LDA FAQ’S

Q: What is a legal document assistant (LDA)?

A: A legal document assistant, or LDA, is an experienced professional who is authorized under California law to prepare legal documents for consumers at the direction of the client. An LDA is not an attorney and cannot provide legal advice or represent a client in court. The legal document assistant fills a critical role in our judicial system, enabling individuals to represent themselves in their own legal matters, with the help of a qualified professional legal document preparer to ensure their papers are properly prepared, filed and served. Legal document assistants are required by law to be registered and file a bond of $25,000 in the county where they have their principal place of business.

Q: What is the benefit of using a legal document assistant?

A: By helping you effectively represent yourself, a legal document assistant allows you to bypass the often unnecessary expense and hassle of hiring of an attorney, which can cost 50-80% more than a legal document assistant. A legal document provider also offers a non-adversarial environment in which to settle undisputed legal matters.

Q: Should I see an attorney or a legal document assistant?

A: If you do not know your legal rights in a situation, you should see an attorney; but not all legal matters require an attorney. If you have already decided on a course of action and the matter is undisputed, a legal document assistant is an efficient and affordable alternative to hiring a lawyer.