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<channel><title><![CDATA[(916) 750-0073 - The LDA Blog]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog]]></link><description><![CDATA[The LDA Blog]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 20:51:53 -0700</pubDate><generator>Weebly</generator><item><title><![CDATA[What “Fax Filing Agency” Really Means — And How Prepared Legal Corp. Handles Sacramento Court Filings]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/what-fax-filing-agency-really-means-and-how-prepared-legal-corp-handles-sacramento-court-filings]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/what-fax-filing-agency-really-means-and-how-prepared-legal-corp-handles-sacramento-court-filings#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:27:39 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><category><![CDATA[Small Biz Resources]]></category><category><![CDATA[Trends & Updates]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/what-fax-filing-agency-really-means-and-how-prepared-legal-corp-handles-sacramento-court-filings</guid><description><![CDATA[When people hear &ldquo;Fax Filing Agency,&rdquo; they often imagine a special court-only fax line &mdash; or that with the press of a button, we can make your documents instantly appear on the clerk&rsquo;s desk. If only.In reality, there is nothing mysterious about it. It is procedural. What we actually have is a deep understanding of the California Rules of Court, a reliable printer, and very comfortable courthouse walking shoes.&ldquo;Fax Filing Agency&rdquo; is a technical term rooted in ol [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">When people hear &ldquo;<strong><a href="https://courts.ca.gov/cms/rules/index/two/rule2_303" target="_blank">Fax Filing Agency</a></strong>,&rdquo; they often imagine a special court-only fax line &mdash; or that with the press of a button, we can make your documents instantly appear on the clerk&rsquo;s desk. <em>If only.</em><br /><br />In reality, there is nothing mysterious about it. It is procedural. What we actually have is a deep understanding of the California Rules of Court, a reliable printer, and very comfortable courthouse walking shoes.<br /><br />&ldquo;Fax Filing Agency&rdquo; is a technical term rooted in older court transmission rules, and it carries specific obligations under <a href="https://courts.ca.gov/cms/rules/index/two/rule2_303" target="_blank">California Rules of Court, Rule 2.303</a>. It does not mean privileged court access, electronic shortcuts, or special filing authority.<br /><br />As a Sacramento-based, full-service legal document preparation boutique specializing in family law, Prepared Legal Corp. understands the nuances of Sacramento court filing mechanics &mdash; particularly within the Family Law Department at the William R. Ridgeway Family Relations Courthouse.<br /><br />I&rsquo;m writing this because even after more than 10 years in business, and even longer as a legal professional, I still receive daily calls from attorneys and even other court courier services who are unclear about what a fax filing agency actually is.<br /><br /><em>The terminology is outdated. The rules are not.<br /></em><br />As demand grew for knowledgeable, procedurally compliant filing support, we expanded this service to serve both attorneys and self-represented litigants. Professionals and pro se parties alike were encountering delays, rejections, and confusion navigating Sacramento&rsquo;s unique family law filing structure.<br /><br />There was a clear need for a logistics-focused, rules-driven filing partner who understands how Sacramento Family Court actually operates.<br /><br />Transparency matters to us. So here&rsquo;s what that term really means.</div>  <div><div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div> <hr class="styled-hr" style="width:100%;"></hr> <div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><font size="5">Need clarity?</font></strong><br />Schedule a one-on-one filing procedure session with our office.</div>  <div style="text-align:center;"><div style="height: 5px; overflow: hidden;"></div> <a class="wsite-button wsite-button-small wsite-button-normal" href="https://calendly.com/preparedlegal/fax-filing-filing-procedure-overview-1-1-session" target="_blank"> <span class="wsite-button-inner">Schedule a Fax Filing Filing (1:1 Session)</span> </a> <div style="height: 5px; overflow: hidden;"></div></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div><div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div> <hr class="styled-hr" style="width:100%;"></hr> <div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><font size="4"><strong>DON'T CONFUSE THE NAME WITH THE RULE</strong><br /></font>The phrase &ldquo;fax filing agency&rdquo; originated when documents were transmitted through analog fax machines connected to telephone lines.<br /><br />Today, fax transmissions are typically electronic, but the governing framework remains in place under California Rules of Court, Rules 2.301&ndash;2.306.<br /><br />Under Rule 2.301(7), a fax filing agency is defined simply as:<br /><em>An entity that receives documents by fax for processing and filing with the court.<br /></em><br />That is the entire definition.<ul><li>It does not mean special access to the court.</li><li>It does not create priority filing status.</li><li>It does not authorize electronic filing privileges.</li></ul><br />It is a procedural designation &mdash; nothing more<br /><br /><font size="4"><strong>WHAT A FAX FILING AGENCY IS REQUIRED TO DO</strong><br /></font>Under California Rules of Court, Rule 2.303(b)(2), a fax filing agency must:<br /><em>&ldquo;Physically transport the document to the court.&rdquo;</em><br /><br />That is the core obligation.<br /><br />Even today, most Sacramento Family Law filings require physical delivery to the courthouse unless specifically permitted otherwise. A fax filing agency receives the transmitted document and ensures it is delivered to the court in compliance with procedural rules.<br /><br />There is no electronic shortcut built into the designation.<br /><br /><strong><font size="4">WHAT THE CERTIFICATION MEANS &mdash; AND WHAT IT DOES NOT</font></strong><br />Rule 2.303(e) provides that by filing a document, a fax filing agency certifies:<ul><li>It complied with the rules in that chapter; and</li><li>The document filed is the full and unaltered fax-produced document received.</li><li>This certification is limited in scope.</li></ul><br />It does not mean the agency:<ul><li>Reviews the legal sufficiency of the document</li><li>Edits formatting</li><li>Revises content</li><li>Corrects legal arguments</li><li>Modifies pleadings</li></ul><br />A fax filing agency is <u>prohibited from altering the document received</u>. It must file the document exactly as transmitted.<br /><br />Responsibility for legal accuracy and compliance with substantive requirements remains with the filing party or their attorney.<br /><br /><font size="4"><strong>FORMATTING RULES STILL APPLY</strong><br /></font>Even though a fax filing agency does not modify documents, California courts require filings to comply with formatting standards under California Rules of Court, Rules 2.100&ndash;2.119.<br /><br />Generally, filed papers must include:<ul><li>8.5 x 11 inch paper</li><li>12-point font (Courier, Times New Roman, or Arial)</li><li>One-sided printing if not e-filed</li><li>1.5 line spacing</li><li>Proper caption format</li><li>Consecutively numbered pages</li><li>Required, legible signatures</li></ul><br />If a document does not comply, the clerk may reject it. <strong><u>The filing agency does not reformat documents to correct noncompliance.</u></strong><br /><br /><strong><font size="4">SACRAMENTO FAMILY LAW DEPARTMENT REMAINS PHYSICAL FILINGS</font></strong><br />Family Law matters in Sacramento County are handled at the William R. Ridgeway Family Relations Courthouse.<br /><br />Unlike many civil departments in other counties, Sacramento Family Law does not operate under a universal e-filing system for standard dissolution, custody, or support matters.<br /><br />Most pleadings require:<ul><li><font size="3"><strong>In-Person Window Filing</strong> (Many documents are filed and returned the same day.)</font></li><li><font size="3"><strong>Drop Box Submission</strong> (Documents are assigned the filing date of submission and returned several days later and sometimes weeks.)</font></li><li><font size="3"><strong>Mail Filing</strong> (Documents are mailed to the Clerk at 3341 Power Inn Road, Sacramento, CA 95826, and processed upon receipt.)</font></li></ul> This makes accurate procedural handling essential.<br /><br /><strong><font size="4">E-DELIVERY IS NOT E-FILING (EVEN FOR DVROs)<br /></font></strong><font size="3">Sacramento County provides a limited electronic submission method called <strong>eDelivery</strong> through its <a href="https://services.saccourt.ca.gov/PublicCaseAccess/Account/LogOn?ReturnUrl=%2fPublicCaseAccess%2fRestrainingOrder%2fFiling" target="_blank">Public Case Access System</a>, which allows certain filings to be submitted online instead of in person. However, this <strong>is not the same</strong> as the full electronic filing system used in other case types &mdash; and it does not replace the court&rsquo;s formatting, signature, or review requirements.<br /></font><br /><font size="3">For most family law pleadings, including standard dissolution and custody matters, physical filing at the courthouse remains the norm.<br /></font><br /><font size="3">Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVROs) are a notable exception in that Sacramento Superior Court permits them to be submitted through the eDelivery system, which can help save a trip to the courthouse when filing DVRO and related restraining order paperwork. Submissions must be completed by the court&rsquo;s deadlines to be considered for same-day review.</font><br /><font size="3">Nevertheless:</font><ul><li><font size="3"><strong>eDelivery is not true e-filing</strong> &mdash; it does not create the same automated review or acceptance process as certified e-filing through an EFSP.</font></li><li><font size="3"><strong>Original signature and formatting requirements still apply</strong>, and the court clerk still reviews and subsequently processes the submission no differently than a physical delivery.</font></li><li><strong><font size="3">The practitioner or litigant must understand when eDelivery is available and when traditional filing remains required.</font></strong></li></ul> <font size="3">In other words, while the court allows online submission of DVRO forms via eDelivery, the broader family law docket remains largely paper-based and subject to standard Sacramento filing protocols<br /></font><br /><font size="4"><strong>ORIGINAL SIGNATURE ARE STILL REQUIRED</strong><br /></font>In most Sacramento Family Law matters, original handwritten signatures are required.<br /><br />While Rule 2.305(d) provides that a signature produced by fax transmission is deemed an original for purposes of the rule, the filing party must possess the actual signed document.<br /><br />Typed names or digitally generated signatures do not automatically satisfy court requirements unless expressly permitted.<br /><br />Bonding and Registration<br /><br />A business holding itself out as a fax filing agency should be properly bonded and registered in accordance with applicable county requirements, including maintaining a Professional Photocopier Bond.<br /><br />This provides accountability in the handling of court documents.