Various types of paper samples were collected, and each of the samples was subjected to conditions that should produce fingerprint impressions. This was followed by processing with the E.S.D.A. to confirm that impressions had been made. Then the samples were processed for latent fingerprints by using various powders. The samples were then processed a second and third time with the E.S.D.A. Comparisons were made between the impressions recovered before and after powder processing. Six samples of commonly submitted types of paper stock were used. The study found that latent print powder processing of paper evidence has a detrimental effect on the recovery of impression evidence. This research showed that all impression evidence can be destroyed, depending on the type of paper, type of powder, or the type of impression. Conversely, E.S.D.A. processing of paper evidence does not impact significantly on latent print processing. These findings suggest that latent print processing should be conducted on paper evidence only after questioned document examinations have been conducted. 2 tables and 4 references