comparison. We will establish what material is needed.