<br /><br /><font size="4"><strong style="">THE PRACTICAL RELAITY</strong><br /></font>&ldquo;Fax Filing Agency&rdquo; is a procedural designation created under the California Rules of Court.<ul><li>It does not create special authority.</li><li>It does not provide expedited access.</li><li>It does not replace compliance with court rules.</li></ul><br />It describes a service that receives documents by fax transmission and ensures they are filed with the court in accordance with procedural requirements.<br /><br />Understanding that distinction prevents confusion &mdash; and unnecessary filing errors.</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Proposed Changes to Bond Filing That May Affect legal document assistantS, unlawful detainer assistants, process servers, AND professional copiers]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/proposed-changes-to-bond-filing-that-may-affect-ldas]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/proposed-changes-to-bond-filing-that-may-affect-ldas#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:07:13 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[CA Legal Revolution]]></category><category><![CDATA[LDA | Legal Document Assistant]]></category><category><![CDATA[News]]></category><category><![CDATA[Trends & Updates]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/proposed-changes-to-bond-filing-that-may-affect-ldas</guid><description><![CDATA[On February 11, 2026, Assembly Member Chen introduced Assembly Bill 1828, which includes a procedural update that may affect how Legal Document Assistants (LDAs) file their required surety bond.&nbsp;This proposal does not change the $25,000 bond requirement. Instead, it adjusts how the bond is processed at the county level.      What Currently HappensUnder existing law:LDAs must obtain a $25,000 surety bond.The bond is recorded with the County Recorder.A fixed $7 recording fee applies.Any cance [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><font size="3">On February 11, 2026, Assembly Member Chen introduced <strong><a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1828" target="_blank">Assembly Bill 1828</a></strong>, which includes a procedural update that may affect how Legal Document Assistants (LDAs) file their required surety bond.&nbsp;</font><font size="3">This proposal does not change the $25,000 bond requirement. Instead, it adjusts how the bond is processed at the county level.</font><br /></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><font size="5">What Currently Happens</font></strong><br /><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Under existing law:</font><ul style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><li><font size="3">LDAs must obtain a $25,000 surety bond.</font></li><li><font size="3">The bond is recorded with the County Recorder.</font></li><li><font size="3">A fixed $7 recording fee applies.</font></li><li><font size="3">Any cancellation, revocation, or withdrawal of the bond must also be recorded.</font></li></ul><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Recording places the bond into the county&rsquo;s official public records system, similar to deeds and liens.</font><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><font size="5">What AB 1828 Would Change</font></strong><br /><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">If enacted, AB 1828 would make three administrative adjustments:</font><ol style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><li><font size="3">Filing with the County Clerk Instead of the Recorder:&nbsp;</font><font size="3">Rather than recording the bond with the County Recorder, LDAs would file the bond with the County Clerk.&nbsp;</font><font size="3">This shifts the bond from a property-recording system to an administrative filing system, aligning it with other professional registration documents.</font></li><li><font size="3">Removal of the Fixed $7 Fee:&nbsp;</font><font size="3">The bill eliminates the statutory $7 recording fee.</font><br /><font size="3">Instead, filing fees would be determined under the County Clerk&rsquo;s existing authority to set fees. This means costs may vary by county.</font></li><li><font size="3">Six-Year Retention Requirement:&nbsp;</font>The County Clerk would be required to retain the bond for at least six years from the filing date.</li></ol><br /><strong style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><font size="5">Why the Clerk vs. Recorder Distinction Matters</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">You may need to register at a different office depending on your county&rsquo;s structure. In some counties, they operate from completely separate offices or buildings, sometimes even in different government complexes. In others, the roles are combined under a &ldquo;Clerk-Recorder&rdquo; department, meaning the same elected official oversees both functions, often within the same building. Even when housed together, however, the Clerk and Recorder perform legally distinct functions and may operate from different service counters or internal divisions within the same location.&#8203;</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">The County Recorder handles property-related documents, including deeds, liens, and notices affecting title.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">The County Clerk handles administrative filings such as LDA registrations, notary bonds, and fictitious business names.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">AB 1828 moves LDA bonds into the same administrative framework used for other regulated professionals.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><font size="5">What Does Not Change</font></strong><ul style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><li><font size="3">The $25,000 bond requirement remains.</font></li><li><font size="3">Continuous bond coverage is still mandatory.</font></li><li><font size="3">Registration in the county of your principal place of business remains required.</font></li></ul><br /><strong style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><font size="5">Bottom Line<br />&#8203;</font></strong><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1828" target="_blank">Assembly Bill 1828</a>&nbsp;proposes a procedural update, not a substantive change to LDA law.&nbsp;</font><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">If passed, LDAs would file their bond with the County Clerk instead of recording it with the Recorder, and filing fees would be set locally rather than fixed at $7. The core compliance obligations remain the same.</font></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[SAME-DAY DIVORCE: California’s New Joint Petition for Amicable Divorces (EFFECTIVE January 2026)]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/californias-expanded-joint-petition-for-dissolution-effective-january-2026]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/californias-expanded-joint-petition-for-dissolution-effective-january-2026#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 20 Aug 2025 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[CA Legal Revolution]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><category><![CDATA[News]]></category><category><![CDATA[Trends & Updates]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/californias-expanded-joint-petition-for-dissolution-effective-january-2026</guid><description><![CDATA[Beginning January 1, 2026, California implemented a major reform expanding the availability of joint petitions for dissolution, creating a streamlined path for amicable divorces (uncontested dissolution).​This reform was enacted through&nbsp;California Senate Bill 1427, which amended the Family Code to allow spouses to initiate a dissolution or legal separation together — even if they do not qualify for the old summary dissolution process.This represents one of the most meaningful procedural [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"><table class="wsite-multicol-table"><tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"><tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"><td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"><div class="paragraph"><font size="3">Beginning January 1, 2026, California implemented a major reform expanding the availability of <strong>joint petitions for dissolution</strong>, creating a streamlined path for <strong>amicable divorces (uncontested dissolution)</strong>.<br><strong>&#8203;</strong></font><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">This reform was enacted through&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB1427" target="_blank">California Senate Bill 1427</a></strong>, which amended the Family Code to allow spouses to initiate a dissolution or legal separation together &mdash; even if they do not qualify for the old summary dissolution process.<br><br>This represents one of the most meaningful procedural changes in California family law in recent years.</font><br><br><strong style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><font size="4">Joint Petitions Have&nbsp;<em>Always&nbsp;</em>Existed &mdash; But Were Extremely Limited</font></strong><br><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">California has long allowed a simplified joint process under summary dissolution statutes.<br><a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=FAM&amp;division=6.&amp;title=&amp;part=3.&amp;chapter=5.&amp;article=" target="_blank">California Family Code &sect;2400</a><br>However, eligibility was restricted to very narrow circumstances:</font><ul style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><li><font size="3">Marriage of less than five years</font></li><li><font size="3">No minor children</font></li><li><font size="3">No real property</font></li><li><font size="3">Community property and debts below statutory limits (approximately $57,000, adjusted periodically)</font></li><li><font size="3">No retirement benefits requiring division</font></li><li><font size="3">Mutual waiver of spousal support</font></li></ul><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Because of these limitations, most couples &mdash; especially those with children, homes, or retirement accounts &mdash; were required to proceed under the traditional Petition and Response model.