A Legal Document Assistant (LDA) is a non-lawyer professional in California authorized to prepare legal documents for consumers at their specific direction. Unlike traditional paralegals who must work under the direct supervision of an attorney, an LDA can offer their services directly to the public.

Here is a breakdown of what an LDA can and cannot do:

What an LDA Can Do

• Prepare Legal Forms: Assist with completing, filing, and serving legal documents (such as divorce papers, custody agreements, wills, trusts, deeds, and business entity formations).

• Provide Legal Materials: Supply users with attorney-approved legal materials, reference books, and templates to help them make informed choices.

• File and Serve Documents: File the completed documents with the appropriate court clerk and arrange for legal service of process on other parties.

Important Restrictions

• No Legal Advice: LDAs cannot give legal advice, recommend specific legal strategies, or tell you which forms are best for your situation.

• No Court Representation: They cannot represent clients in a courtroom or speak on their behalf in front of a judge.

In short, an LDA acts as a meticulous guide to help self-represented individuals navigate the complex paperwork and administrative steps of the legal system without the high cost of hiring an attorney.