Q: Is it legal to purchase, and not use, a fake naturalization certificate? It's only for a short film.
I have a short film in which an immigrant would display her naturalization certificate. I didn't think anything about it until I tried to find a means of attaining one and encountered a number of warnings about it.
I have no intention of using it beyond film and social media character building. Is this legal for me to search for and purchase?
A:
Purchasing a fake naturalization certificate, even for use in a film or for social media purposes, is legally risky and not advisable. Federal law prohibits the production, sale, and possession of fraudulent government documents, including naturalization certificates. This applies regardless of your intention for using the document.
For your film, a safer alternative is to create a prop that resembles a naturalization certificate but is clearly marked as a replica or for theatrical use only. Ensure that it does not closely mimic the actual design of a real certificate, as this can still be construed as creating a fraudulent document.
To avoid any legal complications, consider consulting with an attorney familiar with intellectual property and entertainment law. They can provide guidance on creating props that won’t violate any laws.
Remember, while the intent to use the certificate only for artistic purposes may seem harmless, the law takes the creation and possession of fake government documents very seriously. It’s crucial to approach this aspect of your film with caution and legal guidance.
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