Notarization is being used more and more to lend trust and authenticity to a variety of transactions, as evidenced by a major “Glee Concert Tour Giveaway,” which required contest finalists to present a notarized eligibility affidavit to claim their prize.
Sponsored by AOL, the “Glee Concert Tour Giveaway” offered diehard fans of the FOX-TV series a chance to win VIP tickets to see the cast in a live concert event. In order to win, contestants were asked to submit a single sentence explaining what they’d be willing to do to see the show. Chosen finalists were then required to submit a notarized eligibility and liability affidavit to claim their grand prize, valued at $295.
Cherie Carlton, Lead Paralegal, AOL Public Policy and Regulatory, says that requiring prize winners to sign and notarize an affidavit or release is an important “standard practice in the promotions industry,” as it ensures that the winner meets certain eligibility requirements, such as age or legal U.S. residency.