</font></div><div style="text-align:center;"><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div><a class="wsite-button wsite-button-small wsite-button-normal" href="https://www.preparedlegal.com/appointments.html" target="_blank"><span class="wsite-button-inner">Schedule An Appointment</span></a><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div></div><div style="text-align:center;"><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div><a class="wsite-button wsite-button-small wsite-button-highlight" href="https://legaldocumentpreparers.cliogrow.com/intake/ec344039afb036ed6985186990cf8abe" target="_blank"><span class="wsite-button-inner">Start Your Same-Day Divorce Intake</span></a><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div></div></td><td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"><div><div id="507259220798544656" align="left" style="width: 100%; overflow-y: hidden;" class="wcustomhtml"><blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal/video/7597720518145379639" data-video-id="7597720518145379639" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"><section><a target="_blank" title="@preparedlegal" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal?refer=embed">@preparedlegal</a> New California Divorce starting January 2026. Spouses can now file together using a Joint Petition &mdash; &#10004;&#65039; With kids &#10004;&#65039; With property &#10004;&#65039; With retirement or a house Divorce starts the same day you file. &#10004;&#65039; No court hearings &#10004;&#65039; No in-person appearances &#10004;&#65039; Case decided solely on paperwork &#10004;&#65039; Streamlined settlement agreements &#10004;&#65039; Divorce starts the same day you file &#10004;&#65039; One court filing fee We simplify the paperwork so your life gets easier. &#9633; Link in bio <a title="California" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/California?refer=embed">#California</a> <a title="Divorcetok" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/Divorcetok?refer=embed">#Divorcetok</a> <a title="Paralegal" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/Paralegal?refer=embed">#Paralegal</a> <a title="Sacramentotiktok" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/Sacramentotiktok?refer=embed">#Sacramentotiktok</a> <a title="familylaw" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/familylaw?refer=embed">#familylaw</a> <a target="_blank" title="&#9836; Countless - Official Sound Studio" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/Countless-6692683186809359108?refer=embed">&#9836; Countless - Official Sound Studio</a></section></blockquote></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div></div></div><div><!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div><div class="paragraph"><font size="4" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><strong>What&nbsp;</strong><strong><a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB1427" target="_blank">California Senate Bill 1427</a></strong><strong>&nbsp;Changed</strong></font><br><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">SB 1427 expanded the joint filing option beyond short-term marriages.<br>Beginning in 2026, spouses pursuing&nbsp;<strong>uncontested divorces</strong>&nbsp;may file a joint petition even if they have:</font><ul style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><li><font size="3">Minor children</font></li><li><font size="3">Real property</font></li><li><font size="3">Retirement accounts</font></li><li><font size="3">Longer-term marriages</font></li><li><font size="3">Community assets exceeding prior summary limits</font></li></ul><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">The law allows both spouses to commence the case together. Filing the joint petition constitutes appearance by both parties. There is no need for service of process between spouses.<br><br>Instead of positioning one spouse as &ldquo;Petitioner&rdquo; and the other as &ldquo;Respondent,&rdquo; the case begins cooperatively as joint Petitioners.<br>This structural change reduces adversarial framing and supports negotiated, cooperative resolutions.</font><br><br><strong style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><font size="4">Why We Call Them &ldquo;Same-Day Divorces&rdquo;</font></strong><br><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">We refer to these as&nbsp;<strong>&ldquo;same-day divorces&rdquo;</strong>&nbsp;&mdash; not because marital status terminates immediately, but because the procedural clock starts immediately and there is no waiting period before submitting judgment paperwork.<br>Under the expanded joint petition structure:</font><ul style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><li><font size="3">The six-month statutory waiting period begins the&nbsp;<strong>same day the petition is filed</strong></font></li><li><font size="3">No service of process is required</font></li><li><font size="3">No 30-day response waiting period applies</font></li><li><font size="3">Proposed judgment documents may be submitted immediately</font></li><li><font size="3">The case can be fully papered and procedurally ready on day one</font></li></ul><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Under the traditional model, one spouse files and serves the other, and at least 30 days must pass before a default or uncontested judgment can proceed.<br><br>Under SB 1427, that 30-day procedural delay is eliminated because both spouses are already before the court at filing.<br>The mandatory six-month waiting period for termination of marital status under&nbsp;<a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=FAM&amp;sectionNum=2339." target="_blank">California Family Code &sect;2339</a>&nbsp;still applies. Marital status cannot terminate sooner than six months from filing.<br><br>However, for same-day divorces, the administrative timeline is significantly streamlined.</font><br><br><strong style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Potential Filing Fee Savings</strong><br><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">In many counties, a traditional dissolution requires two first appearance fees (commonly $435 per party).<br>Because SB 1427 authorizes a single joint filing event, some counties are processing same-day divorces under&nbsp;<em>one filing fee</em>, potentially saving a second $435 first appearance fee.<br><br>Implementation varies by county. Parties should confirm with their local&nbsp;<a href="https://courts.ca.gov/sites/default/files/courts/default/2024-12/statewide-civil-fee-schedule-eff-01012023.pdf" target="_blank">Superior Court</a>.</font><br><br><strong style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Courts Are Still Rolling This Out</strong><br><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">The joint petition process is being integrated statewide:</font><ul style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><li><font size="3">Clerk training is ongoing</font></li><li><font size="3">E-filing systems are being updated</font></li><li><font size="3">Local procedures are being clarified</font></li></ul><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Some counties are fully operational; others are still transitioning. Expect procedural variation during 2026 as implementation stabilizes.<br>Stay tuned for continued updates.</font><br><br><strong style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Same-Day Divorce Services</strong><br><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">For cooperative, fully agreed matters, we are offering:</font><br><strong style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Same-Day&nbsp;</strong><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><strong>Divorce Packages: $1,000 &ndash; $2,500</strong><br>Fees vary depending on:</font><ul style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><li><font size="3">Presence of children</font></li><li><font size="3">Real property division</font></li><li><font size="3">Retirement allocation drafting</font></li><li><font size="3">Settlement agreement complexity</font></li><li><font size="3">Level of coordination required</font></li></ul><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">These same-day divorces are structured to be organized, complete, and submitted at the outset &mdash; often the same day the action is filed.</font><br><br><strong style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Final Takeaways</strong><br><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Joint petitions were previously limited to short-term, low-asset marriages.<br>With the enactment of&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB1427" target="_blank">SB 1427</a></strong>, California has expanded this pathway to serve a broader range of families seeking amicable divorce.<br>For aligned spouses, the 2026 joint petition model provides:</font><ul style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><li><font size="3">Immediate triggering of the six-month clock</font></li><li><font size="3">Elimination of the 30-day response delay</font></li><li><font size="3">Potential filing fee savings</font></li><li><font size="3">Reduced adversarial framing</font></li><li><font size="3">A more efficient, dignified resolution process</font></li></ul><font size="3" style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">As courts continue refining implementation statewide, this process is expected to become a central option for amicable divorces in California.<br><br><em>Stay tuned for updates.</em></font></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why Hire a Legal Document Assistant (LDA) Over a Paralegal?]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/why-hire-a-legal-document-assistant-lda-over-a-paralegal]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/why-hire-a-legal-document-assistant-lda-over-a-paralegal#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jul 2024 16:19:51 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[CA Legal Revolution]]></category><category><![CDATA[LDA | Legal Document Assistant]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><category><![CDATA[Paralegal]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/why-hire-a-legal-document-assistant-lda-over-a-paralegal</guid><description><![CDATA[Navigating legal matters often involves deciding between a Legal Document Assistant (LDA) and a Paralegal. Understanding the distinctions between these two roles, especially in terms of regulation, cost, and transparency, can significantly impact your choice.&#8203;When deciding between a Legal Document Assistant and a Paralegal, consider regulation, cost, transparency, and consumer protection. LDAs, regulated under BPC 6400, offer a secure, transparent, and cost-effective option with verified c [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph" style="text-align:justify;"><font size="3">Navigating legal matters often involves deciding between a Legal Document Assistant (LDA) and a Paralegal. Understanding the distinctions between these two roles, especially in terms of regulation, cost, and transparency, can significantly impact your choice.<br /><br /><span>&#8203;</span><span>When deciding between a Legal Document Assistant and a Paralegal, consider regulation, cost, transparency, and consumer protection. LDAs, regulated under BPC 6400, offer a secure, transparent, and cost-effective option with verified credentials and higher continuing education requirements. Additionally, LDAs can provide services directly to the public without the need for attorney supervision, offering more accessible and flexible support. For reliable and efficient legal document preparation, hiring an LDA can be a practical choice, especially for those who are handling their legal matters independently.</span></font></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">&#8203;Regulation and Safeguards<br></h2>  <div class="paragraph"><font size="3"><strong>Legal Document Assistant (</strong><strong><a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=BPC&amp;division=3.&amp;title=&amp;part=&amp;chapter=5.5.&amp;article=2." target="_blank">BPC 6400, et seq.</a></strong><strong>):</strong></font><ul><li><font size="3"><strong>Regulatory Oversight</strong>: LDAs are regulated under California Business and Professions Code (BPC) 6400. They must register with the county where they work, ensuring they meet specific educational and experience requirements.</font></li><li><font size="3"><strong>Public Safeguards</strong>: LDAs are required to post a bond to protect consumers and must use a statutory contract drafted by an attorney. This contract outlines the services provided and the fees charged, offering transparency and protection to clients.&nbsp;Bad LDA actors can have their licenses revoked by the County Clerk.