What is a Legal Document Assistant (LDA)?
Through formal education, training, and experience a LEGAL DOCUMENT ASSISTANT (LDA) is a highly trained professional who has the knowledge and expertise that is needed to assist others to help themselves through the legal system.
An LDA is authorized under California law to assist with the preparation of court documents for those who represent themselves in court (commonly known as "self-litigants and/or "pro pers"). LDAs cannot give legal advice. They prepare court documents under their client's specific direction; file court documents; and provide affordable self-help legal services and information, without the cost of hiring an attorney.
LDAs were commonly known as "Independent Paralegals." The California legislature enacted a statute governing the use of the terms paralegal and legal assistant. (Chapter 5.6 Paralegals 6450 of the Business and Professions Code). This new law became effective January 1, 2001. The title "Legal Document Assistant" now falls under new California law and authorizes LDAs to independently assist the public with legal paperwork and they are officially known as "Legal Document Assistants."
LDAs have the same educational background and experience as a paralegal (legal professionals employed by attorneys) and are required by law to be registered and bonded in the county in which he/she has his/her principle place of business. LDAs are expected to work within high ethical standards while dealing with the public. If a person is acting as an LDA but is not registered and bonded, they are operating illegally in California.
