THE JUDGE AS A HANDWRITING EXPERT

Abstract

In the presented study, the author raised the issue of the possibility of questioned document examination, including handwriting examination, by the judge in civil proceedings. The article presents both the position of doctrine and case law in this regard. Considerations in this regard included e.g. special knowledge that experts performing handwriting examinations should have, factors determining the image of handwriting and the consequences of combining the role of judge and expert in a proceeding. The article is a critical voice concerning the discussed issue.