What is a Polygraph?
Black’s Law Dictionary defines polygraph as “[a] device used to evaluate veracity by measuring and recording involuntary physiological changes in the human body during interrogation.” While this is a precise legal definition, the term “polygraph” has come to refer to a comparative diagnostic “process” involving the actions of a highly-trained, professional examiner who conducts (1) a thorough pre-test discussion; (2) technical diagnostic polygraph testing; and (3) post-test discussions from which the examiner draws a conclusion as to whether or not his test Subject is being truthful to the relevant test issue(s).
Wachtell & Associates employ the latest version of the Axciton Computer Assisted Polygraph. This is the same instrument currently in use by many local, state, and federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies and is extremely accurate in identifying physiological responses indicative of truthfulness or deception.
How Long Will a Polygraph Examination Generally Take?
Generally speaking, a polygraph examination takes anywhere from 1.5 to 4 hours. This is dependent upon the type of testing being conducted, the complexity of the pre-test discussion, and the need for any post-test discussions required to resolve testing inconsistencies or indications of deception.
Will It “Hurt” to Take a Polygraph Examination?
No, it is not physically painful to take a polygraph examination. The polygraph instrument’s attachments, while intimidating, are non-intrusive, light-weight, and pose no harm to the test Subject.
Is It True that Examiners Ask Personally Embarrassing Questions During the Exam?
No. During the examination, the examiner will only ask the Subject questions directly applicable to resolution of the relevant test issues. There are no surprise questions, and no questions involving the test Subject’s race, gender, religion, sexual orientation or preference, political opinions, cultural values, or other issues that are deliberately designed to embarrass or demean the Subject.
Will Being Nervous Cause a Person to “Fail” Their Polygraph Test?
No. Everyone who takes a polygraph is expected to be a bit nervous. Test Subjects are given instructions on how to take the test and a practice test is conducted. Once the practice test is completed, test Subjects generally relax and their pre-test nervousness dissipate significantly, allowing the examiner to conduct a technically acceptable test.
How Will the Results of the Test Be Reported?
Once the polygraph interview is completed, a detailed written report of the test is provided to the test Subject and/or the test sponsor.
How Much Does the Typical Polygraph Test Cost?
This depends upon the type of test being conducted and the amount of time spent conducting the test. At Wachtell & Associates, we employ firm fixed prices for tests conducted for local, state, or federal government agencies and hourly fees for tests conducted for private clients. Fee structures are always discussed with clients prior to the start of the test. Payment must be made, in full, prior to the start of the test unless arrangements for deferred payment have been made with the firm.
How Do I Go About Scheduling a Polygraph Test with Wachtell & Associates?
You may schedule a test by calling Wachtell & Associates at (912)275-7422 any time between the hours of 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m EST. A representative of the firm will discuss the case with you, decide whether or not the circumstances surrounding the case are suitable for polygraph testing, and schedule a date convenient for you to take the test.
How Should I Prepare For My Polygraph Test?
There’s really no need to “study” for a polygraph test as to do well, all one has to do is follow his or her examiner’s instructions and answer all of the test questions truthfully. The night before the test, it is recommended that you get a good night’s sleep.
On the day of the test you should dress in comfortable attire as you are going to be sitting in a chair for several hours. If you routinely take medication, continue taking the medication. If you have an existing medical condition be sure to discuss the condition with your examiner prior to the start of the test as it may preclude you from being a suitable candidate for testing.
If you have an existing heart condition, you must provide your examiner with a doctor’s note attesting to the fact that you are physically able to take a polygraph test. In the absence of this doctor’s note, you will not be tested.
