Detecting Document Alterations – Erasures, Additions, and Overwriting

In legal disputes, one simple change on a document, like erasing a number or changing a
date can make a big difference. Whether it’s a will, a contract, or a signed check, even small
alterations can lead to major consequences. At America’s Handwriting Expert, we use
forensic document analysis to uncover signs of tampering and help you know if a
document is real, changed, or fake.

When you’re dealing with questionable documents, it’s important to work with trained
professionals. Our team uses scientific tools and court-approved methods to find changes
like erasures, additions, and overwriting. Learn more at America's Handwriting Expert.
Why Document Changes Matter
In many legal cases, the outcome depends on a single piece of paper. If that paper has been
changed in any way, it could lead to fraud or unfair results. Some common examples
include:

● Changing the amount on a check
● Adding or removing information from a contract
● Altering the date on a legal agreement
● Modifying details in a will or trust

These changes are often hard to see with the naked eye, which is why forensic document
experts are so important. We look closely at the document to spot even the smallest signs of
tampering.
The Three Main Types of Alterations
1. Erasures
This is when someone removes writing from a document. It can be done using an eraser,
sandpaper, or even computer software. Even if the surface looks clean, the paper fibers may
be damaged, and there may still be tiny ink traces left behind.
Using tools like special lights and magnification, we can find evidence of erasures, even if
they are invisible to the naked eye.
2. Additions
This happens when someone adds something new to a document that wasn’t there
originally. For example, an extra zero might be added to increase a dollar amount, or a new
sentence might be added to a contract.
We use ink testing and handwriting analysis to see if these new parts match the rest of the
document. Often, we find differences in pressure, style, or ink type that prove something was
added later.
3. Overwriting
Overwriting means changing existing writing by writing over it. This is often seen in altered
dates or amounts, where someone changes a "3" into an "8" or adjusts the year.
This type of alteration can leave signs like ink layering, uneven strokes, or pressure
changes. Our tools help reveal these details to show whether the writing has been changed.

How We Find Document Alterations
At America’s Handwriting Expert, we use a variety of methods to detect changes in
documents, including:
● Microscopes to examine paper and ink closely

● Infrared and ultraviolet lights to see hidden ink or erased text
● Video Spectral Comparators (VSC) to identify ink differences
● Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA) to find hidden writing impressions

These tools help us analyze the document without damaging it, which is important in legal
cases.
Helping You Build a Strong Legal Case
Whether you're a lawyer or a private individual, knowing if a document has been altered can
be key to your case. We work with clients across the country to provide expert reports and
courtroom testimony.
Our services include:
● Full forensic document analysis
● Expert reports written in clear, easy-to-understand language
● Support for court cases and legal disputes
● Handwriting comparison and signature verification

We also explain our findings in a way that makes sense to judges and juries. Our work is
based on established forensic standards and backed by years of experience.
Trust Professionals in Forensic Document Analysis!
When documents are important, you need answers you can trust. That’s why it’s important to
work with experienced questioned document examiners. Our job is to find the truth and
provide expert insight that can stand up in court.
If you have a document you’re unsure about, don’t wait. Reach out for help today. We’ll
examine it carefully and let you know if it’s been altered, when it was changed, and how the
change was made.
To learn more about how forensic document analysis can help your case, visit America's
Handwriting Expert. We’re here to help you find the truth, one document at a time.