Document examiners work with any type of material that conveys property or sends a message. Documents can be harassing letters or notes, real estate contracts, business contracts, threatening letters, forged signatures or altered documents.

Some document examiners limit their work to the examination of handwriting, while others examine the complete document. At Anagraphics, the document examiner will examine the entire document and consult with a specialist in the field if necessary.

If you suspect that you have a forged or altered document, protect the original document in a report cover or file folder. Avoid handling it more than necessary. If the document in question is a photocopy, do not place it in a plastic cover, but store it in a file folder.

You may be asked to obtain contemporaneous comparison documents. Begin to assemble documents that can be admitted in a court or law and that are acknowledged as being genuine. If the note is an anonymous note, and you have a suspect, assemble writings of the suspect as well as other people to create a 'line-up" and avoid prejudice.

The best evidence is the original document if it exists. However, sometimes directions for further needs and, possibly, a definite conclusion can be reached from a photocopy.

Contact Anagraphics to obtain a fee schedule and to discuss your case needs.

When you are ready to proceed, hand deliver the documents or use a bonded courier with a reliable tracking system.

Protect the original questioned document in a platic report cover or file folder. Avoid making additional markings, staple holes or folds on the document. If the original document is a photocopy, do not place it in plastic because the toner might stick to the plastic. Instead, store it in a file folder or envelope.