Lacunae in Forensic Handwriting Examination: Scope for Exploitation

Abstract

The process of forensic handwriting examination consists of two steps: the first step is the objective phase of the process and requires correct ocular observation to make a note of similarities and dissimilarities in the two samples of writing; the second step is subjective phase and depends on proper evaluation of what is observed based on expert’s belief, assumption and experience. The second phase, because of its subjective nature, can also be exploited by dishonest expert resulting in conflicting evidence. This scenario is obviously disruptive for justice, and generally weakens the credibility of this type of evidence.

Keywords

• Forensic science
• handwriting comparison
• objective analysis
• subjective evaluation
• evaluation exploitation
• conflicting reports
• identification