FAQ
Accurate Lie Detector Tests New Zealand Wide
A polygraph test is not something that you do every day. It is sometimes a last resort to get to the truth. You may suspect your partner of infidelity or suspect an employee of theft. Whatever it may be, Lie Detector New Zealand can assist by getting truthful answers.
Please see below frequently asked questions that are received from past clients or people considering our services.
Client FAQs
Is Lie Detector Evidence admissible in a NZ criminal or civil court?
Yes it is. The Evidence Act 2006 section 25(1) provides for the admissibility of expert evidence. This can only be determined by the judge who will consider the evidence on a case by case basis to ascertain if it is likely the evidence will be substantially helpful.
When a subject lies to an examiners question on the polygraph; that false answer stimulates a fear of detection to the attempted deception. That fear of detection to the deception stimulates a variety of physiological responses in the examinee's body. Some of these physiological responses are recorded on moving computerised chart and subsequently analysed to determine truthful, deceptive or inconclusive.
A deceptive person may say one thing but their physiological responses will say another. These physiological responses are autonomous and cannot be controlled. In essence, the person’s physiology responses have a voice of their own and speak the truth.
How do I get a polygraph test done?
Simply visit the “Contact” page, fill out the information and you will be contacted as soon as possible or call direct 033238656 or email info@liedetector.co.nz
How long does it take to get an appointment?
Depending on demand but by the time we receive your deposit/payment and process your application it usually takes approximately one week.
Is it compulsory to have a polygraph test done?
No. No one can be forced to undergo a polygraph test. The tests are totally voluntary.
What kind of questions can be asked?
The polygraph test questions will vary according to the case issue but all questions are specific and pertinent to the issue to be resolved. Questions only require a “yes” or “no” answer and with no explanation or qualification. Please see the services page for examples.
Are there any surprise questions?
No. The examiner will discuss and review all questions to be asked in the test with the examinee. There are no trick or surprise questions.
Who makes up the test questions?
The examiner in conjunction with the person requesting the test will formulate a main test question(s). The examiner will fine tune the question(s) if necessary prior to the appointment. All test questions will be reviewed with the examinee prior to any testing.
Can I be in the room during someone else's exam?
No. In order to preserve a sterile environment, no one other than the examiner and examinee can be in the examination room during the procedure. Polygraph is a diagnostic procedure which can be adversely affected by distractions.
Will the test be recorded?
Yes the test is recorded on video and audio. This is purely for the professional benefit and protection of the examiner and is to protect both parties by ensuring the process is conducted in accordance with professional standards. It may assist the examiner in subsequent chart analysis.
What is the approximate time involved for a test?
Typically a test involving 3 series will take approximately 2.5 - 3 hours.
Why do prices vary so much depending on where you take the test?
Like anything else, the price of a polygraph test is market driven. Some exams may be as low as $800 while others may exceed $1000. It also depends on the type of examination, issues to be resolved, the complexity of case and travel costs associated with your location.
What if I can't get to your office?
We will travel to your location, home or office for an additional fee. Be sure to have adequate facilities available. This includes a quiet private room for testing, free from clutter and distractions, with a table or desk and two chairs - one chair with fixed back and no wheels.
Can someone under age 16 take a polygraph?
Yes, but we must have written consent of a parent or guardian. However, we will not test anyone under 12 years of age unless in extraordinary circumstances.
What do I get for my money?
You will receive a professional polygraph examination administered by a trained and experienced polygraph expert at the location you selected.
At the completion of the examination you will be given a verbal report and have your charts shown and the results explained to you.
A comprehensive written report will be sent to you within a week.
How does the test process work?
- After the initial communication you will be sent a selection of available test dates and a "Booking Procedure" attachment.
- We receive and review the facts surrounding the case
- The examiner designs the specific test questions. This is done well prior to the actual test appointment.
- At the appointment the examiner explains the test process to the examinee
- The examiner conducts an extensive pre-test interview with the examinee regarding the case and reads and reviews each question to the subject to make sure each one is easily understood.
- The examinee is attached to the polygraph instrument and given additional instructions
- Each test is conducted a minimum of three times while the examinee is attached to the polygraph sensors
- After all charts have been run (tests completed), the examiner analyses the charts. A verbal result is rendered concluding truthful, deceptive or inconclusive.
NOTE:
The average polygraph exam takes 2.5 to 3 hours to complete.
How should someone prepare for taking a polygraph?
A person should be well-rested and free of any extraordinary fatigue or stress factors on the day of the exam. This means getting a good night's rest, eating normally, and avoiding stressful incidents, arguments, etc. prior to the exam.
If the person is taking regular prescription medications they should continue taking those medications. If the prescription medications are taken infrequently or as needed then we generally advise not to take these medications until after the exam. It is ok to take aspirin or other mild over-the-counter medications, which should have no effect on the exam. It is normal to be concerned about the exam and a certain amount of nervousness will be expected by the examiner.