LEGAL DOCUMENT ASSISTANT

What is a Legal Document Assistant (LDA)?

A Legal Document Assistant (LDA) is a registered and bonded professional authorized under California law to prepare legal documents at the direction of a client. LDAs assist individuals who choose to represent themselves—often referred to as “self-represented” or “pro per” litigants—by providing document preparation and procedural support.​The LDA profession was formally established in California through Senate Bill 1418, effective January 1, 2000, and is governed by California Business and Professions Code §§6400–6415.​At its core, an LDA supports individuals handling their own legal matters by helping ensure that documents are properly prepared, organized, and filed—without the cost of hiring an attorney.​

How Morales & Morales Supports You

At Morales & Morales, we work with self-represented individuals at every stage of their case—from initial filings through advanced litigation preparation.​Our role is to assist you with the accurate preparation, organization, and filing of your legal documents, always based on your direction. This includes helping ensure your paperwork is properly formatted, complete, and aligned with applicable court rules and procedures.​For clients navigating more complex or active cases, our approach—sometimes referred to as a “Trial LDA” model—focuses on providing structured document support for matters approaching hearing or trial. This may include organizing exhibit packets, preparing declarations, assembling subpoenas, and compiling trial-ready document sets.​This model is not a separate legal designation, but a refined service approach that remains fully compliant with California Business and Professions Code §§6400–6415. At all times, we adhere strictly to Unauthorized Practice of Law (UPL) restrictions.