How to Collect Comparison Signatures: A Step-by-Step Guide for Attorneys and Clients
Why Proper Comparison Material Matters
Every forensic handwriting examination depends on the quality of one thing:
The known samples.
Known samples — also called exemplars — are signatures or handwriting that are already verified as genuine. They form the foundation for determining whether the questioned signature is authentic, simulated, or forged.
Good samples strengthen conclusions.
Bad samples weaken them.
Missing samples delay the entire case.
This guide outlines exactly how attorneys, clients, and investigators should gather comparison material the right way, so the examination is efficient, accurate, and court-ready.
⸻
1. Gather Signatures from the Correct Timeframe
The most important rule:
Handwriting changes over time.
To ensure a fair comparison, collect samples written within 3 years of the questioned signature when possible.
Ideal sources:
• Checks
• Contracts
• Car titles
• Bank signature cards
• Lease agreements
• Medical forms
• Government filings
• Letters and cards
• HR documents
• Loan paperwork
Earlier or later samples may still be useful, but they should supplement — not replace — contemporaneous signatures.
⸻
2. Prioritize Original Documents When Possible
Originals reveal:
• Pressure
• Pen lifts
• Speed
• Stroke direction
• Line quality
• Retouching or tremor
Scans can still be workable, but originals provide significantly more diagnostic information.
If originals are unavailable:
Provide high-resolution scans at 300 DPI or higher.
Photographs are a last resort, but usable if taken straight-on, well-lit, and without shadows or distortion.
⸻
3. Avoid “Request Signatures” Unless Instructed
Signatures written after the dispute arises can be:
• overly careful
• self-conscious
• disguised
• exaggerated
These distort natural writing habits.
If I need request exemplars, I will provide exact instructions:
• What to write
• How many times
• With which pen
• On what type of paper
• At what spacing
• Under what conditions
Never collect them without direction.
⸻
4. Do Not Mix Printing and Cursive
If the questioned writing is a signature, gather signatures, not block printing.
If the dispute involves initials, gather initials, not full signatures.
If the dispute involves cursive writing, gather cursive, not print.
The form must match the form.
⸻
5. Include Both Formal and Casual Signatures
Signatures vary based on context. A person does not sign a birthday card the same way they sign a mortgage.
Aim for a blend:
• Formal signatures (contracts, titles, legal forms)
• Routine signatures (checks, school papers, bank slips)
• Casual signatures (notes, cards, personal documents)
This helps establish natural variation, which is essential to rule out forgery.
⸻
6. Do Not Trim Documents or Crop Out Context
Full sheets are preferred because:
• Line spacing matters
• Writing frequency matters
• Pen habits change throughout a page
• Margin behavior can be relevant
• Pressure distribution is more obvious
Never cut, crop, or isolate a signature unless instructed.
⸻
7. Collect a Minimum of 10–20 Known Signatures
More may be needed depending on the complexity of the case.
Minimum:
10 meaningful samples.
Ideal:
20+ samples from different documents written close in time.
Absolutely avoid:
• Photocopies with streaking
• Signatures printed on thermal paper (e.g., gas receipts)
• Illegible samples
• Signatures written after an injury or medical decline unless relevant to the case
Every clean, usable sample strengthens the accuracy of the final opinion.
⸻
8. Maintain a Chain of Custody (Attorneys Only)
For litigation matters:
• Preserve originals in a sealed file
• Document who handled the materials
• Avoid writing, stamping, or labeling near the signature area
• Do not highlight or mark documents
A clean chain of custody protects credibility in court.
⸻
9. Provide Context When Submitting the Samples
Context helps streamline the examination.
Include:
• The signer’s age
• Known medical conditions affecting motor control
• Known dominant hand
• Timeframe of signatures
• Whether the signer was under stress
• Any documented injury
These details help interpret natural variation versus suspicious deviation.
⸻
10. Submit Samples in a Single, Organized Folder
When sending digital files:
• Label clearly (e.g., “Check 1,” “Lease 2021,” “Bank Card 2019”)
• Avoid sending screenshots of screenshots
• Provide PDFs or clean scans
When sending physical documents:
• Do not fold
• Do not staple near the writing
• Do not paperclip over the signature
This protects the integrity of the evidence.
⸻
11. When in Doubt, Ask Before Collecting
Every case is unique.
If you’re unsure what to gather, I can tell you exactly what’s needed based on:
• the document in question
• the timeframe
• the complexity
• the available materials
A 5-minute conversation can save weeks of back-and-forth.
⸻
Ready to Submit Your Documents?
📧 Hello@TigerlilyTaylor.com
📞 (214) 499-9876
🌐 TigerlilyTaylor.com
I provide clear guidance on exactly which samples you need for your case — before you commit to an examination.