Frequently
Asked QuestionsFrequently
Asked QuestionsWhat is the cost of a document examination?
While the specific costs can be found in "Fee Schedules," most simple examinations, such as signature comparisons, do not exceed the NDL minimum retainer of U.S. $1,500.00, including Report of Findings. While court costs are separate, we find that testimony becomes necessary in only about 5% of our casework.
How long does an examination take?
Turnaround times are usually inside of 5 business days from receipt of evidence to return of evidence with either verbal or published report.
Who has used NDL services?
A comprehensive list of past and present clients (since 1990) is available at our Client List. This list includes hundreds of attorneys, corporations, and government agencies.
I do not have the original documents, only photocopies, can you work from those?
While original documents are always preferable (except in suspected photocopy forgery cases), often good, crisp, clear photocopies can be used where originals are not available. At times, the definitiveness of the resultant opinion(s) may be lessened because of the quality of the photocopy. Facsimile, microfiche and other forms of machine copied documents may further lessen the definitiveness of the examination.
Can inks be dated?
In the vast majority of instances, inks simply can not be dated. That is to say, a suspected ink can not be associated with a specific date, such as "The questioned ink was manufactured in 1987." There are some one or two forensic examiners who have specialized in this area and have some limited capability herein.
Relative ink dating can, however, be accomplished in some instances. That is, was a specific ink area written before or after another area of similar composition ink.
How do I get the evidence to you?
As NDL is located in South Florida, messenger service is available locally, however we suggest FedEx or similar service outside the South Florida area. We do not recommend sending original materials via mail. Further information can be found in Evidence Handling.
What is the format for using questiioneddocuments.com in a bibliography?
Norwitch, Frank Harley. Norwitch Document Laboratory. "(Specific page titles)." Online. Available http://www.questioneddocuments.com. (Date you accessed site). Also see information in our copyright section.