Polygraph testing, is more than connecting you to an instrument and asking questions.  The polygraph examination involves three distinct phases.  The pre-test phase, the in-test phase, and the post-test phase, which includes chart analysis.  Examination times can vary between 1 ½ to 4 hours. 

During the pre-test phase, the examiner acquires basic information about the examinee, discuss the issue to be tested and with the examinee’s assistance, develop and review the questions asked during the test.  The examinee is acquainted with the scientific instrument and its purpose. 

During the in-test phase, the test is administered, utilizing only questions reviewed and agreed upon.  The instrument sensors will collect physiological readings of specific areas of the examinee.  The resulting readings are recorded on charts which are later analyzed and discussed. 

During the post-test phase, the recorded charts are analyzed, and the examiner provides an opinion to the truthfulness of the responses provided.  If areas of concern are noted, the examinee is provided an opportunity to explain reactions to particular questions.

Polygraph uses:  Polygraph examinations verify information of past acts or behavior.  Polygraph examinations are used by multiple levels of government, and various federal and state law enforcement agencies.  Testing is additionally utilized by U.S. and state district attorneys, public defenders, private attorneys, parole/probation officials, security companies, and private parties.  Employers also uses polygraph testing when it falls under the specific reasons allowable under the 1988 EPPA guidelines for theft, sabotage or espionage.  Please review http://www.dol.gov/dol/compliance/comp-eppa.htm for specific allowances.

Who uses Polygraph Examinations:

Polygraph Examinations offer valuable utilization to a wide variety of end-users.

Legal Community:  Attorneys (Prosecution/Defense), Public Defenders and Attorneys in civil litigation.

Law Enforcement Agencies:  Federal, state and local law enforcement agencies,  U.S. and State Attorneys Office, the courts and parole/probation officers.

Treatment Therapist:  Medical professionals engaged in the behavioral treatment of individuals for sex crimes, (See Association for Treatment of Sex Offenders (ATSO) and American Polygraph Association (APA) guidelines and recommendations).  Treatment professionals involved in treatment for substance abuse, marital, domestic violence and gambling additions.

Probation/Parole:  Officers charged with monitoring the activities of convicted sex offenders to assist and supplement public safety measures.

Marital and Family Counselors:  Support and/or reinforce treatment goals.  Under these uses, a key aspect is to rebuild and reinforce trust.

Private Sector:  Private Citizens in matters not involving the legal or criminal justice system.

Business Sector:  Companies and Corporations under the limits of the Employee Polygraph Protection Act of 1988 (EPPA)

The most valuable aspect of the investigative use of polygraph testing is to help exonerate the innocent person surrounded by circumstantial evidence.  It is particularly valuable in those investigations that rely only on testimonial evidence.  At the same time, polygraph testing is very helpful in investigations involving multiple suspects by narrowing the focus of the investigation.