A professional who examines handwritten material or other questioned documents to identify author, detect forgery, or determine method used to alter documents. Responsibilities include:

• Confers with laboratory specialists, such as chemists and photographers, to determine which scientific processes are necessary to effect analysis.
• Examines hand or typewritten sample to detect characteristics, such as open loop, quaver, or t-cross peculiar to an individual, using microscope.
• Measures angle or slant to estimate degree to which letters and lines vary from perpendicular, using protractor.
• Compares paper specimen with manufacturer's samples to ascertain type and source.
• Compares photographic blowup of written or typed specimen obtained from separate sources to ascertain similarity or differences.
• Works in consultative capacity to various agencies or organizations, including police force, and testifies in legal proceedings.