We can provide an achievable 95 – 98% accuracy for our polygraph examination as we have a strict operating framework which relies on 4 main factors where conditions all need to be satisfied to the gold standard.

An experienced and accredited examiner from the top echelon of the industry
Up-to-date and highly effective modern polygraph testing equipment and interface
The correct environment which is to be void of distraction or disturbance
Pre-examination screening of examinee to make sure they abide to our conditions

The American Polygraph Association (APA) will tell you that a properly conducted session, with specific questions will give a result of between 95% to 98% accuracy. As with any scientific experiment there is no guarantee of 100% as there are natural variances which need to be provisioned for and taken into consideration.

Learn more

• Understanding the Fight or Flight Response and the Lie Detector Test
• 9 Elements That Can Affect the Outcome of a Lie Detector Test

In our examination process, we prioritize methods that offer the highest levels of accuracy and reliability. To this end, we exclusively use polygraph testing. Polygraph tests are widely recognized for their effectiveness in assessing truthfulness by measuring physiological responses like heart rate, blood pressure, and perspiration.

On the other hand, we do not use voice stress testing. This method, which analyzes changes in voice patterns to detect stress and thereby deceit, is not as reliable or accurate as polygraph testing. The science behind voice stress analysis is less established, and it’s more prone to inaccuracies.

Similarly, we do not utilize eyeDetect. While eyeDetect is a newer technology that analyzes eye behavior to detect deception, we have chosen not to include it in our examinations. This decision is based on our preference for the more established and widely validated method of polygraph testing, ensuring that our results are as accurate and reliable as possible.

Learn more

Understanding Voice Stress Detection: What is It?

If a person refuses the chance to clear their name using a polygraph, that alone does not suggest guilt. We have experienced many cases where the subject was just nervous about the experience and this is justifiable as it is not an experience which anyone is accustomed to on a regular basis. Our examiners provision for nervousness and are trained to counter defensive behaviour which can be often perceived as guilt for one matter but relate to another matter entirely.

More

• Understanding the Psychology: Why Guilty Individuals Might Take a Lie Detector Test
• Why Would Someone Lying Agree to Take a Polygraph

The top lie detector in law enforcement and security is the polygraph. This device accurately measures physiological reactions—like heart rate and skin conductivity—to questions, helping experts identify truthful responses. Leading in this technology are Lafayette Instrument Company and Stoelting Co., known for their reliable and precise polygraph machines

No. You may feel a slight discomfort or pressure from the blood pressure cuff on your arm, which is inflated for the duration of the test, but it is no more uncomfortable than if a nurse or Dr was taking your blood pressure. In fact, the cuff will be slightly less inflated than in a medical situation, so discomfort should be minimal, if at all.

This is a situation which has been exploited (unsuccessfully) by many people who think they can beat the polygraph. Nerves will NOT affect the outcome of the examination, and for good reason. If you are nervous at the beginning of the test, as most people are, you will remain nervous throughout the test. Your reactions to answering truthfully and deceitfully will still differ and will still look very different to each other, thus giving us a clear indicator of guilt or otherwise.

More: Can Nervousness Influence a Polygraph Test

Definitely not! Not taking your prescription drugs could be dangerous, and in fact, could interfere with the test. The vast majority of prescription drugs will not interfere with the accuracy of the test as we need you to be as ‘normal’ as you would be on any other day. In our pre-examination assessment we check for any medical conditions and advise accordingly. More: Can I Take Prescription Medication Before a Polygraph Exam

Many people think they can beat the polygraph test, and in older versions of the test it was possible. However, with today’s technology, there are measures in place to detect any attempt to tamper with the test. Moreover, you would not only be up against the equipment, but you would also be trying to fool highly experienced and trained examiners, people who are well aware that some will try to beat the test.

More: Will a Polygraph Examiner Detect Use of Countermeasures in a Lie Detector Test

The short answer would be no. However, in order for the test to be accurate, the subject does need to possess a good level of language and to understand the concept of truthfulness. Some children under the age of 16 may not possess that comprehension, so this limit is set on that basis. More: Can I Use a Lie Detector on a Child

All questions proposed must elicit “yes” or “no” answers.

Connective words (conjunctions) such as “or”, “and” etc. cannot be used since they make questions obscure and multi-sided. This leads to inconclusive results.
Drawn out, lengthy questions are not recommended. The fewer words used to construct them, the better.
The more questions related to the same matter, the more authentic the results will be. The examiner will suggest a range of different ways to rephrase questions so that they encompass every facet.
All questions must evolve around facts that are known, not opinions.
Questions must be constructed on one matter at a time. Multiple issues cannot be covered because the answer to part of the question could be true and other parts false, leading to obscure and inaccurate results.
Our examiners are specially trained in wording questions correctly so you can rely on their expertise.

