That may be, but:
It was Rathergate that brought me to FR in the first place. Rathergate taught us all that document experts can't really give an opinion unless they examine the actual document. Alred knows this: That's why she won't let anyone examine the yearbook for real.
You are absolutely correct. Nothing can be done without comparison handwriting samples. These samples are best if they were from previous writings vs. current exemplars. Songer made that clear. It was easy to obtain prior writings. If signature, then DL used. Possible letters, contracts, etc... I was very impressed. Prior I have worked with all types of experts. They basically say what they are paid to say.
He didn’t say it WAS his signature only that it appeared as his signature. I heard (not sure as to veracity) that she copied his signature from her divorce papers that then-Judge Moore signed.