What is the difference between a legal document assistant (LDA) and a paralegal?

Legal document assistants are sometimes incorrectly referred to as “independent paralegals.” California law restricts the term “paralegal” to those who are employed by an attorney. Paralegal services may only be provided to a licensed attorney who directs the work and compensates the paralegal; and it is illegal for a paralegal to advertise to the general public, or to provide services and accept compensation from anyone who is not an active member of the California State Bar. A registered and bonded LDA is specifically authorized to provide legal information, resources and document preparation services to any consumer who is handling his or her own legal matter. Unlike LDAs, paralegals are not required to be registered or licensed by any governmental authority, and do not post a bond for the consumer’s protection (because they are not permitted to work for consumers). Many LDAs have a paralegal background, and some provide paralegal services to attorneys while also providing LDA ...  more