Various types of appraisals performed in legal appraisals

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The methods used in legal appraisal vary widely depending on the type of appraisal, its purpose, and the subject matter to be appraised. Typical legal appraisal methods and their characteristics are described below.

1. Scientific identification

Scientific appraisal is a method of analyzing and evaluating evidence using scientific techniques. Specific examples include

  • DNA Analysis: DNA is extracted from blood, hair, skin, etc. left at a crime scene and matched to a suspect or victim.
  • Fingerprint identification: Fingerprints left at crime scenes are collected and checked against a database for a match.
  • Forensic: Determines cause of death, estimates time of death, analyzes trauma, etc.

2. Identification of engineering

Engineering appraisal is a method that uses technology and engineering knowledge to investigate the cause of defects or accidents in machinery, buildings, vehicles, etc.

  • Accident reconstruction: Recreate the circumstances of a traffic accident and determine the cause and responsibility.
  • Building Survey: Investigates structural defects and causes of fire in a building.

3. Economic and accounting appraisals

Economic and accounting appraisals are performed to analyze financial conditions and economic impacts.

  • Financial Analysis: Analyzes corporate financial reports to identify accounting irregularities and economic losses.
  • Damages Calculation: Calculate economic loss and lost earnings.

4. Document appraisal

Document authentication is a method of verifying the authenticity of a document or signature.

  • Handwriting Analysis: Verify that a handwritten signature or document is from a specific person.
  • Ink and paper analysis: Analyze the type of ink and paper used to determine when and where the document was created.

5. digital authentication

Digital appraisal is an appraisal method for digital data and electronic devices.

  • Digital Forensics: Recover and analyze data on computers and smartphones to investigate traces of unauthorized access or data tampering.
  • Email Analysis: Analyzes the history and content of emails sent and received to identify evidence of fraudulent activity.

6. psychological evaluation

Psychological appraisal is a method of assessing an individual’s psychological state and behavioral characteristics.

  • Psychiatric evaluation: Evaluates the defendant’s mental state and determines whether or not he or she is criminally responsible.
  • Behavioral Analysis: Analyzes a suspect’s behavioral patterns and psychological characteristics to determine the motives and background of criminal behavior.

Appraisal Method Selection and Procedures

In legal appraisals, it is important to select the appropriate appraisal method. The following procedures are commonly used

  1. Receipt of request: The person requesting the appraisal (court, attorney, etc.) makes the request to the appraiser.
  2. Research planning: The appraiser develops a research plan and collects the necessary data and materials.
  3. Conducting appraisals: We conduct appraisals based on selected methods. Analyze evidence using scientific methods and techniques.
  4. Report Preparation: The results of the appraisal are summarized in a report and submitted to the client. The report includes the methodology, results, and conclusions.
  5. Courtroom Testimony: If necessary, expert witnesses will testify in court to explain their findings and answer questions.

Through these methods and procedures, legal appraisals provide objective and reliable evidence and contribute to legal decisions.

Supervisor of the article


Dr. Hiroshi Oka

Director of CAP Laboratory

Graduated from Keio University, Faculty of Medicine

Doctor of Medicine

Medical Doctor