Prior to January 1, 2000 in California, anybody could call himself or herself a "paralegal" and go into business helping the general public complete and file legal documents.  There were no educational or experience requirements, and it was a totally unregulated industry.  Such people were usually referred to as "Independent Paralegals", meaning they were in business for themselves and did not work under the supervision of an attorney.

In an effort to protect the public, the Legislature of the State of California in 1999 passed a law known as SB 1418. This law was signed by then Governor Gray Davis and became effective January 1, 2000.

Under the terms of this new law, "independent paralegals" were required  to show certain levels of education and experience, they were required to register with their local County Clerk, and they were required to post a Surety Bond with the County Clerk in the amount of $25,000.00.  Although they could still call themselves "paralegals" they were to be officially known as "Legal Document Assistants".

In 2000 the California Legislature passed AB 1761. This law dictates that only a "paralegal" working under the direct supervision of a member of the State Bar of California can call themselves a "paralegal".  The rest of us who used to call ourselves "independent paralegals" can no longer use the term and can be fined or imprisoned for doing so.  This bill was also signed by Governor Davis and became effective January 1, 2001.

Before performing any work or service for a customer we are now required to sign a contract with you, a contract designed and approved by the California Department of Consumer Affairs. This contract describes your rights and the "Legal Document Assistant's" duties and responsibilities.

FOR YOUR OWN PROTECTION, make sure that your "Legal Document Assistant" is in full compliance with the law, that he/she is Registered and Bonded and using the contract prescribed by the State of California Department of Consumer Affairs. I WOULD FURTHER RECOMMEND you choose a
Legal Document Assistant who is a member of CALDA, the
CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF LEGAL DOCUMENT ASSISTANTS, whose members subscribe to and adhere to a strict Code of Ethics.