Questioned Writing

Identifying the Writer:

Requests for the examination of documents and/or the writing on the documents can be either through direct client contact or through an attorney. There is no charge for the initial consultation by phone or at my office.  Confidentiality is always of primary importance. If hired, a signed contract and a non-refundable retainer is required to initiate any examination of documents.  The signer of the contract is responsible for payment. The contract itemizes the hourly rate, fees for court preparation, testimony, and any additional necessary expenses.

Since circumstances vary considerably, details of each case will have to be discussed on an individual basis. Sufficient known standards will need to be gathered to be used for comparison with the writing in question. A list of places that such exemplars can be found will be provided if needed. Originals are preferred; however, if they are not available, clean and clear copies are also acceptable. After the examination is completed, the client will be called to see if a report is warranted.

Anonymous Letters:

All information mentioned above also applies to identifying anonymous note writers. Letters and notes that are written anonymously include but are not limited to such things as threatening and harassing statements, fraudulent mail, bomb threats, and shared scandalous personal information.

The collection of evidence is critical. It is recommended that that any and all potential evidence is immediately preserved in its original state and placed in protective covers when possible. Scandalous and/or harassing information can usually be handled in house. Appropriate law enforcement agencies should be notified for any information that includes death threats and/or any other threats that potentially put others’ lives in danger in some way. 

It is also imperative that you do not speak to anyone but those who need to be directly involved in the case. The suspect is, more than likely, in your immediate environment.  Anonymous note writers are often trying to get revenge for some injustice he/she feels has occurred. Confidentiality is vital in situations such as these because there is a very strong possibility that the anonymous writer is frequently observing your reactions and those around you; and more than likely gets satisfaction from watching the angst that has been caused.

References:

A selected list of attorneys who have retained my services are available upon request. The list includes cases that have been settled as well as trial cases in which I have testified.