Fundamentals of Handwriting, Signature, and Fingerprint Analysis

Handwriting, Signature, and Fingerprint Analysis / Forensic Document Examination

Handwriting, signature, and fingerprint analysis are vital components of forensic science, widely used to verify document authenticity, detect forgery, and aid in criminal investigations. In Bangladesh, both government and private institutions provide these services, playing a significant role in judicial and administrative processes.

Fundamentals of Handwriting, Signature, and Fingerprint Analysis:

This analysis is typically conducted in three major phases:

1.                Sample Collection & Observation:
Both questioned and genuine reference samples are collected. The handwriting and document features are then examined in detail.

2.                Comparative Analysis:
Similarities and dissimilarities between two or more samples are analyzed. Techniques such as graphology, geometric analysis, and ink testing are used.

3.                Expert Opinion & Report Preparation:
A detailed report is generated, which can be used as evidence in court to prove the authenticity of signatures or handwriting.

How is Handwriting Analysis Performed?

Handwriting analysis follows scientific methods, focusing on the structure and patterns of writing. It is also known as graphology or handwriting examination.

Major Steps:

1.                Visual Analysis:
Evaluation of writing style, size, spacing, pressure, ink spread, etc.

2.                Comparative Analysis:
Differences between the questioned and reference samples are identified by analyzing stroke patterns, line quality, curves, and connections.

3.                Ink and Paper Examination:
Structure of the paper, chemical composition of ink, and depth of writing are examined. UV light, infrared light, and microscopes are also used when necessary.

Signature Analysis:

Key Steps:

1.                Stroke Speed & Pressure Analysis:
Examines how fast or slow the signature was made and the amount of pressure applied to the paper.

2.                Stroke Pattern Examination:
Reviews the shape, curves, and connections within the signature, observing subtle shifts in hand movement and control.

3.                Technical Tools & Software:
Expert examiners utilize analytical tools and digital software to assess signatures.
Finally, a legally admissible expert report is prepared.

How is Fingerprint Analysis Performed?

1.                Types of Fingerprints:

1.                Arch: Wave-like patterns

2.                Loop: Spiral-shaped patterns

3.                Whorl: Circular or spiral patterns

2.                Fingerprint Collection Methods:

1.                Dusting Method: Uses powder to lift latent prints

2.                Chemical Method: Makes hidden prints visible through chemical treatment

3.                Digital Scanning: Captures high-resolution fingerprint images

3.                Comparative Fingerprint Analysis:
Specialized software and AI are used to match questioned prints with reference prints.
Experts analyze minutiae points and specific fingerprint characteristics.

Where to Get These Services in Bangladesh?

Government Institution:

CID Forensic Lab (Criminal Investigation Department):
One of the leading forensic analysis centers in Bangladesh. It conducts court-referred signature, fingerprint, and document analyses. Located in Malibagh, Dhaka.

1.                Address: CID Headquarters, Malibagh, Dhaka-1217

2.                Phone: +8801320019998

3.                Email: addligcid@police.gov.bd

4.                Note: CID does not accept private documents for analysis without court order.

Private Institution:

Bangladesh Institute of Forensic Psychology & Sciences (BIFPS Consultancy Ltd.):
The only private forensic service-based company in Bangladesh that offers document, signature, and fingerprint analysis services to individuals, companies, and institutions.
The final analysis report is signed by an officer authorized by the Government’s Controller of Certifying Authority (CCA).
Each report or certificate includes a QR code that links to a government server for verification.

1.                Address: 1/85/C, Eastern Bonobithi Shopping Complex (10th Floor), South Banasree Project Road, Dhaka-1217

2.                Phone/WhatsApp: +8801988896656

3.                Email: forensicbd.org@gmail.com

4.                Website: www.forensicbd.org

Legal Provisions Supporting Forensic Document Reports in Bangladesh:

1.                Evidence Act, 1872:
Section 45: Expert opinions, including handwriting, signature, and fingerprint analysis, are admissible as evidence.

2.                Criminal Procedure Code, 1898 (CrPC):
Lays out procedures for forensic examination, rights of the accused, trial, and appeals.

3.                Other Relevant Sections of the Evidence Act:

1.                Section 47: Opinions from individuals familiar with the handwriting in question can be considered.

2.                Section 73: Disputed signatures can be verified by comparing them with acknowledged signatures.

When Can You Use This Service?

1. Before Filing a Case:
Individuals can verify the authenticity of a document’s signature or fingerprint before initiating legal action.

2. For Lawyers’ Assessment:
Lawyers may use the service to decide whether to accept a case or evaluate the validity of provided documents.

3. For Urgent Reports:
CID reports can take months. For faster results (within 3–5 days), clients often turn to BIFPS Consultancy.

4. For Report Verification:
If a client or their legal representative is dissatisfied with the findings of a report issued by the CID, they may contact BIFPS Consultancy for a second opinion. If the second report aligns with the first, the client gains confidence in the result and can accept the verdict with ease. However, if the findings differ, the court typically considers both reports and may question the experts from both parties regarding their respective opinions. To ensure full transparency, the court may even order a third-party verification if necessary.

5. To Strengthen the Weight of Evidence:

To fight a legal case and ensure a fair judgment, sufficient witnesses and solid evidence are essential. Therefore, clients may choose to verify a report issued by a forensic expert to strengthen the weight of their evidence and enhance their chances of receiving justice.

6. For Any Other Reason:

Beyond the reasons mentioned above, any individual may privately request handwriting, signature, or fingerprint analysis on documents such as agreements, stamps, notebooks, or any written material for personal or legal purposes.

Procedure for Receiving the Service:

1.      Application:
A formal application must be submitted to the relevant institution or forensic expert.

2.      Sample Submission:
The client must provide the questioned signature or fingerprint along with one or more reference samples for analysis.

3.      Examination & Analysis:
Experts examine the samples, assess handwriting styles, and analyze specific forensic criteria to generate a conclusive report.

The forensic report provided by the expert can be submitted as admissible evidence in court. Notably, the experts at the Bangladesh Institute of Forensic Psychology & Sciences (BIFPS) also appear in court when necessary to present their expert opinions.

Conclusion:

Forensic document examination plays a crucial role in detecting forgery, supporting criminal investigations, and establishing legal authenticity. As this service is now easily accessible in Bangladesh through both government and private channels, its demand has significantly increased. The institutionalized efforts of private organizations are contributing notably to the country’s forensic service landscape and are proving to be valuable assets in the legal process.