Forgery is difficult because no two people write exactly alike. It is impossible to duplicate the subconscious habits of another writer. A forger will tend to draw rather than write a signature. A trained forensic document examiner can identify forgery, in part, because of his ability to identify the natural tremors that show up under microscopic examination.

Your signature can be easily forged if:

1. You over-simplify it (what I call “doctor’s handwriting”)
2. You write slowly
3. Your signature varies widely from one signing to the next
4. You have a low skill level

Use the same signature for signing all legal documents, as well as the same kind of pen and ink. If you write a lot of checks, gel-based ink is best to defend against “check washing.” Practice your signature until you become skilled at signing it rapidly, and stylize your writing until it is difficult to imitate.

It is also advisable to have more than one signature: the one you use for correspondence, and one you use for signing legal documents.

Remember, any unique style you can introduce to your signature to individualize it will make it easier to prove your case, should you be the victim of forgery or identity theft.

This articles was originally submitted by Thomas Grogan, a member of the first graduating class of the forensic school.