How can forensic document examiners help attorneys?
A forensic document examiner can assist clients by resolving a variety of disputed document problems, offer oral or written opinions, provide trial preparation support, and testify as an expert witness.

Is graphology the same as forensic document examination?
Graphology or graphoanalysis attempts to predict character traits from handwriting. Forensic document examination involves comparative examinations of questioned and known material to identify, whenever possible, the author or origin of the questioned document.

How can an attorney make sure a witness is really an expert?
Certification and credentials should be carefully examined. When selecting a document examiner consider his or her training, education, experience, professional affiliations, and certification. If you wish to have handwriting or documents examined be aware that persons who consult may be self-taught, trained in graphology, or certified by like-sounding groups that are outside the mainstream forensic organizations.

What is Certification?
Certification by the American Board of Forensic Document Examiners (ABFDE) identifies qualified scientists capable of providing forensic document services and promotes the advancement of the field through continuing education. In doing so, the Board aims to safeguard the public interest by ensuring that anyone who claims to be a specialist in forensic document examination does, in fact, possess the necessary skills and maintain their qualifications.

The ABFDE is recognized by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and is accredited by the Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board.