In a world where truth often hinges on the smallest details, Dianne Peterson has built a career out of analyzing and deciphering them. As an industry-leading Forensic Handwriting Expert and Certified Forensic Document Examiner (CFDE), Dianne is the president and founder of Forensic Document Investigations (FDI), an authority and arbiter of clarity in cases clouded by forgery and fraud of legal records such as wills, estates, deeds, and financial documents.  

With over 1,500 expert opinions rendered on questioned document cases internationally, Dianne’s work has helped individuals reclaim their identities, protect their livelihoods, and seek justice. When asked what motivates her, Dianne said, “I love discovering the truth. Getting to the truth in a case, or any context, can improve your position because you will understand better how to meet the challenge that you are facing. Truth brings direction or redirection, and that, in and of itself, is valuable, and to me, also a life lesson.” 

Though recognized as a leading voice in the industry now, Dianne’s path to forensic fame wasn’t a straight line. For nearly 28 years, she worked as a dental hygienist, until a book on graphology sparked a fascination that would eventually become her second career. In 2009, she earned her certification as a forensic document examiner, turning a quiet interest into a powerful profession.

Those most acquainted with Dianne recognize that her passion for truth is matched only by a deep love for people. A lifelong resident of Putnam County, Dianne was raised on her family’s dairy farm and now lives in Baxter, Tennessee, with her husband and biggest supporter, Chris, and their beloved Beagle, Austin. Together, they’ve built a life rooted in family and service. Their three children, Morgan, Olivia, and Will, are all married, and Dianne delights in her role as grandmother to Turner and Ellie.

At the core of both her career and family, faith is central to Dianne’s life. She and Chris teach a young adults Sunday School class at First Baptist Church Cookeville, and Dianne actively supports nonprofit ministries including Heart of the Cumberland and Mustard Seed Ranch. When she’s not analyzing handwriting or mentoring young adults, you’ll likely find Dianne in her greenhouse, tending to her flowers with the same care and attention she brings to every aspect of her life. Gardening, like forensic work, requires patience, observation, and a deep appreciation for growth.

Dianne sees her work as a platform for positivity and change, both locally and beyond the borders of her community. By following passion and talent, she has altered not only the course of her journey but that of many others. When asked what she would like to say to readers of Cookeville Lifestyle Magazine, she encouraged them to be ambitious and chase their goals with the same fervor she has.

“Being from a small town and working around the globe (I have cases from The Bahamas, Greece, and Croatia) as a forensic examiner, my southern accent often prompts people to think of Dolly Parton. I laugh and say, When I sing, people will pay me to shut up! But Dolly and I do have one thing in common: we have chased our dreams and don’t let others stand in our way. God, no doubt, planted this tiny seed in my heart, and I followed it, nourished it, and let it grow, and God allowed it to flourish.” Dianne concluded, “It is often hard to step out in courage and do something that no one else around you has even considered. But to anyone wanting to pursue a dream, keep pressing forward, with time, diligence, persistence, and hard work, it can come true. We all have different gifts, skills, and abilities, and no one should downplay theirs because God can use them all. The world will tell you what you are lacking, but God knows that you are fully equipped for His work! Discovering your gifts and talents can bring you a very fulfilling life. I know it has for me.” 

-written by Andrew Buckner, photos by Olivia Merritt