As legal fees continue to skyrocket, more and more consumers are seeking low cost, but lawful alternatives for their simple legal matters that do not require the use of an attorney.
By doing a lot of the paperwork themselves, consumers are finding that they can save thousands of dollars in legal fees. But, navigating through the mountain of paperwork required by the legal system can be daunting for many people.
Fortunately, a profession known as Legal Document Assistants offer a safe and lawful alternative to simple legal matters, including living trusts, divorce and other family law issues, probate, unlawful detainers, name changes, and bankruptcy to name a few.
Legal Document Assistants were once commonly known as Independent Paralegals. However, on January 1, 2000, Business and Professions Code Section 6400 was enacted legitimizing and defining this new profession. Business and Professions Code section 6450 redefined “paralegal” to mean only those who work for and are supervised by attorneys.
It’s important to understand the difference between an LDA, a paralegal and an attorney: Both Legal Document Assistants and paralegals must qualify by education and/or legal training, however, Legal Document Assistants are required by law to be bonded and registered in the county in which they have their principal place of business. LDAs are authorized to prepare legal documents for a client, but only at the direction of the client. In other words, the LDA is there to assist the “self-help&” client handle their own legal matters without the cost of an attorney. A Legal Document Assistant is NOT a lawyer. By law, they cannot give legal advice or represent you in the courts in any manner.
A Paralegal works under the supervision of an attorney only, and is also prohibited from practicing law or giving legal advice.
Only an attorney can practice law: Only they can give legal advice and represent people in court. Attorneys usually hire paralegals and legal assistants to prepare their clients documents.How to find a Legal Document Assistant For a list of registered LDAs in your county, contact the County Clerk.
