Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions we often receive about our services:
How accurate are Polygraph Tests?
Scientifically, error rates (with accurately conducted tests) are less than 10%. Recent studies report 95% to 98% accuracy. The polygraph test is the only reliable and validated means to discover lies and obtain the truth.
Who uses Polygraph Examinations?
Most Federal, State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies. The U.S. Attorney Offices, District Attorney Offices, Public Defender Offices, Defense Attorneys, Parole & Probation Departments. Private Citizens with issues that do not involve the legal or criminal justice system, and attorneys in civil litigation.
Can I test my employees?
The Employee Polygraph Protection Act of 1988 (EPPA) generally prevents employers from using lie detector tests, either for pre-employment screening or during the course of employment, with certain exemptions.
Will my medication have an effect on my test?
If you are taking maintenance medication make sure you take the prescribed medication on the day of the test. All examiners want your physical reactions to be normal. Not taking your medication could have an effect. Always let your examiner know what type of medication you are taking. The examiner should ask anyway.
Will I be asked surprise questions?
No. Every question will be discussed with you word for word prior to the examination. You will actually help the examiner formulate the questions. The examiner is here to help you prove you are telling the truth. If there is a question that you are not comfortable with, your examiner can re-word the question or simply eliminate the question.
What does a polygraph examination cost?
The cost of the test varies with the type of examination needed. The type of test and the anticipated results should be discussed thoroughly with your examiner who can then provide the fee that will be charged.
Will being very nervous during polygraph examination cause a problem?
It is very normal for an innocent person to be nervous. Nervousness on the polygraph charts does not look like deception to the polygraphist. Nervousness does not prevent the polygraph examiner from determining the difference between truth and deception.
Do you have an office location?
CM Tipton Polygraph has two office locations. We have a polygraph suite in the City of Orange and we have another in Santa Ana. We also have a mobile unit that can conduct exams anywhere. Many examiners don’t do enough business to have an office. Therefore, they insist on doing it at your home. These so-called polygraph examiners don’t have the proper professional tools or the experience either.
How do you present your results?
CM Tipton Polygraph provides a written report for all cases. Some Polygraph examiners will charge extra for a written report. Whether we are conducting a polygraph examination for the legal community or a member of the community, we provide the same professional polygraph report.