The word polygraph is derived from the Greek word polugraphos, for “many” (poly) “message” (graph).

A polygraph is a device that measures an individual’s involuntary physiological responses to questions–analyzing differentiations in respiration, heart rate, blood pressure and perspiration–to  determine if the individual is being truthful in their answers. The polygrapher uses data recorded by the polygraph to render an opinion regarding truthfulness. It’s important to remember that the machine doesn’t obtain the truth, the polygrapher has the responsibility of rendering an opinion of truthfulness based on the totality of the interviewing and polygraphing process.

There are three potential outcomes that can be offered by the polygrapher:

  1. There were no significant signs of deception (the subject was truthful);
  2. There were significant signs of deception (the subject was not truthful);
  3. The test was inconclusive (an opinion could not be rendered).

Modern polygraph equipment is computerized rather than scanned onto paper, but the measuring devices used today are much the same as years past.

Why use a polygraph? First, there are no known devices or methods of lie detection that are fool-proof. However, the polygraph is considered to be the best tool that investigators can use to solicit the truth. Typically, the polygraph is utilized in one of two ways; to screen for information regarding an individual’s unknown conduct over a period of time (i.e., Have you been involved in criminal conduct since becoming an adult?); or, to test the knowledge of a subject regarding a known or unknown fact (i.e., Do you know the whereabouts of Jane Doe?). Polygraphs used for screening purposes are normally conducted on law enforcement recruit candidates or other government official positions, whereas the latter test is more common in soliciting truthfulness in either civil or criminal cases.

Our Pittsburgh private investigators at FORLETTA will help you learn who is credible. Using our polygraph test process, we will first conduct a preliminary assessment of the information provided by the client. We’ll then interview the client regarding any allegations, develop questions to ask, conduct a polygraph examination, and provide a detailed report of the findings. By the end of the polygraph examination, you should have all your answers. It’s imperative to hire the right polygrapher with the right credentials, and Forletta employs one of the best in the nation. Remember–it’s not the machine, it’s the polygrapher.

We serve:

Lawyers – As difficult as it is to interview a witness on the stand, it’s even more difficult if you can’t tell he’s lying. Hire FORLETTA to perform a Cleveland or Pittsburgh polygraph examination before you lose credibility.

Government – Telling falsehoods is generally frowned upon, but especially in governmental positions. Help your branch of government maintain a standard of integrity by employing FORLETTA to conduct polygraph exams.

Knowledge is power and knowing the people you surround yourself with is vital, so enlist FORLETTA to conduct polygraph exams at your law office or government building.

FORLETTA takes a stand for the truth by supplying you with the following:

  • Polygraph Examinations
  • Background Checks
  • Handwriting Analysis
  • Witness Interviews

Finally, consider the following:

  • 80% of employee turnover is due to bad hiring decisions– The Harvard Business Review
  • The cost of a bad hire? 30% of employee’s annual earnings- U.S. Department of Labor

Call FORLETTA today for your free consultation. We’re here to help you establish and maintain a safe, honest, and worry-free work environment.