Infidelity

In matters of infidelity you can’t ask if the subject loves someone. The reason for this is because there are many different types and degrees of love. Any answer to this question would effectively be an opinion.

Asking the subject if they will ever do something again or if they will do something in the future is not permitted. The polygraph is not a crystal ball and nor is the subject. For example, the subject may not at the time of the test intend to cheat on a partner but the next day could easily have a change of heart.

Raising things that may have been said or done during an argument is not a good idea. This especially applies if the person was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They invariably can’t remember exactly what was said or done in such circumstances. The accuracy of the test can be affected when a person simply cannot remember.

Questions related to sexual contact can be proposed. However, the examiner may rephrase them to avoid embarrassing or startling the subject.

If an issue is complex or acute, the subject will benefit from a written precis of all facts and detailed information that exists. The examiner can then pose statement based questions to verify the subject’s honesty or lack thereof.

Theft

When dealing with theft, up to 4 questions can be asked although ordinarily 3 are sufficient. Below are example questions that may be posed to someone suspected of stealing.

Do you know who stole ‘X’?
Did you steal ‘X’?
Do you know where the missing ‘X’ is?
Did you intend to steal ‘X’?
Did you benefit from stealing ‘X’?
Before the theft of ‘X’ occurred did you know it would happen on ‘X’ day?

False accusations

A person who has been falsely accused of something may take a lie detector to prove their innocence. Statement verification is the most efficient method for this type of test.

Normally there is a mountain of background information leading up to false accusations. The polygraph examiner will benefit greatly from receiving a summary of events in order to formulate the appropriate statements that need to be verified. Statement verification requires “yes” or “no” responses. Questions may be asked along the following lines:

Did you do ‘X’ as Mrs A stated?
When you denied being involved in ‘X’ were you lying?

Drug abuse:

If a subject is suspected of drug abuse, it is recommended that the individual has blood tests taken by a qualified medical professional so that the results are available.

All questions posed will elicit “yes” or “no” responses, for example:
Apart from the drugs mentioned, have you used any other illicit drugs in the past ‘X’ months?

Domestic abuse

Polygraph examinations conducted to establish domestic abuse are usually emotionally charged and need to be handled with sensitivity. Statement verification is the most appropriate way of establishing the truth. Questions must be unambiguous and precise:

Did you hit ‘X’ on the face with your hand?
Did you use your hands on ‘X’ without permission so as to cause harm?
Did you use swear words/expletives when rowing with you wife as she alleges?

Learn more: 10 Most Asked Questions During Lie Detector Tests

For accuracy the examiner will repeat a series of questions during the test a minimum of 3 times to ensure consistency. When seeking “yes” or “no” responses no more than 3 questions can be asked of the subject.  Changes or modifications to the precise wording of questions may possibly be made by the examiner to ensure they are defined and specific. Depending on the complexity of the case under investigation the examiner may wish to add a further question relative to the other 3.  This may be for expansion or confirmation of a result. The additional question will be at the sole discretion of the examiner if it is felt more evidence may be acquired. However, the norm is that only 3 questions are asked. More: How Many Questions Are Typically Asked in a Polygraph Test 

The polygraph machine measures changes in your blood pressure, heart rate, respiration, sweat gland activity, and transitions in your skin’s electrical response. These vital signs change when the brain and nervous system initiate the “fight-or-flight” response. The examiner can determine if the changes in your vital signs indicate signs of deception. More: Lie Detector Tests: What Physiological Responses Occur When We Lie

The examiner will thank you for your time and ask you to leave the room after concluding the lie detector test. They will not give you the result of your test after you finish. The examiner takes your data back to their office for post-analysis, and they’ll give your employer the test results a day or two after concluding the exam.

Your boss may ask you to return to work after finishing your exam. You don’t have the right to use it as grounds to take the rest of the day off. However, most employers give their employers a break after taking the lie detector test to allow them to recover from its effects on the nervous system.

Full Article: What Happens After I Finish My Polygraph Exam

The cost of a lie detector test for investigating infidelity can vary significantly depending on the location and the specific service provider. On average, the price for such a test typically ranges from $500 to $800. This variation in cost can be attributed to a number of factors including the expertise of the examiner, the complexity of the case, the duration of the test, and any additional services that may be required. It’s also important to note that while some regions may offer more competitive pricing, others might be higher due to local demand and the cost of doing business.

