What Is a Legal Document Assistant (LDA) in California? (San Francisco Guide)

If you’re handling legal paperwork without an attorney, you may have heard the term Legal Document Assistant (LDA) — but many Californians aren’t sure what that actually means.

In California, Legal Document Assistants are state-authorized, non-attorney professionals who help self-represented individuals prepare legal documents at the client’s direction.

This role is governed by California law and regulated at the county level to protect the public.

📌 What Is a Legal Document Assistant (LDA)?

A Legal Document Assistant is authorized under California Business & Professions Code §§ 6400–6415 to assist individuals who choose to represent themselves.

LDAs are commonly used by people who:

• Do not need or want full legal representation

• Already know which documents they need

• Want help preparing paperwork correctly and efficiently

LDAs must:

• Be registered and bonded with their county

• Provide written contracts to clients

• Display required consumer notices

• Avoid the unauthorized practice of law

(California Department of Consumer Affairs)

✅ What an LDA Can Do

Under California law, a Legal Document Assistant may:

• Prepare legal documents exactly as directed by the client

• Provide general procedural information (how filing works, where to file)

• Help organize, format, and complete paperwork

• Assist with document execution logistics (including notarization, when authorized separately)

Examples include:

• Estate planning document preparation (at the client’s direction)

• Real estate deed preparation

• Name change or uncontested family-law paperwork

• Probate-related forms for self-represented individuals

❌ What an LDA Cannot Do

To remain compliant, an LDA cannot:

• Give legal advice or legal opinions

• Recommend which documents a client should use

• Interpret laws or predict legal outcomes

• Tell a client what they “should” do legally

Those activities are reserved exclusively for licensed attorneys.

This distinction is critical — and enforced — to protect consumers.

(California Business and Professions Code)

📊 LDA vs. Attorney vs. Notary (Quick Clarity)

📍 Why LDAs Matter in California

California recognizes that many residents choose to represent themselves — especially in estate planning, real estate transfers, and uncontested matters.

Resources like the
Sacramento County Public Law Library
regularly publish guidance acknowledging the role of LDAs in helping self-represented litigants navigate paperwork without legal advice.

LDAs exist to bridge the gap between DIY forms and full legal representation.

🤝 How Shanea O’Connor Services, Inc. Helps

Shanea O’Connor Services, Inc. is a California-registered Legal Document Assistant in San Francisco County.

Services are provided:

• With clear written contracts

• Only at the client’s direction

• With strict adherence to California LDA regulations

• Without legal advice or legal interpretation

For clients who also need notarization, notary services are offered separately and in full compliance with the California Secretary of State notary rules.

🧠 Key Takeaway

If you already know what documents you need — and you want help preparing them accurately and professionally — a Legal Document Assistant may be an appropriate option.

If you need legal advice, document selection, or strategy, a licensed attorney is the right resource.

Legal Document Assistant Disclosure:
Shanea O’Connor Services, Inc. is not an attorney and cannot provide legal advice. Legal Document Assistant services are provided only at the direction of the client pursuant to California Business & Professions Code §§ 6400–6415. Clients may consult an attorney at any time.

📘 AUTHORITATIVE SOURCES (For Linking & Verification)

1. California Business & Professions Code §§ 6400–6415
   (Legal Document Assistant statutes)

2. California Department of Consumer Affairs – Legal Document Assistants
   Consumer-facing explanation of LDAs and required disclosures

3. Sacramento County Public Law Library – Self-Help & Legal Forms
   Educational material acknowledging non-attorney document preparation

4. County Clerk / Recorder (San Francisco)
   LDA registration and bonding requirements