Forensic Statement Analysis & Credibility Assessment
Using criteria-based content analysis (CBCA) and established forensic linguistic methods, we provide independent, expert-informed assessments of credibility indicators within written and verbal statements. Our role is to identify and report on qualitative features—not to deliver a standalone determination of truth or deception.
What is Criteria-Based Statement Analysis?
Criteria-Based Statement Analysis is a structured forensic method used to examine written or transcribed statements. Rather than relying on intuition or behavioural cues, it applies a systematic set of empirically derived criteria to the content of what a person has said or written.
The analysis considers several key dimensions of the statement, including:
- Content quality and specificity — the level of relevant detail, including sensory impressions, spatial information, and temporal sequencing.
- Structural coherence — how the account is organised and whether it follows patterns consistent with genuine recall.
- Internal consistency — whether the account remains logically consistent across different parts of the statement.
- Contextual embedding — the degree to which events are situated within a broader, plausible real-world context.
- Plausibility and verifiability — whether claimed events and circumstances are capable of independent corroboration.
Importantly, this method provides an expert-informed assessment of credibility indicators present within a statement. It does not, and cannot, serve as a standalone determination of whether someone is telling the truth. Findings should always be considered alongside other available evidence.
Key Principles
- fact_checkEvidence-based criteria: Each assessment criterion is grounded in peer-reviewed psychological research.
- balanceObjective and independent: Our analyses are impartial. We do not advocate for a particular outcome.
- shieldComplementary tool: Statement analysis supports, but does not replace, thorough investigation and corroboration.
- verified_userProfessional standards: All work is conducted in accordance with BPS and HCPC ethical guidelines.
What We Examine
Each statement is assessed against a structured set of qualitative indicators drawn from the established CBCA research literature.
Quantity & Quality of Detail
The richness, specificity, and relevance of reported details — including sensory impressions, spatial references, and temporal markers.
Spontaneous Corrections
Self-initiated amendments, clarifications, or admissions of incomplete memory — features often associated with genuine recall.
Contextual Information
The degree to which events are embedded within a broader, verifiable real-world setting — time, place, and surrounding circumstances.
Emotional & Cognitive Content
References to the account-giver's feelings, thoughts, and psychological state during the reported events.
Internal Consistency
Whether the account remains logically coherent across its parts, without unexplained contradictions or shifts in narrative.
Statement Structure
The organisation and flow of the narrative — including preamble length, core event detail, and post-event reporting patterns.
Alternative Explanations
Consideration of factors that might account for statement characteristics independent of truthfulness — such as coaching, suggestibility, or developmental factors.
Contamination Risk
Assessment of whether the account may have been influenced by leading questions, media exposure, repeated interviewing, or third-party discussion.
When Statement Analysis May Assist
Legal Case Review
Supporting solicitors, barristers, and courts with independent credibility assessments of witness or complainant statements in criminal, civil, and family proceedings.
Workplace Investigations
Assisting HR teams and corporate investigators with the analysis of accounts given during internal disciplinary, grievance, or whistleblowing procedures.
Safeguarding Concerns
Providing structured credibility assessments in cases involving child protection, vulnerable adults, or institutional safeguarding reviews.
Insurance & Civil Disputes
Expert analysis of claimant statements in disputed insurance, personal injury, or commercial litigation matters where account credibility is at issue.
Witness Statement Review
Systematic evaluation of witness accounts for consistency, detail quality, and structural indicators to inform case strategy and cross-examination preparation.
Investigative Strategy
Informing police and investigative teams by highlighting areas within statements that may warrant further inquiry, corroboration, or clarification.
Our Statement Analysis Process
Confidential Consultation
Initial discussion to understand the context, identify the statements at issue, and clarify your evidential requirements.
Material Review & Scope
Detailed review of statements, transcripts, and supporting documentation to define the scope and methodology.
Criteria-Based Analysis
Rigorous application of CBCA criteria and validity checks, maintaining strict independence and scientific objectivity throughout.
Expert Report
Delivery of a comprehensive, court-ready expert report detailing findings, methodology, and the evidential basis for conclusions.
Professional Outputs
Depending on the nature and complexity of each instruction, clients may receive some or all of the following outputs, tailored to their specific evidential and strategic requirements.
Initial Consultation
A confidential preliminary discussion to understand the case context, assess suitability for statement analysis, and agree the scope of work.
Document Review
Thorough examination of statements, transcripts, interview recordings, and any supporting documentation relevant to the analysis.
Structured Credibility Assessment
Systematic application of CBCA criteria and validity checks to the statement material, producing a detailed qualitative analysis.
Written Report
A comprehensive, court-ready expert report setting out findings, methodology, evidential basis, and any limitations or caveats.
Investigative Recommendations
Where appropriate, targeted recommendations identifying areas within the statement that may benefit from further inquiry, corroboration, or clarification.
Expert Consultation
Ongoing advisory support, case conferencing, or oral evidence at hearings and tribunals where the instructing party requires direct expert input.
Important Limitations
Statement analysis is a valuable forensic tool, but it operates within clearly defined boundaries. We are transparent about what it can and cannot do.
- block Does not determine guilt or innocence. Statement analysis assesses credibility indicators within an account. It is not a tool for establishing legal culpability or exoneration.
- search_off Does not replace investigation. Our analysis complements — but never substitutes for — thorough investigative work, forensic evidence gathering, and due process.
- balance Must be considered alongside corroborating evidence. Findings should be weighed in the context of all available evidence, not treated as a standalone conclusion.
- record_voice_over Interview quality matters. The reliability of any statement analysis is influenced by the conditions under which the original statement was obtained, including interviewing technique and environment.
- contextual_token Context is essential. Individual, cultural, developmental, and situational factors must be accounted for when interpreting credibility indicators.
- history Disclosure history is relevant. The number, timing, and circumstances of prior disclosures may affect statement characteristics and are always considered in our assessment.
Need an independent assessment of a statement’s credibility?
Submit a confidential enquiry. Our team will review your requirements and advise on the most appropriate analytical approach for your case.