We advise consulting our specific location listings for precise, fixed pricing details.

A full detailed test report is provided via email to the client within 24 hours of the test having been conducted or 48 hours if sent via tracked mail, whichever is requested by the client to the examiner on the day of the examination. In certain circumstances, the examiner, will provide the results verbally on the day of the examination to the person who made the booking. However, on occasions the examiner may wish for the charts to be crossed examined by another examiner before providing the results in which case the results will not be given verbally. More: The Frustration of Waiting for Your Polygraph Results

Every single case we have is as important as the last, so the time spent on putting you at ease, making sure you know the process and explaining the importance of honesty is time well spent because it ensures that we get the most accurate results possible.

On the surface that does seem like a long time, but the actual polygraph test will usually take the least amount of time. The majority of the time will be taken up by us talking. We will discuss the issue at length, which means we can ask the most pertinent questions possible, which in turn gives the most accurate results. We need to make sure you are physically well enough for the test, and that you understand the difference between lying and telling the truth.

You will have the opportunity to tell your side of the story in full, and, once we have compiled a list of the questions to be asked you will be told what those questions are before the actual test begins. Once the polygraph examination is completed, we will then give you the results and discuss them before you leave. It is quite a lengthy procedure but it does go by quickly!

Our examiners’ work involves considerable flexibility, including travel time and expenses. Therefore, a $100 non-refundable booking fee is necessary upon scheduling your appointment. This policy ensures that those who book are genuinely intending to undergo the test, reducing the likelihood of cancellations that result in unrecouped expenses and lost compensation for our team.

This approach also deters individuals who might be inclined to schedule a test to feign innocence without the intention of actually taking it. It is crucial to only make a booking when you are confident that you or the test participant will be able to fulfill the commitment.

Our polygraph service prides itself on being highly accessible, offering appointments during various hours to suit our clients’ diverse needs. Such flexibility requires us to be diligent in our fee collection and scheduling to maintain reasonable service fees. Our policy is specifically crafted to mitigate situations where we encounter lost opportunities and resources due to no-shows, particularly after incurring travel expenses. This is precisely why the polygraph test must be fully paid for once the booking is definitively confirmed, ensuring commitment and minimizing the risk of cancellations.

In summary, the $100 booking fee is non-refundable once an appointment is set. While free consultations are always available, we kindly ask that appointments be scheduled only when there is certainty of attendance to ensure the efficiency and sustainability of our services.

We offer flexible payment options for our clients as follows:

1. Book a test with a non-refundable booking fee of $50 then pay the balance when you have completed the pre-examination process. This gets the payment out of the way giving you one less problem to worry about and ensures your test is conducted without delay.

2. Reserve a date, time and location for a polygraph test by paying a non-refundable booking of $50. The remaining balance has to be paid 48 hours before the test. This allows sufficient time for you to complete the pre-examination form and prepare for the test. With this option the test must be taken within one month of the booking date.

This is one of the most frequently asked questions we get. The price of a polygraph test is not dependent on the amount of questions you want the subject to be asked, and here’s why.

A lie detector test will become ineffective if too many questions, or too many different questions, are asked. When you see a tv show in which the examiner asks question after question after question, you should know that the show is for entertainment purposes – the results will not be accurate. Equally in asking one question, the same process, focus and procedure must be taken. If a company offers you a cheaper price for 1 question then please verify their credentials.

Let me explain this further; a polygraph test should only ever be used to gain the truth about one issue. Only one. Each question should be regarding the specific issue. This way, if the subject answers dishonestly on any of the questions he will fail the entire test because all the questions are related to that one, single issue.

Our professional polygraph examiners will only conduct examinations in accordance with testing procedures and protocols recognised by the American Polygraph Association. We will not conduct substandard examinations. A properly conducted polygraph examination will result in accuracy rates of 95 to 98 percent whereas an improperly conducted examination will result in accuracy rates that are no better than the flip of a coin. If you are told it is 100% accurate then there is something not quite right as any scientific test must consider variance.

Each session can take anywhere from 90 minutes to three hours to complete, but to answer the initial question ‘No, the price does not vary according to the number of questions asked’, because we will only ask the amount of questions needed to ensure an accurate result.

Yes, you have the right to refuse an employer’s request to take a polygraph. Your employer may not force you into taking a lie detector test as that practice is in violation of the EPPA. However, if you refuse to take a polygraph, and all your co-workers comply with the request, it may reflect poorly on you in the workplace. While the employer cannot officially take any action against you, it may raise suspicion with them.

