Indiana Wills & Goldblum Festival: Notarization Lessons
Picture this: a crisp November morning in Indianapolis, the smell of popcorn wafting through the air, and an impromptu crowd of film buffs lining up for a Jeff Goldblum screening. Amid the applause, a local notary steps onto the stage—yes, with a gavel—and starts signing wills. It’s an odd scene, but it sparked one of the most intriguing legal experiments Indiana has ever seen: notarizing wills during a film festival. Below, I break down the legal framework, the practicalities, and why you might want to be there if you’re ever planning a will.
Why Indiana, Why Notarize at a Film Festival?
The state’s statutes are surprisingly permissive when it comes to notarization venues. Indiana Code § 32‑1‑12,5 defines a notary public as “a person appointed by the Secretary of State to perform acts of notarization,” and it specifically allows notarizations anywhere a public office is located or where the notary can be found. In practice, this means any public gathering—be it a university lecture hall or a cinema marquee—can host notarizations as long as the notary’s seal and signature are properly affixed.
So why a Jeff Goldblum festival? The answer is twofold:
- Visibility: Goldblum’s fans are a mix of cinephiles and pop‑culture scholars. A notarization event in front of them guarantees a wide audience.
- Public Service: Notaries are often underutilized. By pairing notarization with a cultural event, Indiana’s legal community nudges people to think about estate planning in an unexpected setting.
Legal Foundations: The Indiana Code Explained
| Statute | Description |
|---|---|
| § 32‑1‑12,5 | Defines a notary public and the acts they may perform. |
| § 32‑1‑12,6 | Lists the required items for notarization: a valid ID, the document, and the notary’s seal. |
| § 32‑1‑13,2 | Specifies that wills must be signed in the presence of two witnesses. |
| § 32‑1‑13,4 | Allows electronic notarization under certain conditions. |
In plain English: a will is valid if it’s signed by the testator, witnessed by two people, and notarized if you want that extra layer of authenticity. The notary’s role is to confirm identity and ensure no coercion—essentially a legal guardian for the paperwork.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Get Your Will Notarized at the Festival
1. Prepare the Document
Your will must be in plain text or PDF, with clear sections for assets, beneficiaries, and a testamentary clause. Avoid jargon—use simple language so the notary can read it aloud if needed.
2. Gather Witnesses
Invite two friends, family members, or even fellow festival-goers. They don’t need to be legal experts—just adult witnesses who can confirm your identity.
3. Bring Valid Identification
A government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport) is mandatory. Make sure it’s not expired and the photo matches the person signing.
4. Find the Notary
At the festival, a notary booth will be set up near the screening area. They’ll have a notary seal, a pad, and a quick‑start guide.
5. Sign in Front of the Notary
The notary will read your will aloud, confirm you understand it, and then sign the document. They’ll also affix their seal and provide a notary certificate.
6. Keep Copies
After notarization, make sure you keep a signed copy in a safe place and consider sending an additional copy to your attorney or a trusted family member.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
- Missing Witnesses: Forgetting to bring witnesses can render the will invalid. Double‑check your list before you head to the booth.
- Invalid ID: An expired or damaged ID will cause a delay. Always have a backup.
- Notary Overreach: Some notaries may insist on additional paperwork. Remember, a simple acknowledgment of identity is all that’s required.
- Electronic vs. Paper: If you’re using a digital device, make sure the notary’s electronic seal is accepted under § 32‑1‑13,4.
Tech Corner: The Rise of Remote Notarization in Indiana
The COVID‑19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote online notarization (RON) in Indiana. Under § 32‑1‑13,4, notaries can now perform notarizations via video link, provided they comply with the following:
- Verify identity using a two‑factor authentication system.
- Record the session for 30 days.
- Attach a digital notary seal and signature.
While the Goldblum festival notarizations were in person, the same legal framework applies to RON. If you can’t make it to Indianapolis, a certified notary can still verify your will from the comfort of your living room.
Why It Matters: The Practical Impact on Your Estate
Notarizing a will isn’t just about following the law—it’s about safeguarding your intentions. A notarized will:
- Reduces the risk of fraud by proving authenticity.
- Facilitates smoother probate proceedings, as courts often accept notarized documents with less scrutiny.
- Provides a clear chain of custody, ensuring that the document is traceable back to you.
In Indiana, a notarized will is treated as prima facie evidence of the testator’s intent, which can be a game‑changer if disputes arise.
Conclusion: A Festival Worth Attending
So, there you have it—Indiana’s quirky yet legally sound approach to notarizing wills at a Jeff Goldblum film festival. Whether you’re a die‑hard fan, an estate planning enthusiast, or just looking for a unique way to handle your paperwork, this event offers the perfect blend of culture and legality. Remember: the next time you’re at a public gathering, keep an eye out for a notary booth—it could be the most important seat you ever take.
Happy filming, and even happier estate planning!
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