&nbsp;Disbarred and/or suspended attorneys cannot register as LDAs. There are regulatory prohibitions barring felons or those with civil judgments for misleading representation, or the use of unfair, unlawful, or deceptive business practices from registering as LDAs.</font></li><li><font size="3"><strong>Education</strong>: LDAs must meet the education and experience requirements and complete&nbsp;15 hours of&nbsp; Minimum Continuing Legal Education (MCLE)&nbsp;through the California State Bar approved MCLE and LSMCLE&nbsp;Provider&nbsp;every two years, nearly double the requirement for paralegals.</font></li><li><font size="3"><strong>County Clerk Authentication</strong>: Their education, experience and ongoing training&nbsp;are authenticated by the County Clerk&rsquo;s office every two years, providing verification and accountability.</font></li></ul></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><font size="3">Paralegal (<a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=6400.&amp;lawCode=BPC" target="_blank">BPC 6450</a>):</font></strong><ul><li><font size="3"><strong>Supervision Requirement</strong>: Paralegals can only provide services under the supervision of an attorney. This means you must contract with an attorney or a law firm to access their services.</font></li><li><font size="3"><strong>Lack of Oversight</strong>: While paralegals operate under BPC 6450, there is no registration or regulatory body overseeing their qualifications or practices. Anyone can claim to be a paralegal without formal verification.</font></li><li><font size="3"><strong>No Required Bond</strong>: Paralegals are not required to post a bond or provide a statutory contract, which may leave clients with fewer protections.</font></li><li><font size="3"><strong>Continuing Education</strong>: Paralegals are required to complete 8 hours of continuing education every two years, but this is done on an honor system and is rarely verified if ever.</font></li><li><font size="3"><strong>No Authentication</strong>: There is no straightforward way for consumers to verify the credentials of a paralegal.</font></li></ul></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong>Cost-Effectiveness:&nbsp;</strong><span>Hiring an LDA is often more cost-effective than engaging a paralegal. LDAs provide document preparation and other non-legal advisory services at a lower rate, as they do not operate under the direct supervision of an attorney, unlike paralegals. This makes LDAs a practical choice for routine legal documents where full legal representation is unnecessary.</span><br /><br /><strong>Transparency and Trust:&nbsp;</strong>LDAs offer transparent services. Their statutory contracts clearly outline the scope of work and fees. Additionally, the requirement to post a bond adds an extra layer of security, protecting consumers from potential financial loss.<br /><br /><strong>&#8203;Empowerment Through Self-Representation:&nbsp;</strong><span>LDAs empower individuals to represent themselves in legal matters by providing the necessary documents and factual information. This self-representation can save money and give more control over legal affairs.</span><br /><br /><strong>Accessibility and Convenience:&nbsp;</strong><span>LDAs often provide services remotely, allowing for flexibility and convenience. They offer quick turnaround times and are accessible for consultations, making the process more efficient.</span><br /><br /><strong>Support for Do-it-Yourself (DIY) Legal Matters:&nbsp;</strong><span>LDAs are not substitutes for attorney representation. However, if you are DIY-ing your legal documents, having a skilled professional who is familiar with your court&rsquo;s local rules and practices can make the process smoother and less costly. LDAs can guide you through the intricacies of document preparation, helping ensure that your paperwork is accurate and compliant with legal standards.</span></div>  <div class="wsite-search-element-outer"><div class="wsite-search-element-align-left" style="padding: 10px 0 10px 0">   <form class="wsite-search-element-form" action="/apps/search" method="get">     <div class="wsite-search-element">       <input class="wsite-input wsite-search-element-input" type="text" name="q" placeholder="Search" autocomplete="off" aria-label="Search" />       <span class="wsite-search-element-submit" title="Search"></span>     </div>   </form> </div></div>  <div id="427205356278299945"><div><style type="text/css">	@font-face {  font-family: 'scrolltopfont';  src: url('//marketplace.editmysite.com/uploads/b/marketplace-elements-427859941599535531-1.0.0/assets/fonts/icomoon.eot');  src: 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style="clear:both;"></div></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Navigating Legal Support Services Landscape: Understanding Prepared Legal Corp's Offerings]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/navigating-legal-support-services-landscape-understanding-prepared-legal-corps-offerings]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/navigating-legal-support-services-landscape-understanding-prepared-legal-corps-offerings#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 13 Sep 2023 18:06:25 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[CA Legal Revolution]]></category><category><![CDATA[LDA | Legal Document Assistant]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/navigating-legal-support-services-landscape-understanding-prepared-legal-corps-offerings</guid><description><![CDATA[In today's complex legal landscape, individuals often find themselves in need of various legal services, ranging from simple document assistance to full-fledged attorney representation. Prepared Legal Corp recognizes the diverse needs of clients and offers a range of services to meet these demands. In this blog, we'll explore the key distinctions between our Legal Document Assistant (LDA) services, Paralegal services, and Unbundled Legal Support, often referred to as "Attorney Support."      Leg [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span>In today's complex legal landscape, individuals often find themselves in need of various legal services, ranging from simple document assistance to full-fledged attorney representation. Prepared Legal Corp recognizes the diverse needs of clients and offers a range of services to meet these demands. In this blog, we'll explore the key distinctions between our Legal Document Assistant (LDA) services, Paralegal services, and Unbundled Legal Support, often referred to as "Attorney Support."</span></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><font size="4">Legal Document Assistant (LDA) Services: Empowering Self-Representing Litigants</font></strong><br />Under California Business Professions Code &sect;6400, our Legal Document Assistant (LDA) services are designed to empower self-representing litigants. LDAs provide self-help legal services, assisting clients in preparing legal documents, ensuring procedural compliance, and using court instructions to guiding them through the often intricate legal processes. However, it's important to note that the client retains full control and responsibility for making all legal decisions in their case.<br /><br />Our LDAs serve as knowledgeable professional, offering valuable assistance, but they do not make legal decisions on behalf of the client. Clients benefit from affordable and accessible support while remaining in control of their legal matters. This service is especially valuable for those who choose to represent themselves but seek professional guidance.<br /><br /><strong><font size="4">Paralegal Services: Supporting Licensed Attorneys</font></strong><br />Prepared Legal Corp's Paralegal services operate exclusively in collaboration with licensed Attorneys, following California Business Professions Code &sect;6450. In this capacity, our Paralegals work closely with attorneys to provide vital legal support services. These services encompass tasks such as legal research, document drafting, case management, and client communication.<br /><br />It is important to emphasize that in this partnership, attorneys maintain the responsibility for making all legal decisions in their client's case. Our Paralegals serve as integral members of the legal team, facilitating efficient case management and allowing attorneys to focus on the core aspects of their practice. This collaboration ensures that clients receive high-quality legal services while adhering to professional standards and ethical guidelines.<br /><br /><strong><font size="4">Unbundled Legal Services: Tailored Legal Assistance</font></strong><br />Unbundled Legal Services, often referred to as "Attorney Support," involve specific legal tasks that clients can access on a pay-as-you-go basis. These tasks may include court filing, process serving, deposition officer services, and notary public services, among others. These services are governed by various sections of the California Business and Professions Code, such as &sect;&sect;22351, 22450, and 22450, as well as California Government Code &sect;8201 for notaries.<br /><br />Clients can select and pay for individual legal tasks based on their needs, making this option flexible and cost-effective. These services are typically provided by professionals who hold the necessary registrations and licenses. Unbundled Legal Services allow clients to tailor their legal support precisely to their requirements, optimizing their legal budgets and obtaining efficient, targeted assistance.<br /><br /><strong><font size="4">Choosing the Right Level of Support</font></strong><br />When deciding which level of support and scope of services best suit your needs, it is crucial to verify the qualifications and licensing of the individual or service provider you choose to work with. Prepared Legal Corp. ensures that all our professionals adhere to the highest ethical and legal standards, providing you with confidence in your legal support choices.<br /><br />Whether you are a self-representing litigant seeking guidance, an attorney requiring support services, or a client looking for specific legal tasks, Prepared Legal Corp offers a comprehensive range of solutions to meet your legal needs. By understanding the distinctions between LDA services, Paralegal services, and Unbundled Legal Support, you can make informed decisions about the level of assistance that aligns with your unique circumstances.</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Understanding Santa Clara Superior Court's FL-342 Child Support Form Requirement]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/understanding-santa-clara-superior-courts-fl-342-child-support-form-requirement]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/understanding-santa-clara-superior-courts-fl-342-child-support-form-requirement#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 28 Aug 2023 20:01:20 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[CA Legal Revolution]]></category><category><![CDATA[Client Resources]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/understanding-santa-clara-superior-courts-fl-342-child-support-form-requirement</guid><description><![CDATA[In the intricate world of family law, even seemingly straightforward matters like child support can come with their own set of complexities. Different jurisdictions often have varying rules and requirements when it comes to legal processes involving child support. One such unique requirement is the use of Judicial Council Form FL-342 in Santa Clara Superior Court. While this form might not be universal across all California counties, it plays a crucial role in child support orders within Santa C [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span>In the intricate world of family law, even seemingly straightforward matters like child support can come with their own set of complexities. Different jurisdictions often have varying rules and requirements when it comes to legal processes involving child support. One such unique requirement is the use of Judicial Council Form FL-342 in Santa Clara Superior Court. While this form might not be universal across all California counties, it plays a crucial role in child support orders within Santa Clara County. In this blog, we'll delve into the details of FL-342, its significance, and why it's an essential component of judgments in Santa Clara Superior Court.