If you’re applying for a job and the employer asks you to take a polygraph as part of your conditions of pre-employment screening, you have a right to refuse their request. The EPPA states that employers may not use polygraphs in the pre-employment screening process. However, some industries are exempt from complying with the EPPA and the pre-employment screening regulations. While the employer may not officially hold this against you, they may tell you they found another more suitable candidate. More: Can I Refuse to Take a Lie Detector Test

No, employers may not fire you if you fail a polygraph. A failed result is not grounds for dismissal; if your employer fires you because of the failed result, you have legal recourse against them. You can hire an attorney to represent you, and they’ll file a complaint with the US Labor Department on your behalf.

If you fail a polygraph, your employer may not use the test results to harass or intimidate you in the workplace. If your employer takes action against you that makes your working conditions less desirable, you have legal recourse against them.

Related: Will I Be Able to Get Another Job If I Fail a Lie Detector Test 

No, your employer may not intimidate you into taking a polygraph test at work. You have the right to refuse the lie detector test request. Your employer may not use intimidation tactics to scare you into taking the exam; if they do, you have legal recourse against them. You’ll hire an attorney, and they’ll help you file a complaint with the US Labor Department against your employer. More: Preventing Intimidation During a Lie Detector Exam 

No. No one may watch the polygraph exam inside the examination room. The only people present in the exam room are the examiner and examinee. If your employer was in the room, it could skew the test results because it would likely make your feel nervous. However, your employer may watch the exam through a 2-way mirror if they retain your permission to do so. You’ll have to give them written permission and sign these documents before taking the lie detector test.

Related:

Can an Employer Watch the Lie Detector Exam Through a 2-Way Mirror

Preventing Intimidation During a Lie Detector Exam 

The EPPA prevents private sector employers from implementing polygraph testing in pre-employment screening and random or selective polygraph testing. However, there are some industries that are exempt from the EPPA due to the nature of their business.

Companies involved in pharmaceutical manufacturing, high-value asset transport, security, and similar services may implement polygraph policies in the workplace. These policies aim to vet new hires and any staff that may present a risk to the business.

For example, a company involved in pharmaceutical manufacturing may pre-screen candidates for positions to ensure they don’t have a drug habit. Likewise, a company engaged in high-value asset transport may polygraph candidates to ensure they aren’t hiring criminals.

Government institutions and organizations operating in the public sector do not have to comply with the EPPA guidelines. Organizations like the FBI, CIA, and DoD may pre-screen candidates and institute a policy of random and selective polygraph testing for their employees.

Related:

Polygraph Exams for Government and State Security Clearance

 Yes, the EPPA allows certain exemptions to the Act for private-sector employers. For instance, if a theft results in a significant economic loss for the employer, they may implement a polygraph policy to uncover the thief. Similar examples will be if the company experiences cases of fraud, sexual harassment, or drug abuse in the workplace. More: EPPA – Employee Polygraph Protection Act

The examiner asks you questions pertaining to the reason why they are conducting the exam. For instance, if the employer experiences a theft in the workplace resulting in a sizable economic loss, they can implement a polygraph policy. Questions the examiner may ask the examinee include the following versions.

Have you ever stolen from your employer?
Have you ever lied to your employer?
Are you responsible for the inventory theft?
Do you have any outstanding debts you can pay off?

The employer may not ask you questions surrounding your personal life. They aren’t interested in what you do in your free time. If the examiner violates these conditions of the EPPA, they can lose their license. The examiner will issue the employer a list of questions they plan to ask the examinees during the lie detector test. Per the EPPA, your employer must share these questions with you before taking the lie detector test.

Related: 10 Most Asked Questions During Lie Detector Tests

 Your employer must give you advanced notice of their intent to polygraph you. You must receive at least 48 hours notice before the planned exam date. The employer must go through all the aspects of the polygraph exam before the test, and you’ll have to sign several documents to prove they followed the correct legal procedure. Employers that fail to do this are liable for a violation of the EPPA.

No. Your employer may not divulge the results of your polygraph exam to anyone but direct line managers who have responsibility over you in the workplace. Your employer may not release the test results if another employer calls them asking for a reference. Doing so is a violation of the EPPA, and you would have legal recourse against them for this behavior.

We realise that one location will not be convenient for many people, so to that end we do travel to various locations across the country, as long as a suitable venue is available or your residential address satisfies the test criteria.

