FAQ

What credentials should a qualified Forensic Document Examiner have?
A qualified Forensic Document Examiner has completed a structured full-time two year training program that provided instruction in all facets of Forensic Document Examination. Areas of instruction include examination processes of handwriting, typewriting, rubber stamps, watermarks, computer-generated text, alterations, obliterations, indented writing, fracture match, and printing processes. Professional science organizations to look for when reviewing the credentials of an FDE expert include:
  • American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) (the Questioned Documents Section)
  • American Board of Forensic Document Examiners (ABFDE)
  • American Society of Questioned Document Examiners (ASQDE)
  • International Association of Identification (IAI) (QD Section)
  • Southwestern Association of Forensic Document Examiners (SWAFDE)
  • Southeastern Association of Forensic Document Examiners (SAFDE)
Should the Forensic Document Examiner be certified by the American Board of Forensic Document Examiners, Inc (ABFDE)?

Yes. The American Board of Forensic Document Examiners, Inc (ABFDE) was established in 1977 with a grant from the United States Justice Department. The American Board of Forensic Document Examiners Inc. is the only forensic document examiner certification body recognized by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS), a multi-science professional organization. ABFDE is accredited by the Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board (FSAB). ABFDE Board certification provides assurance that the FDE’s character has been vetted and that he or she has completed a formal two year training program in a recognized laboratory.

How do I determine whether or not I need a Forensic Document Examiner?

There is no charge for the initial consultation, which will include discussion of your documents and determination as to whether the examination will be single-faceted or multi-faceted. A single-faceted examination involves one type of examination, such as the examination of a disputed signature. A multi-faceted examination involves two or more examinations. A multi-faceted examination may include a handwriting examination, an examination to detect indented writing, and an examination of obliterated text. Contact us at 702-682-0529 or at forensicdynamicsllc@gmail.com for your free consultation.

Do I need the original documents or will copies suffice?

Original documents are always preferred, but they may not be available or have been destroyed. A good quality photocopy can be used in a forensic document examination. Even though a photocopy may be acceptable for examination, there are limitations in the examination process. For example, a “cut and paste” of a signature or insertion of text may not be detected.

How do I retain the services of Jan Seaman Kelly?

During the initial consultation, a conflict check will be conducted to insure I do not have a conflict with your case. Upon receipt of the retainer and the signed Agreement for Expert Services, I am retained and can begin the examination of the submitted evidence. Contact Jan Seaman Kelly at 702-682-0529 or at forensicdynamicsllc@gmail.com to discuss your case.

Do you accept cases outside of Las Vegas?

Yes. Even though I am based in Las Vegas, I accept cases from all jurisdictions in Nevada; from the Pacific Northwest including northern California, Portland, Oregon, and Seattle, Washington; and, from Idaho, North Dakota, Arizona, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.

Are criminal and civil cases accepted?

Yes, forensic document examinations and footwear impression evidence examinations are accepted in criminal and civil cases from the states of Nevada, Arizona, northern California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.