Polygraph Testing — New York & Florida

How a Polygraph Examination Actually Works

A polygraph does not detect lies. It records physiological responses — respiration, electrodermal activity and cardiovascular changes — while a trained examiner asks a carefully constructed set of questions. The value comes from the question construction and the examiner's interpretation, not the machine.

A proper examination has three parts. The pre-test interview, which is usually the longest phase, establishes exactly what is being tested and ensures the examinee understands every question word for word. There are no trick questions and no surprises. The in-test phase collects the charts, typically over several repeated question series. The post-test phase covers analysis, and where indicated, discussion of the results.

What Makes a Test Reliable

• A single, clearly defined issue — multi-issue tests lose accuracy fast
• Questions reviewed with the examinee before any data is collected
• Suitable examinee condition — no intoxication, acute illness or extreme sleep deprivation
• A quiet, controlled testing environment
• Numerical scoring by an examiner with no stake in the outcome

Admissibility

Polygraph admissibility varies widely by jurisdiction and is frequently subject to stipulation between parties. Dan Ribacoff prepares every report as though it will be reviewed by opposing counsel, and will explain candidly what a result can and cannot do for your specific matter before you book.

Where Examinations Are Conducted

Testing is available at all five offices. In New York: Manhattan (60 East 42nd Street), Garden City on Long Island, and Harrison in Westchester. In Florida: Boca Raton, serving Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties. In the UK: London. Attorney-directed testing can also be conducted at counsel's offices where the environment allows.