Assessment of the Identification Value of Handwriting Features and Individual Graphical Elements in Forensic Handwriting Examination

ABSTRACT: Forensic handwriting examination requires not only the assessment of similarities and differences but also an evaluation of their relative importance for writer identification. This methodological study proposes a formalized framework for quantifying the identification value of handwriting features and individual graphical elements. The model distinguishes identification value from similarity grade and combines three components: objective discrimination power based on feature prevalence, relative discrimination power derived from forensic comparison data, and case-specific presence and representation. Identification values are subsequently transformed into weights for use in a formalized handwriting comparison model. Data from the HSDetect handwriting database and the HSForen forensic examination database are used to illustrate the calculation and practical behavior of the proposed components. The numerical values obtained from the current databases are treated as preliminary and illustrative rather than as validated population parameters or established measures of forensic performance. The proposed framework provides a transparent and empirically adjustable method for differentiating the contribution of handwriting findings while preserving expert interpretation. Further research using larger datasets, independently established ground truth, reliability testing, and external validation is required before the resulting weights can be considered validated for forensic casework.