Q: What is forensic linguistics?
Forensic linguistics is the scientific analysis of language as evidence in legal cases. By examining everything from written documents to spoken words, we can uncover hidden truths, identify anonymous authors, and even determine if someone is lying.
Q: What kind of cases do you take on?
At Spencer Analytics, we work on anything involving language, including authorship disputes, threat assessment, trademark infringement, plagiarism, voiceprinting, speaker profiling, spectrographic analysis, audio enhancement, handwriting samples, and encrypted communications. If it involves language, we can handle it.
Q: How accurate are your methods?
Our cutting-edge techniques are over 95% accurate in determining authorship and linguistic profiling. While no method is perfect, we stand by our results and regularly update our methods to reflect the latest research.
Q: What if the recording I need you to analyze is unclear?
Don’t worry. We can always clean and enhance it to make it crystal clear! We have also created numerous systems including the Proprietary Voice Verification Algorithm™ (ProVA™) which has the highest level of accuracy in the field, and can even successfully analyse third-generation and extremely poor quality recordings.
Q: Can your findings hold up in court?
Absolutely. Our analyses are prepared to withstand the scrutiny of cross-examination. Dr. Spencer has been described as “unshakable on the stand.”
Q: How long does it take to get a report?
For most cases, we can provide a full report within 48 hours. For complex cases, we may need up to five business days.
Q: Do you provide free consultations?
Yes! Spencer Analytics offers a free initial 15-minute consultation. During this session, we will review your case details and provide an assessment of how forensic linguistics can help. We can also negotiate success-based fees in certain cases.
Dr. Morgan Spencer outside Marlington Crown Court, taking a break from a day of intense cross-examination to discuss strategy in her latest criminal case with her instructing lawyer.
Q: How do you ensure confidentiality?
We take confidentiality very seriously. Your case details are stored on a secure server, and only Dr. Spencer and authorized staff have access. We will never discuss your case without your express permission.
Q: Can you train us to use forensic linguistics in-house?
Yes, we offer training workshops for legal teams and corporate clients. Our sessions cover everything from identifying deception in emails to understanding linguistic cues in negotiations. In more advanced CPDs, Dr. Spencer can even train specialists in how to determine whether a speaker is simply nervous, deceptive, or even guilty.
Q: What happens if your analysis disagrees with other experts?
While disagreements between experts can happen, we’re confident in our methods and findings. Dr. Spencer’s research, expertise, and rigorous approach ensure that our work speaks for itself.
Q: What qualifications does Dr. Spencer have?
Dr. Spencer holds advanced degrees and has extensive experience in the field. Her groundbreaking work has influenced countless cases and received widespread recognition.
Q: Can forensic linguistics solve cold cases?
Yes! Language evidence can shed light on even the oldest mysteries. We have experience uncovering leads and solving cases in situations where traditional evidence has run out.