What is a Legal Document Assistant?

A Legal Document Assistant (LDA) is a California-regulated non-attorney authorized under Business & Professions Code §6400 to prepare legal documents directly for the public. LDAs must be registered with their county clerk, bonded with a $25,000 bond, and meet specific education and experience requirements. Unlike paralegals, LDAs work directly with consumers without attorney supervision. TrustPoint is Registered LDA #268 in Santa Clara County.

The key difference is who they serve. A paralegal works exclusively under an attorney's supervision and cannot legally provide services directly to the public. A Legal Document Assistant (LDA) works directly with consumers who are representing themselves. California Business & Professions Code §6450 prohibits paralegals from independently serving consumers — only LDAs can lawfully prepare legal documents directly for members of the public.

No. California law strictly prohibits Legal Document Assistants from providing legal advice, opinions, recommendations, or strategies. LDAs cannot tell you which forms to file, how to answer specific questions, or which legal course of action to take. LDAs can only prepare documents at your direction — meaning you decide what you want done, and we prepare the paperwork accordingly. If you need legal advice, we can refer you to a licensed attorney.

LDAs charge flat fees for document preparation, while attorneys typically charge hourly rates of $300–$500 per hour. Because LDAs only prepare documents (not legal strategy), our overhead is significantly lower. Clients typically save 60–80% compared to attorney fees for routine matters like uncontested divorce, living trusts, LLC formation, probate, and name changes. TrustPoint's flat-fee pricing means no surprise bills.

Yes. TrustPoint Disability & Legal Services LLC is Registered Legal Document Assistant #268 in Santa Clara County, California. We are bonded with the required $25,000 surety bond and in full compliance with California Business & Professions Code §6400-6415. Our LDA identification is displayed on every document we prepare, as required by state law.

California LDAs are authorized to prepare legal documents for: uncontested divorce, living trusts and wills, probate filings, LLC and business formation, name changes, deeds and property transfers, power of attorney, bankruptcy petitions (as Bankruptcy Petition Preparers), civil complaints, unlawful detainer (eviction), immigration forms, and more. LDAs may also file documents with courts and serve documents at the client's direction.

Not necessarily — it depends on your case. If your matter is uncontested, routine, and procedural (like an uncontested divorce, simple living trust, or LLC formation), an LDA is often sufficient. If your case involves disputed issues, complex strategy, courtroom representation, or unclear legal rights, you should consult a licensed attorney. TrustPoint helps you understand the scope of your matter and recommends an attorney referral when appropriate.

Every California LDA is registered with the county clerk of the county where they do business. You can verify registration by: (1) asking to see the LDA's county-issued photo ID card, (2) contacting the Santa Clara County Clerk-Recorder's Office directly, or (3) searching the California Association of Legal Document Assistants (CALDA) directory. TrustPoint's LDA number is #268, registered in Santa Clara County.