In addition to following along with the Script for Live Notarization Calls, anybody notarizing Estate Plans for Florida individuals is required to recite from with the script below.

Florida Estate Planning Script:

Each of these must be asked by the online notary public in substantially the following form (in accordance with Fla. Stat. §117.285):

1. Are you currently married? If so, name your spouse.

2. Please state the names of anyone who assisted you in accessing this video conference today.

3. Please state the names of anyone who assisted you in preparing the documents you are signing today.

4. Where are you currently located?

5. Who is in the room with you?

The act of witnessing an electronic signature through the witness's presence by audio-video communication technology is valid only if, during the audio-video communication, the principal provides verbal answers to all of the questions above.

A witness remote from the principal and appearing through audio-video communication technology must verbally confirm that he or she is a resident of and physically located within the United States or a territory of the United States at the time of witnessing.

Best Practices for Notaries notarizing Florida Estate Plans

1. Document all disclosures: If signers volunteer information (e.g., "My son helped me access this meeting"), note it in the journal.

2. No legal advice: Never ask questions about document content unless instructed by the supervising attorney.

3. Vulnerable adults: If the signer appears confused or pressured, pause the notarization and consult Florida’s guidelines on incapacity (Fla. Stat. §415.102). Vulnerable adults cannot use RON for witnessed documents; physical witnesses are required if cognitive impairment is suspected

Updated on: 03/11/2025