Yes, you can research information about the polygraph exam before you take the lie detector test. In fact, the examiner prefers it if you do because it better prepares you for the polygraph exam. When you come to the exam well prepared, there’s less chance you’ll feel nervous. The employer and the examiner must answer all your questions about the polygraph exam’s aspects before they can start the lie detector test. The examiner aims to make you feel completely at ease and relaxed before they start the polygraph test.

A countermeasure describes a technique used to “fool” the polygraph machine and the examiner. There are several types of countermeasures. However, due to the advancement in polygraph technology and the integration of software and advanced examiner training, most examiners can spot if you’re using a countermeasure during the lie detector test.

There are physical countermeasures and informational countermeasures. For instance, a physical countermeasure might be biting your cheek or curling your toes when answering questions. An informational countermeasure might involve researching countermeasures the night before the exam in the hope of finding a way to beat it.

Many people assume they can drop a Xanax the hour before the lie detector test, and this practice will help them pass the test, even if they’re guilty. However, that’s not the case. The examiner will determine that you’re using this countermeasure when assessing your vital signs and stress response. They’ll ask you if you’re using a countermeasure like Xanax, and you’ll have to reply honestly.

The only time it’s permissible to use Xanax in a lie detector test is if you have a prescription for the drug. Other drugs like beta-blockers are another popular countermeasure, but trained examiners will spot that you’re suing them and call you out on it. If they discover you’re using Xanax or beta-blocker in the test without a prescription for the drug, it’s an instant fail.

Caffeine influences the nervous system, increasing feelings of stress and anxiety. Drinking too much coffee on the morning of the exam may interfere with the accuracy of the polygraph, and you could potentially fail your lie detector test. Drinking a cup or two of coffee the morning of your lie detector test is fine. However, please don’t overdo it. Stick to your normal routine and try not to make any changes. It’s also important to note that tea and energy drinks contain caffeine.

Yes. You have the right to leave the polygraph exam room at any time. The examiner may not force you to stay in the room or complete the test. Your employer may not force you to remain in the exam room or complete the test. Some people may feel anxious or stressed during the test. If they have an anxiety disorder and don’t take medication before the exam, they may experience a panic attack due to an overreaction to the body’s fight-or-flight response.

Previously, circa 1990, polygraph machines had 60% to 70% accuracy rates. However, the advent of computers and software advanced polygraph technology tremendously. Modern polygraph machines operate using sophisticated software and algorithms that detect minor changes to your vital stats.

When we’re under stress and have to lie during the lie detector test, it initiates the “fight-or-flight” response. We have no physical control over this bodily function; it’s part of the “autonomic nervous system.” Even people with good emotional control can’t get around the fight-or-flight response, making it very difficult to deceive the polygraph machine.

You must get around the examiner even if you beat the machine and appear normal. Many examiners have thousands of tests under their belt, and they have plenty of experience in sniffing out deceptive behavior and the use of countermeasures during the exam.

The legality of polygraphing children in the United States does not prohibit minors from undergoing a lie detector test. However, it’s important to consider the child’s willingness and the ethical implications. In some cases, such as school policy violations or serious accusations like abuse, a guardian or legal authority may decide to use a polygraph test. It’s essential to ensure that the child understands the process and its purpose.

There’s no specific legal minimum age for polygraph testing in children. Still, due to the cognitive and emotional development required to understand and effectively participate in the test, it’s generally recommended for children over 12. Each case is unique, and the decision to conduct a polygraph on a younger child should be made with careful consideration of the child’s comprehension abilities and the specific circumstances involved.

Polygraph tests for children might be considered for various reasons, including school violations, suspicions of theft or drug use, and verifying allegations in abuse cases. However, it’s crucial to approach such situations with sensitivity and the guidance of professionals experienced in working with minors.

Find out the legal aspects of polygraphing minors

What Routine Should I Use to Prepare for a Polygraph Exam?

What Should I Eat Before a Polygraph Exam?

Can Nervousness Influence a Polygraph Test?

Analog and Computerized Lie Detectors

The Evolution of the Lie Detector Machine

Understanding the Fight-or-Flight Response and the Lie Detector Test

How Do Mental Health Problems Like Depression or Bipolar Affect Polygraph Testing?

The Psychology of Lying and Deceptive Behavior

Why Are Polygraph Results Inadmissible in Court?

Understanding the Employee Polygraph Protection Act

Lie Detector Tests That Have Resolved Crimes

How Police Use Lie Detector Tests to Their Advantage

What Can Cause a False Positive on a Polygraph

What Behavior Does a Polygraph Examiner Look for in a Lie Detector Test

Use of Lie Detector in Relationships

Can I Use a Lie Detector on a Child?