One of the questions our customers ask us more often is “What is your title/profession?” Well, we all are notary public, because we prepare so many documents that require notarization that is inevitable. Some of us are also Paralegals, meaning they completed some studies and obtained a certificate from the College they selected.
But one thing we all are: LDAs, or Legal Document Assistants.
What is a Legal Document Assistant?
Back in the days, we were formerly known as Paralegals, or Independent Paralegals. As of January 2000, the profession of assisting customers in the preparation of legal documents has its own California code, and it’s now a recognized and vital part of the legal landscape in our State and many other States.
As Legal Document Assistant we are required to register with the county in which we do business and carry a bond of at least $25,000, as well as meet requirements for educational and/or practical experience, all for your protection, the customer. Legal Document Assistants are strictly prohibited from giving legal advice in its broader meaning of the word nor inform you of your legal rights – that’s why we have attorneys we refer our customers to when they actually do need legal advice.
However, we have been around since the 90’s so the great majority of people who comes through our doors are well aware we cannot give legal advice, and has decided before stopping by which service they need.
What Does An LDA Do?
An LDA is an experienced professional who is authorized to prepare legal documents for a customer, but only at the direction of the customer. In other words, an LDA is there to assist “self-help” customers handle their own legal matters without the cost of an attorney.
Since even the best legal, self-help books can be confusing and overwhelming. Your LDA can provide invaluable assistance with routine legal tasks, such as typing and filing the paperwork for uncontested divorces, bankruptcies, wills, and many other types of legal documents.
Again, because an LDA is forbidden to practice law of any sort, they cannot make suggestions as to what the client needs done for a particular matter, or what forms that the client must file with the state or the other party to the action.
A Legal Document Assistant is an invaluable resource for your legal matters. Many legal documents are confusing; incorrectly filled out forms will delay your case, possibly for a long time. An experienced LDA can help you avoid the pitfalls and also make sure every important detail on a form is accounted for. This alone makes them the best choice for your self-help legal endeavors.
Courtesy of The Justice People in Nipomo, serving Santa Maria and San Luis Obispo, now listed in The Document People directory of legal document assistants. Visit our stores in Los Angeles County (Woodland Hills, Santa Monica, San Fernando, Van Nuys, Glendale,), Orange County (Anaheim, Irvine) San Diego County (Oceanside) and the Central Coast, as “The Justice People”, covering the Nipomo, Santa Maria, San Luis Obispo areas.
The information contained in this blog – including information of a legal nature – is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter.