</span></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight:600">The FL-342 Form: A Brief Overview</span><br />Judicial Council Form <a href="https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl342.pdf" target="_blank">FL-342</a>, also known as the "<strong>Child Support Information and Order Attachment</strong>," serves as a supplementary document that provides crucial information about child support arrangements in family law cases. This form helps to ensure transparency and consistency in child support calculations, taking into account factors like income, custody arrangements, and healthcare expenses.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-medium " style="padding-top:5px;padding-bottom:5px;margin-left:5px;margin-right:5px;text-align:center"> <a href='https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl342.pdf' target='_blank'> <img src="https://www.preparedlegal.com/uploads/8/9/0/5/89056540/fl-342_orig.png" alt="FL-342 Child Support Information and Order Attachment Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%">FL-342 Child Support Information and Order Attachment</div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight:600">Santa Clara's Unique Requirement</span><br /><span>While FL-342 was adopted for mandatory use on proposed judgments across California effective October 1, 2018, not every county requires its inclusion in judgments containing child support orders. However, Santa Clara Superior Court stands out by making the use of FL-342 mandatory. This requirement underscores the court's commitment to maintaining a standardized and comprehensive approach to child support orders.</span><br /></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.preparedlegal.com/uploads/8/9/0/5/89056540/santa-clara-judgment-feedback-fl-342_orig.png" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight:600">Avoiding Rejection: The Importance of Form Submission</span><br /><span>Failure to submit the mandatory FL-342 form alongside other required documentation can lead to the rejection of a judgment in Santa Clara Superior Court. This requirement might seem strict, but it ultimately serves to ensure that all necessary information related to child support is provided and thoroughly reviewed before finalizing judgments. By adhering to this requirement, the court aims to prevent oversights and disputes that might arise due to incomplete or inaccurate information.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight:600">Non-Guideline Child Support Cases</span><br /><span>In cases where child support deviates from standard guideline calculations, an additional form is required. Santa Clara Superior Court's Local Rule 3. B. mandates the submission of FL-342(a) for non-guideline child support cases. This requirement emphasizes the court's dedication to maintaining transparency, especially when deviations from standard calculations occur. By requiring this additional form, the court ensures that all parties involved have a clear understanding of the factors contributing to the determination of child support amounts.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight:600">Local Rule 3. B.: Providing Further Clarity</span><br /><a href="https://www.scscourt.org/general_info/rules/pdfs/Family.pdf" target="_blank">Santa Clara Superior Court's Local Rule</a><span>&nbsp;3. B. establishes a clear guideline for when a computer support printout should be attached to pleadings or submitted at the hearing. This rule applies to cases where child support or temporary spousal or partner support is at issue, excluding cases involving permanent spousal or partner support. This rule, in effect since January 1, 2011, adds an extra layer of accountability to the child support process, facilitating more accurate and equitable judgments.</span><br /><br /><strong>Consult with an Attorney</strong><br /><span>Always consult with a qualified family law attorney for personalized guidance and advice in your specific situation.&nbsp;Remember, each situation is unique, and professional legal advice from an attorney is essential for protecting your rights and ensuring a fair outcome. Navigating family law cases involving child support issues can be overwhelming. It is strongly recommended to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can provide guidance tailored to your specific circumstances. An attorney will help you understand the legal requirements, assist in preparing the necessary documents, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight:600">Conclusion</span><br /><span>Navigating the intricacies of family law, especially when it comes to child support orders, can be a complex endeavor. Santa Clara Superior Court's unique requirement for the mandatory use of FL-342 and FL-342(a) forms highlights the importance of transparency, accuracy, and consistency in child support arrangements. While not every county in California has embraced this requirement, Santa Clara's commitment to a standardized approach is clear. By adhering to these requirements, legal professionals and parties involved can ensure that child support orders are well-informed and well-founded, ultimately contributing to fair and just judgments.</span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Family Law Default Stipulated Judgment Rejections in Alameda County for Out-of-State Respondents: Understanding California "Minimum Contacts" and "Personal Jurisdiction"]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/family-law-default-stipulated-judgment-rejections-in-alamanda-county-for-out-of-state-respondents-understanding-california-minimum-contacts-and-personal-jurisdiction]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/family-law-default-stipulated-judgment-rejections-in-alamanda-county-for-out-of-state-respondents-understanding-california-minimum-contacts-and-personal-jurisdiction#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jun 2023 21:59:34 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[CA Legal Revolution]]></category><category><![CDATA[Client Resources]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/family-law-default-stipulated-judgment-rejections-in-alamanda-county-for-out-of-state-respondents-understanding-california-minimum-contacts-and-personal-jurisdiction</guid><description><![CDATA[Navigating the complexities of family law can be challenging, especially when dealing with cases involving out-of-state respondents. One particular aspect that requires careful attention in the process of obtaining a&nbsp;Default Stipulated Judgment&nbsp;(Default with Agreement) in Alameda Superior Court is&nbsp;establishing "personal jurisdiction". In the case of&nbsp;Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. v. Superior Court, the Supreme Court set forth specific requirements for establishing personal jurisdic [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span>Navigating the complexities of family law can be challenging, especially when dealing with cases involving out-of-state respondents. One particular aspect that requires careful attention in the process of obtaining a&nbsp;</span><a href="https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/divorce/finalize-divorce" target="_blank">Default Stipulated Judgment</a><span>&nbsp;(Default with Agreement) in Alameda Superior Court is&nbsp;</span><span>establishing "</span><a href="https://www.courts.ca.gov/9617.htm?rdeLocaleAttr=en#Personal_jurisdiction" target="_blank">personal jurisdiction</a><span>". In the case of&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/16pdf/16-466_1qm1.pdf" target="_blank">Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. v. Superior Court</a><span>, the Supreme Court set forth specific requirements for establishing personal jurisdiction&nbsp;</span><span>over an out-of-state respondent</span><span>.&nbsp;Failure to establish personal jurisdiction may hinder the court's ability to grant a judgment that includes spousal support or property division orders.<br /><br />&#8203;</span><em>&#8203;</em><span>This blog post aims to shed light on the procedural review of default and uncontested judgments submitted under the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.courts.ca.gov/cms/rules/index.cfm?title=five&amp;linkid=rule5_409" target="_blank">Family Code section 2336</a><span>&nbsp;in Alameda&nbsp;County Superior Court, as well as provide recommendations for navigating such cases. It is important to consult with an attorney to ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal proceedings.</span></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><strong>The Court's Procedural Review:</strong> When a default or uncontested judgment is submitted based on a declaration under Family Code section 2336, the court in Alamanda County is obligated to conduct a procedural review of all the documents submitted. This review aims to identify any defects in the documents and must include notifying the attorneys or self-represented litigants of the identified issues. According to the <a href="https://www.courts.ca.gov/cms/rules/index.cfm?title=five&amp;linkid=rule5_409" target="_blank">California Rules of Court 5.407</a>, any notification of defects must also provide basic information for correcting those defects.&nbsp;This ensures that all parties are aware of any deficiencies in their submissions and provides an opportunity for necessary amendments.<br /><br /><strong>Amending the Proposed Judgment</strong><br />The court may identify various defects in a proposed judgment submitted in a default with agreement case involving an out-of-state respondent. Some of the common errors and instructions provided by the court for amending the proposed judgment are as follows:<ol><li><strong>Minimum Contacts Declaration:</strong> If you wish to establish the court's jurisdiction, you can file a "minimum contacts" declaration. This declaration should provide factual evidence that demonstrates the respondent's sufficient minimum contacts with California to warrant the court's authority in making orders regarding spousal support and property issues.</li><li><strong>Express Consent: </strong>Another way to establish jurisdiction is by amending the proposed judgment to include the respondent's express consent to the court's jurisdiction. You can add this provision to the parties' Marriage Settlement Agreement or include it in item 4.o on the FL-180 form.</li><li><strong>Service in California:</strong> If you serve the respondent <u>while they are in California</u>, it is crucial to file a proof of service describing the details of the service. You can use the optional Proof of Service of Summons (<a href="https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/jcc-form/FL-115" target="_blank">form FL-115</a>) for this purpose.