Forensic polygraph applications
Polygraph test in legal cases | Lie detector applications in justice system
Forensic polygraph tests are mostly applied to defendants looking to prove their innocence.
Especially in cases where charges are based on someone’s accusations without any physical evidence or witnesses, a polygraph test can be the only procedure to test or confirm somebody’s innocence.
That is why forensic polygraph has started to find its place within the justice system. With the popularization and access to more professionals, it has become more available.
Difference between conventional polygraph testing and forensic polygraph
Normal polygraph tests will basically follow the same procedure as the forensic polygraph.
Nevertheless, some variables are treated in a different way:
Case facts will be thoroughly analyzed to recognize the right test target. The objective of the test will be determined in combination with the defendant’s lawyer. A normal test will be based on the charges presented by the prosecution.
The polygraph techniques used, have all been accepted as validated formats by the American Polygraph Association.
Finally and this the most time-consuming part of forensic polygraph testing, write the report of findings. This report needs to be self-explanatory and expose the procedure. It needs also to be clear why the forensic psychophysiologist arrives at his/her professional opinion.
Graphs, technique, scoring have to be included and explained so that test can be cross examined.
How does it work?
You are accused of something you did not do but do not know how to prove it. The forensic polygraph can help.
If you don’t know for sure if the forensic polygraph can solve your problem, you can always contact a B.E.A.R. FORENSICS representative. An initial talk will help you understand if forensic polygraph can be applied in your case.
So the most important in the first place is to understand if a professional exam can help you in proving your innocence. Once this is confirmed the next step is to gather all the information about the case and transmit it to the polygraph examiner. The expert will then examine the data and draw the questionnaire.
The day of the exam make sure you had a good night rest. If you are taking drugs, medicine or have some kind of addiction make sure you inform the examiner.
There is only one way to pass a polygraph test and it is, to be honest. Make sure you answer all the questions honestly and follow the instructions given to you by the expert since clean polygraph charts are paramount for analysis and peer review.
The final forensic polygraph report will then be drawn by the forensic psychophysiologist so that you or your legal representative can present it to the relevant parts or authorities.
What cases can be handled with forensic polygraph
Not every case can be solved with forensic polygraph. Unfortunately, there is a popular perception about polygraphs that do not match reality. One might mistakenly think to be able to use this instrument to prove everything. Yet, this is far from possible.
Nevertheless, the forensic polygraph can be of great help, especially if the case is based on someone’s testimony that is in linear contradiction with someone else’s statement.
Most dealt with cases:
- Sexual harassment accusations
- Sexual abuse accusations
- Rape allegations
- False accusations
- Criminal behavior accusations
- Domestic violence complaints
- Criminal negligence accusations
- Statement verification (Proof of truth)
- Witness statement verification
The list is not exhaustive as every situation can be different and circumstances change from case to case. If you need to prove your innocence or have falsely been accused and don’t know how to prove it, do not hesitate to contact us.
Also, check this post on the use of polygraph in the justice system.
