Are question document examinations purely subjective (influenced by person opinions)?

There has been a lot of hype regarding the subjectivity of various forensic sciences disciplines, such as, latent print examinations and firearm examinations.  To prove that these disciplines are a scientifically sound, there’s a need for research, application of error rates, etc.  This hype or debate was determined during a national examination of all forensic disciplines the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) report.

Discussion:

1. Are question document examinations purely subjective (influenced by person opinions)?
2. Now that you have performed analysis as a question document examiner (week 2 and week 3 assignments), do you believe that question document examinations are scientifically sound?
3. As an expert in question document examinations, would you feel confident testifying to your conclusions/opinions based on the analysis you performed in this course?
4. As a juror, what type of information would you want to be provided in court to prove that question document examinations are scientifically sound?

The National Academy of Sciences finalized a report on the current Forensic Science Practices in the United States in 2009.

Evidence Technology Magazine

http://www.evidencemagazine.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=140

Summary from an Attorney

http://www.thetruthaboutforensicscience.com/a-quick-summary-of-the-national-academy-of-sciences-report-on-forensic-sciene/