</li><li><strong>Formal Appearance:</strong> If the respondent wishes to formally appear in the case, you must first submit a stipulation to set aside the default that has been taken against them. The respondent can formally appear by filing a Response (<a href="https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/jcc-form/FL-120" target="_blank">form FL-120</a>) or by signing an Appearance, Stipulations, and Waivers (<a href="https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/jcc-form/FL-130" target="_blank">form FL-130</a>) that has already been filed. The respondent will be required to pay the first appearance fee of $435, unless a fee waiver is obtained. Additionally, the respondent must complete form <a href="https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/jcc-form/FL-141" target="_blank">FL-141</a>, which details the service of their preliminary declarations of disclosure. Lastly, you must amend item 4 on the <a href="https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/jcc-form/FL-170" target="_blank">FL-170</a> form so that item 4.c is checked.</li><li>&#8203;<strong>Status-Only Judgment:</strong> If you cannot establish the court's jurisdiction over the respondent through any of the aforementioned methods, you have the option to submit a proposed status-only judgment. In this case, you should enter the following at item 4.o on the <a href="https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/jcc-form/FL-180" target="_blank">FL-180</a>: "<em>The Respondent does not have the requisite contacts with CA, and for that reason, I am submitting a proposed status-only judgment</em>." However, it is essential to remove any orders regarding spousal support or property division from the FL-180, check the box for "<em>status only</em>" in the header of the FL-180, and refrain from checking the box at item 4.g on the FL-180 or item 17 on the Declaration for Default or Uncontested Dissolution or Legal Separation (<a href="https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/jcc-form/FL-170" target="_blank">form FL-170</a>).</li></ol><br />&#8203;<strong>Consult with an Attorney</strong><br /><span>Always consult with a qualified family law attorney for personalized guidance and advice in your specific situation.&nbsp;Remember, each situation is unique, and professional legal advice from an attorney is essential for protecting your rights and ensuring a fair outcome.&nbsp;</span>Navigating family law cases involving out-of-state respondents and complex jurisdiction issues can be overwhelming. It is strongly recommended to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can provide guidance tailored to your specific circumstances. An attorney will help you understand the legal requirements, assist in preparing the necessary documents, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.&nbsp;<br /><br /><strong>Conclusion</strong><br />When seeking a Default Stipulated Judgment (Default with Agreement) in Alameda Superior Court, it is vital to carefully consider the court's instructions and requirements. Particularly for cases involving out-of-state respondents, establishing jurisdiction and adhering to the court's guidelines become critical for a successful resolution. By following the steps outlined by the court, individuals can navigate the process more effectively and ensure that their proposed judgments align with the necessary legal requirements.&nbsp;</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Has a customer ever asked you for legal advice?]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/has-a-customer-ever-asked-you-for-legal-advice]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/has-a-customer-ever-asked-you-for-legal-advice#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Tue, 13 Jun 2023 19:41:46 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[CA Legal Revolution]]></category><category><![CDATA[LDA | Legal Document Assistant]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><category><![CDATA[News]]></category><category><![CDATA[Trends & Updates]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/has-a-customer-ever-asked-you-for-legal-advice</guid><description><![CDATA[As a Legal Document Assistant (LDA), I encounter a wide array of individuals seeking my assistance with their legal matters. It is both rewarding and challenging to guide them through the intricacies of the legal system. However, there is a crucial aspect that I must clarify&mdash;I am unable to provide legal advice, despite the persistent inquiries from my customers. While their curiosity is understandable, it is vital to recognize the limitations placed upon me as an LDA.To shed light on the i [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">As a Legal Document Assistant (LDA), I encounter a wide array of individuals seeking my assistance with their legal matters. It is both rewarding and challenging to guide them through the intricacies of the legal system. However, there is a crucial aspect that I must clarify&mdash;I am unable to provide legal advice, despite the persistent inquiries from my customers. While their curiosity is understandable, it is vital to recognize the limitations placed upon me as an LDA.<br /><br />To shed light on the importance of this distinction, let's delve into the findings of the California Justice Gap study. This comprehensive analysis revealed a distressing reality: a significant knowledge gap exists among the general public when it comes to understanding their legal issues. This lack of awareness is precisely why individuals often unwittingly seek legal advice when all they require is a legal analysis.</div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div><div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div> <hr class="styled-hr" style="width:100%;"></hr> <div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div></div>  <span class='imgPusher' style='float:left;height:0px'></span><span style='display: table;width:auto;position:relative;float:left;max-width:100%;;clear:left;margin-top:0px;*margin-top:0px'><a><img src="https://www.preparedlegal.com/uploads/8/9/0/5/89056540/published/knowldge-gap-graph.jpg?1686685840" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; border-width:0; max-width:100%" alt="Picture" class="galleryImageBorder wsite-image" /></a><span style="display: table-caption; caption-side: bottom; font-size: 90%; margin-top: -10px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: center;" class="wsite-caption"></span></span> <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;display:block;"><strong><font size="3">How Do We Know There&rsquo;s a Knowledge Gap?</font></strong><ul><li><font size="3">&middot; Even though more than half of Californians experience at least one actionable civil legal problem in a given year, they seek legal help for only one in three of these problems.</font></li><li><br /></li><li><font size="3">&middot; Californians did not seek or receive any help (legal or nonlegal) for 43 percent of their civil legal problems.</font></li></ul><font size="3"><br /><br /><strong>Top Reasons for Not Seeking Legal Help</strong></font><ul><li><font size="3">Unsure if their problem is a legal issue (31%)</font></li><li><font size="3">Decided to deal with the problem without help (31%)<br /></font></li><li><font size="3">Worried about cost (16%)</font></li><li><font size="3">Did not know where to look (15%)</font></li><li><font size="3">Afraid to pursue legal action (14%)</font></li></ul><font size="3"><br />&#8203;These results indicate that most Californians do not recognize the legal aspects of their problems; and even if they do, many do not know how to access the appropriate resources to address them; signaling two distinct elements of a knowledge gap.<br />Source:&nbsp;&#8203;The Knowledge Gap &ndash; Findings and Recommendations&nbsp;<a href="https://www.calbar.ca.gov/Portals/0/documents/accessJustice/Justice-Gap-Fact-Sheet-Knowledge-Gap.pdf" target="_blank" style="">www.calbar.ca.gov/Portals/0/documents/accessJustice/Justice-Gap-Fact-Sheet-Knowledge-Gap.pdf</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</font><br /></div> <hr style="width:100%;clear:both;visibility:hidden;"></hr>  <div><div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div> <hr class="styled-hr" style="width:100%;"></hr> <div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span>By providing the public with accessible legal resources, such as workshops, information campaigns, and easily understandable materials, we can bridge the knowledge gap and equip individuals to better advocate for their rights. We must encourage partnerships between legal professionals and community organizations, fostering collaborations that aim to empower and educate.</span><br /><br /><span>Moreover, it is essential for our educational institutions to recognize the importance of legal literacy and integrate it into the curriculum. By equipping our youth with a basic understanding of legal concepts and processes, we can lay the foundation for a society that values justice and actively engages with the legal system.</span><br /><br /><span>The California Justice Gap study has highlighted a significant obstacle in our pursuit of a just society. It is incumbent upon us all to recognize the urgency of this issue and work collectively to bridge the knowledge gap. By doing so, we can empower individuals, promote equality, and strengthen the very fabric of our legal system.</span><br /><br /><span>Let us take a stand against this injustice and strive for a California where everyone has the knowledge and understanding to navigate the legal landscape effectively. Together, we can ensure that justice is not just an abstract concept but a tangible reality for all.</span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Divorce Judgement Rejected?]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/judgement-rejected]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/judgement-rejected#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 03 May 2023 23:50:49 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Client Resources]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><category><![CDATA[Trends & Updates]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/judgement-rejected</guid><description><![CDATA[5 Common Reasons California Courts Return Judgment PacketsIf your divorce judgment was returned by the court, you are not alone. Judgment rejections are common in California family law and are usually due to procedural defects &mdash; not substantive issues.   					 						 						 						 						 							#wsite-video-container-495229938253230055{ 								background: url(//square.online/uploads/b/89056540-671966035269250306/download_313.jpg); 							}  							#video-iframe-495229938253230055{ 							 [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><strong>5 Common Reasons California Courts Return Judgment Packets</strong><br /><font size="3">If your divorce judgment was returned by the court, you are not alone. Judgment rejections are common in California family law and are usually due to procedural defects &mdash; not substantive issues.