What is a Questioned Document Investigation?

A questioned document investigation is an inspection of documents that may be forged or otherwise fraudulent.

How Does a Questioned Document Investigation Work?

Let's say John Doe dies and leaves behind a will giving everything to Sally Jones. Sally Jones is 40 years younger than John, and she has a reputation of being somewhat of a gold-digger. John's children, infuriated that they receive none of John's $50 million estate, hire an investigator to conduct a questioned document investigation. The investigator determines that John's signature on the will is forged.

Why Does a Questioned Document Investigation Matter?

In the financial world, questioned document investigations are usually conducted on legal documents, suspected counterfeit money or heirlooms, and similar items. The work involves a considerable amount of science and research but can create significant consequences for probate hearings and financial transactions.