Frequently Asked Questions — Using a Legal Document Assistant
- I need the Commando’s help. How do I get started?
- Can you help me file and serve my papers?
- What is the difference between the documents I get from you and those prepared by an attorney?
- What is a Legal Document Assistant (LDA)?
- What is the difference between a Paralegal
and an LDA?
I need the Commando’s help. How do I get started?
Once you’ve decided to handle your own legal matter with Construction Commando’s assistance, we will have you sign a contract and, for most services, complete a questionnaire. We use the Legal Document Assistant (LDA) contract required under California law, which was written by the Department of Consumer Affairs, and is for your protection. The questionnaire is specific to the type of document or service you are requesting, and contains a series of questions that will enable us to accurately and completely prepare your legal document (e.g. property address, scope of work, dates, contract amounts, etc.). You will receive a draft of your completed legal document, and our fees include up to two revisions at no additional charge.
Can you help me file and serve my papers?
Yes! Our attorney service can economically file and serve documents anywhere in California. For rush documents, fax filing is available for an additional fee. Courier services and digital document management are also offered.
What is the difference between the documents I get from you and those prepared by an attorney?
The short answer is: Nothing! Construction Commando utilizes the latest legal technology, including the same software packages used in most law firms.
Now for the longer answer: When you retain the services of an LDA, you are essentially acting as your own attorney; you must know what you want your documents to say. We cannot draft legal arguments for you or give you specific legal advice. We have many self-help legal reference materials available in our office to guide you. If you still have questions, we are happy to refer you to an attorney.
What is a Legal Document Assistant (LDA)?
A Legal Document Assistant, or LDA, is an experienced professional who is authorized under California law to prepare legal documents for consumers at the direction of the client. An LDA is not an attorney and cannot provide legal advice or represent a client in court. The Legal Document Assistant fills a critical role in our judicial system, enabling individuals to represent themselves in their own legal matters, with the help of a qualified professional legal document preparer to ensure their papers are properly prepared, filed and served.
LDAs are required by law to be registered and file a bond of $25,000 in the county where they have their principal place of business. R.S. Ervine, Inc. DBA Construction Commando is bonded and registered in San Diego and San Luis Obispo Counties.
What is the difference between a Paralegal and an LDA?
LDAs are sometimes incorrectly referred to as “Independent Paralegals.” California law restricts the term “Paralegal” to those who are employed by an attorney, and working directly under that attorney’s supervision. However, many LDAs have a paralegal background, and some, including Suzanne Ervine, the Commando, provide paralegal services to attorneys while also offering LDA services to consumers.
For more information, please see California Business & Professions Code § 6400 and § 6450, or visit the Alliance of Legal Document Assistant Professionals.
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