Our Ethics

Forensic Document Examiners Pty. Ltd. has for its purpose the promotion of justice through the discovery and proof of facts relating to questioned documents, and to maintain and advance professional standards in the field of forensic document examination.

Our Professional Ethics

To further the above aims each of our Forensic Document Examiners pledges to abide by the following rules of conduct (which have been adapted from the ASQDE Code of Ethics, 1992):

1. To apply the principles of science and logic in the solution of all document problems and to follow the truth courageously wherever it may lead.
2. To keep informed on all new developments and processes in document examination by constant study and research, with a full realisation that accuracy is possible only through competence and diligence.
3. To treat information received from a client as strictly confidential; and when a matter has already been undertaken, to refuse to perform any services for any party whose interests are opposed to those of the original client, except by express consent of all concerned, or where required by established administrative procedure or by law.
4. To render an opinion or conclusion strictly in accordance with the physical evidence revealed in the document examination, and only to the extent justified by the facts. To admit frankly that certain questions cannot be answered because of the nature of the problem, the lack material, or insufficient opportunity for examination.
5. To act at all times both in and out of court in an impartial manner and to do nothing that would imply partisanship or any interest in the case, except the proof of the facts and their correct interpretation.
6. To give the best possible services in all cases, irrespective of the importance of the matter, and to decline to act in any case in which surrounding circumstances seriously restrict adequate examination.
7. To charge for services on a basis which considers the extent and character of professional services rendered. Remuneration shall be fair and equitable considering all the elements in the case. No engagement shall be undertaken on a contingent fee basis.
8. To make technically correct and conservative statements in all written or oral reports, testimony, public addresses or publications, and to avoid any misleading or inaccurate claims.
9. To maintain a constant spirit of fairness, combined with high ethical, educational, and technical standards, thereby promoting justice and creating increased confidence in the profession of forensic document examination; and by exemplary conduct and scientific thoroughness carry out the aims of Forensic Document Examiners Pty. Ltd.