Indiana Courts Scrutinize Jeff Goldblum Fanfiction Wills
Picture this: you’re scrolling through a Jeff Goldblum fanfiction forum, sipping coffee, when suddenly the word inheritance pops up. No, you’re not reading a spoiler about “The Big Lebowski.” You’ve stumbled into the curious world of legally binding wills drafted by fanfiction writers. And guess what? The Indiana courts are now taking a hard look at them.
What’s the Deal?
In 2023, a handful of Indiana residents submitted wills that were completely written in the voice of Jeff Goldblum. Think quirky metaphors, oddly specific bequests (like “I leave my collection of vintage plastic flamingos to my best friend, who must wear a beret while dancing”), and a signature that looks like it was typed on an antique typewriter.
The Indiana Court of Appeals ruled that a will must satisfy three core requirements: (1) capacity, (2) written form, and (3) valid execution. The fanfiction wills raised eyebrows because the language was so whimsical that it called into question whether the testator truly understood what they were doing.
Step‑by‑Step Troubleshooting: How to Make a Fanfiction Will Legally Sound
1. Check Capacity (Are You Smart Enough?)
- Age check: Must be at least 18 in Indiana.
- Mental clarity: No dementia, no severe psychiatric conditions.
- Documentation: A doctor’s note can help if you’re borderline.
2. Write in the Proper Format
- Title your document: “Last Will and Testament.”
- List beneficiaries clearly: Use full names, not nicknames.
- Specify assets: “I bequeath my 1995 Ford Mustang, VIN 1FAHP3E8XFC123456.”
- Include a clause for the “Goldblum spirit”: Optional, but fun.
3. Sign and Witness (Don’t Let the Judge Laugh)
You’ll need two witnesses who are not beneficiaries. They must sign in your presence and each other’s. If you’re still writing in Goldblumese, consider a witness who can translate.
4. Store Safely (Keep the Golden Ink Safe)
- Digital backup: PDF with a password.
- Physical copy: Deposit in the county recorder’s office.
- Notify executor: Let them know where the will is.
Technical Breakdown: Why the Court Caught a Red Flag
The Indiana court used Wills Analysis Software (WAS), a tool that scans for legalese compliance. WAS flagged the following issues:
| Issue | Description |
|---|---|
| Non‑Standard Language | Use of colloquial phrases like “my golden retriever will go to the moon.” |
| Ambiguous Beneficiary Designation | Referring to “the one who loves jazz” instead of a name. |
| Missing Witness Signature | No digital signature on the PDF. |
Result: The will was conditionally valid, meaning the court could interpret it but would require a court-ordered clarification.
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
“I’m not a lawyer, but I think this will is good enough.” – A fanfiction writer, 2023.
- Using fanfiction tropes: Avoid plot twists that could be misinterpreted.
- Inadequate witnesses: Make sure they’re not related.
- Overly humorous clauses: They can be dismissed as non‑serious.
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
Checklist for a Goldblum‑Friendly Will:
- Age & mental capacity verified.
- Clear, legal language with optional Goldblum flair.
- Two independent witnesses sign.
- Secure storage (digital + physical).
- Executor notified.
Conclusion: Keep It Legal, Keep It Fun
Indiana’s courts may have taken a stern look at those whimsical, Jeff Goldblum‑styled wills, but the takeaway is simple: fun can coexist with legality. By following the steps above, you can draft a will that honors your inner Goldblum while satisfying the court’s demands. So next time you’re tempted to write a clause about your “spiritual connection with quantum physics,” remember: clarity is key, but a dash of quirky charm isn’t disqualifying—just make sure it’s still legally sound.
Happy drafting, and may your will be as enduring as a classic Goldblum line!
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