What Is a Legal Document Assistant (LDA)?

Navigating legal paperwork can be overwhelming — but it doesn't have to be. A Legal Document Assistant (LDA) is a registered professional who helps individuals prepare and process legal documents without the high cost of hiring an attorney.

Whether you're filing for divorce, creating a living trust, transferring real estate, or starting a business, an LDA can guide you through the paperwork with efficiency, accuracy, and affordability.

 
What Does an LDA Do?

An LDA is authorized to assist with the preparation of legal documents under a client’s direction. While LDAs are not attorneys and cannot offer legal advice, they are highly knowledgeable in legal forms and procedures and can ensure that your documents are properly completed and filed.

Common services provided by LDAs include:

Preparing and filing real estate documents, such as deeds or transfer of ownership

Preparing living trusts, wills, and powers of attorney

Drafting business formation documents for LLCs and corporations

Handling probate and estate planning forms

Preparing small claims, name changes, and other court documents
 

Why Choose an LDA?

Legal Document Assistants are a great option for people who want help with legal paperwork but do not need legal advice or representation. Here’s why more Californians are turning to LDAs:

Affordable: LDAs provide a lower-cost alternative to attorney fees.
Efficient: They’re trained to handle the paperwork quickly and correctly.
Knowledgeable: LDAs understand the ins and outs of California’s legal forms and filing procedures.
Trustworthy: LDAs are registered and bonded through the county in which they operate.
 

LDAs in California

In California, LDAs are governed by Business and Professions Code §§ 6400–6415. To work as an LDA, a person must:

Be registered and bonded with the county clerk
Meet education or experience requirements
Follow specific guidelines and disclosures to protect the consumer
LDAs work directly with the public, empowering clients to manage their legal matters without navigating complex systems alone.

 
How Shanea O'Connor Services, Inc. Can Help
At Shanea O'Connor Services, Inc., we’re proud to be a registered Legal Document Assistant service in California. We specialize in preparing real estate documents, estate planning forms, and other legal paperwork — helping you complete each step accurately and with confidence.

We’re here to simplify the process, reduce your stress, and save you time and money. Whether you need help preparing a deed, creating a trust, or organizing court documents, we’re ready to support you every step of the way.

Let’s make legal paperwork easier — together!