</font><br /></div>  <div class="wsite-video"><div title="Video: download_313.mp4" class="wsite-video-wrapper wsite-video-height-282 wsite-video-align-center"> 					<div id="wsite-video-container-495229938253230055" class="wsite-video-container" style="margin: 10px 0 10px 0;"> 						<iframe allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" id="video-iframe-495229938253230055" 							src="about:blank"> 						</iframe> 						 						<style> 							#wsite-video-container-495229938253230055{ 								background: url(//square.online/uploads/b/89056540-671966035269250306/download_313.jpg); 							}  							#video-iframe-495229938253230055{ 								background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/videojs/play-icon.png?1770915916); 							}  							#wsite-video-container-495229938253230055, #video-iframe-495229938253230055{ 								background-repeat: no-repeat; 								background-position:center; 							}  							@media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), 								only screen and (        min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), 								only screen and (                min-resolution: 192dpi), 								only screen and (                min-resolution: 2dppx) { 									#video-iframe-495229938253230055{ 										background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/videojs/@2x/play-icon.png?1770915916); 										background-repeat: no-repeat; 										background-position:center; 										background-size: 70px 70px; 									} 							} 						</style> 					</div> 				</div></div>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">Here's five success tips for filing your divorce judgement.&#8203;&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legaldocumentassistant"><span style="font-weight:600">#legaldocumentassistant</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorce"><span style="font-weight:600">#divorce</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcepapers"><span style="font-weight:600">#divorcepapers</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcememes"><span style="font-weight:600">#divorcememes</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/familylaw"><span style="font-weight:600">#familylaw</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/familycourt"><span style="font-weight:600">#familycourt</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/sacramentofamilycourt"><span style="font-weight:600">#sacramentofamilycourt</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcesupport"><span style="font-weight:600">#divorcesupport</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcequotes"><span style="font-weight:600">#divorcequotes</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcemoms"><span style="font-weight:600">#divorcemoms</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcelife"><span style="font-weight:600">#divorcelife</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/separation"><span style="font-weight:600">#separation</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/resolution"><span style="font-weight:600">#resolution</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcedlife"><span style="font-weight:600">#divorcedlife</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/domesticpartnership"><span style="font-weight:600">#domesticpartnership</span></a><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">&nbsp;</span><a target="_self" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/myristorantecreation"><span style="font-weight:600">#myristorantecreation</span></a></div>  <div style="text-align:center;"><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div> <a class="wsite-button wsite-button-small wsite-button-normal" href="https://www.preparedlegal.com/appointments.html" target="_blank"> <span class="wsite-button-inner">Schedule an Appointment</span> </a> <div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div class="paragraph">Here are five of the most common reasons:<br /><br />1. Incomplete <span><a href="https://courts.ca.gov/sites/default/files/courts/default/2024-11/fl182.pdf" target="_blank">FL-182 Judgment Checklist</a></span><br />The FL-182 functions as the court&rsquo;s internal roadmap. If required boxes are not checked, attachments are not properly identified, or the case type is marked incorrectly (default, uncontested, stipulated), the clerk may reject the entire packet.<br />Tip: Use the FL-182 as a final compliance checklist before submission.<br /><br />2. Incorrect Number of Copies<br />Most courts require:<ul><li><span>FL-180 Judgment</span> &mdash; Original plus three copies</li><li>All other supporting documents &mdash; Original plus two copies</li></ul>If insufficient copies are submitted, the clerk cannot process and return conformed copies, resulting in rejection or delay.<br /><br />3. Missing Original Signatures<br />For stipulated or uncontested judgments, courts generally require original (wet) signatures unless the county permits compliant electronic signatures.<br />Common issues include:<ul><li>One party failed to sign</li><li>Signature lines left blank</li><li>Dates missing</li><li>Marital Settlement Agreement signed, but FL-180 unsigned - <em>Respondent's signature must be notarized.</em></li></ul>Any missing signature can result in rejection.<br /><br />4. Disclosure Requirements Not Properly Completed<br />California requires the exchange of preliminary financial disclosures before entry of judgment.<br />Courts frequently reject judgments when:<ul><li><span>FL-141 Declaration Regarding Service of Disclosure</span> is missing</li><li>Final disclosures were not properly waived using <span>FL-144 Stipulation and Waiver of Final Declaration of Disclosure</span></li></ul>Disclosure compliance is mandatory, even in amicable cases.<br /><br />5. Attachments Do Not Match the Relief Requested<br />If the judgment references:<ul><li>Property division</li><li>Custody and visitation</li><li>Child or spousal support</li><li>Retirement division</li></ul>But the supporting attachments are missing, inconsistent, or improperly formatted, the court will return the packet.<br />Judges review for internal consistency. Every referenced order must be properly attached and clearly stated.<br /><br /><strong>Final Note<br /></strong>Divorce judgment rejections are typically procedural. With correct formatting, sufficient copies, complete disclosures, and properly executed signatures, most issues are preventable.</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Need to file for divorce in California?]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/need-to-file-for-divorce-in-california]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/need-to-file-for-divorce-in-california#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Tue, 07 Mar 2023 04:57:52 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Client Resources]]></category><category><![CDATA[LDA | Legal Document Assistant]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/need-to-file-for-divorce-in-california</guid><description><![CDATA[Here’s a seven simple step overview of the California divorce process. Keep in mind, every county has their local procedures so steps may vary depending upon your county.&nbsp;@preparedlegal Need to file for divorce in California? Here’s a seven simple step overview of the #california #divorceprocess. Every county has their local procedures so steps may vary depending upon your county. #preparedlegal #LegalDocumentAssistant #legaldocumentpreparation #documentpreparation #legaldocumentprepare [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">Here&rsquo;s a seven simple step overview of the California divorce process</span><span style="color:rgb(22, 24, 35)">. Keep in mind, every county has their local procedures so steps may vary depending upon your county.&nbsp;</span></div><div><div id="529719459832592579" align="center" style="width: 100%; overflow-y: hidden;" class="wcustomhtml"><blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal/video/7207200044242717998" data-video-id="7207200044242717998" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"><section><a target="_blank" title="@preparedlegal" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal?refer=embed">@preparedlegal</a> Need to file for divorce in California? Here&rsquo;s a seven simple step overview of the <a title="california" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/california?refer=embed">#california</a> <a title="divorceprocess" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorceprocess?refer=embed">#divorceprocess</a>. Every county has their local procedures so steps may vary depending upon your county. <a title="preparedlegal" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/preparedlegal?refer=embed">#preparedlegal</a> <a title="legaldocumentassistant" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legaldocumentassistant?refer=embed">#LegalDocumentAssistant</a> <a title="legaldocumentpreparation" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legaldocumentpreparation?refer=embed">#legaldocumentpreparation</a> <a title="documentpreparation" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/documentpreparation?refer=embed">#documentpreparation</a> <a title="legaldocumentpreparers" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legaldocumentpreparers?refer=embed">#legaldocumentpreparers</a> <a title="legaldocumentservice" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legaldocumentservice?refer=embed">#legaldocumentservice</a> <a title="legaldocumentpreparer" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legaldocumentpreparer?refer=embed">#legaldocumentpreparer</a> <a title="legalprofessional" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legalprofessional?refer=embed">#legalprofessional</a> <a title="attorneyalternative" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/attorneyalternative?refer=embed">#attorneyalternative</a> <a title="legalprofessional" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legalprofessional?refer=embed">#legalprofessional</a> <a title="legalprofession" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legalprofession?refer=embed">#legalprofession</a> <a title="paraprofessional" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/paraprofessional?refer=embed">#paraprofessional</a> <a title="lda" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/lda?refer=embed">#LDA</a> <a title="attorneyalternative" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/attorneyalternative?refer=embed">#attorneyalternative</a> <a title="divorcio" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcio?refer=embed">#divorcio</a> <a title="tejano" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/tejano?refer=embed">#tejano</a> <a title="divorcioconhijos" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcioconhijos?refer=embed">#divorcioconhijos</a> <a title="divorcioexpress" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcioexpress?refer=embed">#divorcioexpress</a> <a title="divorciojudicial" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorciojudicial?refer=embed">#divorciojudicial</a> <a title="servicioslegales" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/servicioslegales?refer=embed">#servicioslegales</a> <a title="asistentdeformularioslegales" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/asistentdeformularioslegales?refer=embed">#asistentdeformularioslegales</a> <a title="divorce" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorce?refer=embed">#divorce</a> <a title="divorcepapers" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcepapers?refer=embed">#divorcepapers</a> <a title="divorcememes" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcememes?refer=embed">#divorcememes</a> <a title="familylaw" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/familylaw?refer=embed">#familylaw</a> <a title="familycourt" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/familycourt?refer=embed">#familycourt</a> <a