What is a primary function of forensic document examination?

A primary function of forensic document examination is to analyze handwriting and signatures for authenticity. This process involves a detailed comparison of questioned documents with known samples to determine if they were produced by the same individual. Forensic document examiners utilize various techniques, including magnification, microscopy, and chemical analysis, to evaluate the characteristics of the handwriting, ink, and paper used in the documents. Their findings can significantly impact legal outcomes, as authenticating signatures or handwriting can confirm or refute the legitimacy of documents presented in court.

The other choices pertain to different areas within forensic science. Creating legal documents is not a role of forensic document examiners and does not relate to forensic analysis. Collecting evidence from crime scenes and photographing crime scenes are tasks typically associated with crime scene investigators or law enforcement officers, rather than document examiners. These roles focus on gathering and preserving physical evidence from locations where crimes have occurred, which is crucial but distinct from analyzing documents.