Obtaining Handwriting Specimens

uitable specimens are crucial to the successful outcome of an examination, their importance cannot be overemphasised. Remember the following points when taking SPECIMENS AT REQUEST:

*LIKE WITH LIKE* with respect to:

• STYLE - Block - Cursive - Script.
• CONTENT - Same words and do not forget the figures.
• LAYOUT - Same sort of document.
  
  Also remember:
• DICTATE - You are in control of the speed of writing.
• QUANTITY - Cheque 6 versions, signature 12 versions etc. (use separate sheets).
• PEN - Good quality ball-point.
• PREPARE - Look at the questioned handwriting and decide what is needed.
  

*THE OFFENDER MAY WELL TRY TO DISGUISE HIS SPECIMENS*
You should always assume that the specimens you have obtained are disguised and try to get NON-REQUEST WRITING. Remember the following points about non-request writing:

• SOURCE - Where do you get them from? D.S.S., diaries, letters to friends and family, etc.
• PROOF - You must be able to use them in court.
• DATE - Ideally they should be contemporary with that in question.

*THE BEST SPECIMENS INCLUDE BOTH REQUEST AND NON-REQUEST WRITINGS*

Remember it may also be necessary to obtain specimens from persons other than your suspect:

• LIMITED ACCESS - Obtain specimens from others with access.
• SIGNATURES - Obtain specimens from the complainant.