Clare Sayer

Forensic Handwriting Expert and Document Examiner

Clare Sayer is a skilled and trusted Handwriting Expert and Document Examiner based in Auckland, New Zealand. Clare’s handwriting analysis services are offered nationwide, and around the South Pacific region.

Clare combines cutting-edge techniques with meticulous observation, drawing on her expertise in psychology, linguistics, and document examination to deliver comprehensive and science-backed analysis.

Clare’s dedication to truth, detail and clear communication guarantees you will receive an exceptional professional experience in any legal, civil or private matter.

  • Signature authentication

  • Will disputes

  • Contract disputes

  • Authorship identification

  • Forgery detection

  • Altered documents

  • Anonymous correspondence

  • Expert witness testimony

Services include:

Professional Handwriting and Document Analysis Services

  • Do you have a document with a questionable signature or signatures?

    Signature authentication is the process of determining whether a questioned signature on a document is genuine or a forgery.

    Clare is able to conduct meticulous analysis of various factors, drawing upon her expertise in handwriting characteristics, and employing scientific methods utilizing laboratory tools.

    The questioned signature is compared to verified, known samples of the individual's genuine signature.

    It is important to provide a sufficient number of comparison standards.

  • Do you have a document whose authorship is unknown among a group of possible authors?

    Authorship identification involves uncovering the writer behind a questioned document, even when they haven’t signed it.

    This intricate process relies on Clare’s meticulous analysis of handwriting characteristics, and drawing parallels with known samples or reference populations.

    It is important to provide a sufficient number of comparison standards.

  • Do you have a document which you suspect may have been forged?

    There are three types of forgery: simulated forgery, mimicking another person’s handwriting directly; traced forgery, copying outlines from a genuine document; and freehand forgery, forging based on knowlege of the genuine style.

    A forger may practice to mimic letter formations and overall writing style. However, detection relies upon Clare identifying subtle inconsistencies between the copied and genuine writing, such as variations in line quality, pressure, spacing, pen lifts, or overall rhythm.

    Forgery detection depends upon Clare’s deep understanding of individual writing styles and their natural variations.

  • Do you have a document which you suspect may have been altered?

    Document alteration methods include: physical alterations such as erasures, additions or overwritings; content alterations whereby the meaning or message of the document might be manipulated through changes in wording, insertions, fabrication of sections, date or dollar modification; mechanical alteration whereby a photocopier is employed to reproduce a document with alterations made; digital alteration whereby computer software and/or digital tools are utilized to modify and reproduce documents.

    Clare acts as a detective of a unique kind, scrutinizing documents for hidden manipulations and revealing attempts to deceive. Clare uses specialised skills and laboratory tools such as infrared imaging, spectrophotometry and microscopy to detect this type of forgery.

  • Do you have an anonymously authored document?

    Clare provides analysis of anonymous correspondence for a variety of purposes, depending on the context and the specific questions that need to be answered.

    Clare's handwriting analysis, drawing comparisons to known samples, holds the potential to reveal the document's author, whether an individual or group.

    The type of paper, ink, and any other physical characteristics of the document can also provide Clare with clues about its origin.

    Utilizing her skills in linguistics and forensic document examination Clare is able to examine the language and content which may reveal insights about the author.

  • Clare is available as an expert witness in legal proceedings, providing her specialized knowledge and analysis of contested documents.

    Adhering to the Schedule 4 Code of Conduct for Expert Witness, Clare ensures the highest ethical standards and unbiased analysis.

    A confident and articulate communicator, Clare delivers her expert testimony with poise and clarity. Her unwavering confidence in her analysis stems from meticulous attention to detail and proven methodology.

    Clare stands by her work with complete conviction, ensuring you receive reliable and impactful testimony for your case.

Professional Analysis Reports

Clare is able to provide a basic report in letter format, outlining her findings and opinion.

This report requires a minimum of 2 charged hours.

Basic Report

Intermediate Analysis

Clare is able to provide a full report of her findings and opinion, complete with explanations and 2-3 pictorial image displays.

This report requires a minimum of 4 charged hours.

Clare is able to provide a comprehensive and detailed report complete with full explanation of findings and pictorial image displays.

Advanced Document Examination


Services are provided at a rate of $160NZD per hour, or fixed negotiated fee.


When you connect with Clare, she will guide you through the process. Clare will begin by discussing the nature of your case and the specific concerns you have. This initial conversation will help her determine the most appropriate type of report for your needs. Clare will then provide you with clear instructions on the documentation required for her comprehensive analysis.

About Clare Sayer

Clare Sayer is a dedicated Forensic Handwriting and Document Examiner based in West Auckland. Driven by a passion for detail and a commitment to truth, she offers meticulous analysis and insightful solutions for your legal, professional, civil or private needs.

Clare is an astute, detail-oriented specialist with a passion for language in all its forms. Clare’s interest in linguistics and psychology, coupled with a fascination with criminology, led her to this highly specialised field.

Qualifications:

  • Apprenticeship with Renowned Expert: Clare's journey began with a two-year apprenticeship under the esteemed Mike Maran, a highly experienced Handwriting and Document Examiner. During this time, she actively participated in various forensic investigations, analysing wills, business and matrimonial contracts, anonymous notes, graffiti, and more. This invaluable real-world experience provided Clare with a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges of forensic document examination.

  • Academic Excellence: Clare’s foundation lies in a university background in psychology and linguistics, further fortified by the prestigious Reed Hayes Training Course in Handwriting and Document Examination. Clare achieved a remarkable 99% in the final exam and maintained a stellar 99% coursework average, demonstrating exceptional dedication and aptitude.

  • Experience: Clare’s experience encompasses a diverse range of clients in the public and private sectors, both nationally and internationally. This includes government agencies, tertiary learning institutions, leading businesses, professional bodies, insurance fraud investigations, and numerous private law firms.

Professional affiliation:

  • As a member of the Scientific Association of Forensic Examiners (SAFE), Clare upholds the highest ethical and professional standards in the field.

Clare’s analytical mind, keen eye for detail, and clear communication skills are crucial assets in helping you navigate the complexities of your case. Clare is a trusted partner who will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you receive objective and reliable findings.

Testimonials

“Clare delivered on a very constrained timeline and was excellent at communicating on the progress she made through the whole process. All of this was done within the agreed budget with no surprise. Clare wrote a very detailed report and provided valuable insights. I would 100% recommend Clare's expertise without any hesitation.”

— Mounir Z.

“Clare's assistance during our recent employment dispute was invaluable. Her attention to detail and thorough investigation ensured we had a comprehensive understanding of the situation. Throughout the process, Clare maintained excellent communication, keeping us informed and involved in every step. Her high level of expertise was evident in the amazing report she delivered, which proved incredibly helpful in resolving the dispute. Thank you, Clare, for your outstanding work!”

— Annemarie J.

“I recently needed to have a signature authenticated for a legal matter. I contacted Clare and was immediately impressed by her professionalism and knowledge. The final report was clear, concise, and highly detailed, leaving no room for doubt about the authenticity of the signature. I highly recommend Clare to anyone needing expert forensic handwriting and document examination services.”

— John M.

Contact

Contact Clare for a confidential consultation regarding handwriting comparison, identification services, document alteration detection, or expert witness testimony.

clare.sayer@outlook.co.nz
(+64) 21 954 212

P.O Box 69133
Auckland, 0645