title="sacramentofamilycourt" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/sacramentofamilycourt?refer=embed">#sacramentofamilycourt</a> <a title="divorcesupport" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcesupport?refer=embed">#divorcesupport</a> <a title="divorcequotes" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcequotes?refer=embed">#divorcequotes</a> <a title="divorcemoms" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcemoms?refer=embed">#divorcemoms</a> <a title="divorcelife" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcelife?refer=embed">#divorcelife</a> <a title="separation" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/separation?refer=embed">#separation</a> <a title="resolution" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/resolution?refer=embed">#resolution</a> <a title="divorcedlife" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcedlife?refer=embed">#divorcedlife</a> <a title="domesticpartnership" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/domesticpartnership?refer=embed">#domesticpartnership</a> <a title="californiadivorce" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/californiadivorce?refer=embed">#californiadivorce</a> <a title="divorcedocuments" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcedocuments?refer=embed">#divorcedocuments</a> <a title="mistakesarelessons" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/mistakesarelessons?refer=embed">#mistakesarelessons</a> <a title="movingforward" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/movingforward?refer=embed">#movingforward</a> <a title="breakup" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/breakup?refer=embed">#breakup</a> <a title="selflove" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/selflove?refer=embed">#selflove</a> <a title="traumarecovery" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/traumarecovery?refer=embed">#traumarecovery</a> <a title="wellnessjourney" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/wellnessjourney?refer=embed">#wellnessjourney</a> <a title="findingpeace" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/findingpeace?refer=embed">#findingpeace</a> <a title="innerpeace" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/innerpeace?refer=embed">#innerpeace</a> <a title="intentions" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/intentions?refer=embed">#intentions</a> <a title="youareworthy" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/youareworthy?refer=embed">#youareworthy</a> <a title="boundaries" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/boundaries?refer=embed">#boundaries</a> <a title="toxicrelationships" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/toxicrelationships?refer=embed">#toxicrelationships</a> <a target="_blank" title="&#9836; I Think I Like When It Rains - WILLIS" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/I-Think-I-Like-When-It-Rains-6895811481653266433?refer=embed">&#9836; I Think I Like When It Rains - WILLIS</a></section></blockquote></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Divorce Judgement rejected?]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/divorce-judgement-rejected]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/divorce-judgement-rejected#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 27 Feb 2023 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/divorce-judgement-rejected</guid><description><![CDATA[@preparedlegal Judgement rejected? Here’s five success tips for filing your divorce judgement. #legaldocumentassistant #divorce #divorcepapers #divorcememes #familylaw #familycourt #sacramentofamilycourt #divorcesupport #divorcequotes #divorcemoms #divorcelife #separation #resolution #divorcedlife #domesticpartnership #myristorantecreation ♬ Canyons - Official Sound Studio [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div id="883531387648256314" align="center" style="width: 100%; overflow-y: hidden;" class="wcustomhtml"><blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal/video/7204677752400825646" data-video-id="7204677752400825646" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"><section><a target="_blank" title="@preparedlegal" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal?refer=embed">@preparedlegal</a> Judgement rejected? Here&rsquo;s five success tips for filing your divorce judgement. <a title="legaldocumentassistant" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legaldocumentassistant?refer=embed">#legaldocumentassistant</a> <a title="divorce" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorce?refer=embed">#divorce</a> <a title="divorcepapers" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcepapers?refer=embed">#divorcepapers</a> <a title="divorcememes" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcememes?refer=embed">#divorcememes</a> <a title="familylaw" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/familylaw?refer=embed">#familylaw</a> <a title="familycourt" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/familycourt?refer=embed">#familycourt</a> <a title="sacramentofamilycourt" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/sacramentofamilycourt?refer=embed">#sacramentofamilycourt</a> <a title="divorcesupport" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcesupport?refer=embed">#divorcesupport</a> <a title="divorcequotes" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcequotes?refer=embed">#divorcequotes</a> <a title="divorcemoms" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcemoms?refer=embed">#divorcemoms</a> <a title="divorcelife" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcelife?refer=embed">#divorcelife</a> <a title="separation" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/separation?refer=embed">#separation</a> <a title="resolution" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/resolution?refer=embed">#resolution</a> <a title="divorcedlife" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/divorcedlife?refer=embed">#divorcedlife</a> <a title="domesticpartnership" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/domesticpartnership?refer=embed">#domesticpartnership</a> <a title="myristorantecreation" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/myristorantecreation?refer=embed">#myristorantecreation</a> <a target="_blank" title="&#9836; Canyons - Official Sound Studio" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/Canyons-6681198633301314311?refer=embed">&#9836; Canyons - Official Sound Studio</a></section></blockquote></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[How to work with an LDA]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/how-to-work-with-an-lda]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/how-to-work-with-an-lda#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 20 Feb 2023 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/how-to-work-with-an-lda</guid><description><![CDATA[@preparedlegal How to work with an #LDA. #unbundledservices #legaldocumentassistant ♬ Lo-fi hip hop - NAO-K [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div id="903522306712842532" align="center" style="width: 100%; overflow-y: hidden;" class="wcustomhtml"><blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal/video/7076246596043935022" data-video-id="7076246596043935022" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"><section><a target="_blank" title="@preparedlegal" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal?refer=embed">@preparedlegal</a> How to work with an <a title="lda" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/lda?refer=embed">#LDA</a>. <a title="unbundledservices" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/unbundledservices?refer=embed">#unbundledservices</a> <a title="legaldocumentassistant" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legaldocumentassistant?refer=embed">#legaldocumentassistant</a> <a target="_blank" title="&#9836; Lo-fi hip hop - NAO-K" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/Lo-fi-hip-hop-6817306305766639617?refer=embed">&#9836; Lo-fi hip hop - NAO-K</a></section></blockquote></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pricing and Services]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/pricing-and-services]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/pricing-and-services#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 13 Feb 2023 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/pricing-and-services</guid><description><![CDATA[@preparedlegal #LegalDocumentAssistant preparation, #courtfiling ♬ Lazy Sunday - Official Sound Studio [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div id="578123866510507244" align="center" style="width: 100%; overflow-y: hidden;" class="wcustomhtml"><blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal/video/7075476699776912686" data-video-id="7075476699776912686" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"><section><a target="_blank" title="@preparedlegal" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal?refer=embed">@preparedlegal</a> <a title="legaldocumentassistant" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legaldocumentassistant?refer=embed">#LegalDocumentAssistant</a> preparation, <a title="courtfiling" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/courtfiling?refer=embed">#courtfiling</a> <a target="_blank" title="&#9836; Lazy Sunday - Official Sound Studio" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/Lazy-Sunday-6756879114637967368?refer=embed">&#9836; Lazy Sunday - Official Sound Studio</a></section></blockquote></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Our Office: The View From Here]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/our-office-the-view-from-here]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/our-office-the-view-from-here#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 06 Feb 2023 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/our-office-the-view-from-here</guid><description><![CDATA[@preparedlegal #preparedlegal #office ♬ original sound - Prepared Legal Corp. ⚖️ [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div id="589337154199161392" align="center" style="width: 100%; overflow-y: hidden;" class="wcustomhtml"><blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal/video/6870291953376857349" data-video-id="6870291953376857349" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"><section><a target="_blank" title="@preparedlegal" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal?refer=embed">@preparedlegal</a> <a title="preparedlegal" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/preparedlegal?refer=embed">#preparedlegal</a> <a title="office" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/office?refer=embed">#office</a> <a target="_blank" title="&#9836; original sound - Prepared Legal Corp. &#9878;&#65039;" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-6870291898737625861?refer=embed">&#9836; original sound - Prepared Legal Corp. &#9878;&#65039;</a></section></blockquote></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Domestic Violence Awareness]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/domestic-violence-awareness]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/domestic-violence-awareness#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 02 Mar 2022 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/domestic-violence-awareness</guid><description><![CDATA[@preparedlegal @Fathers_Do_Matter @Fathers_Do_Matter_ #accesstojustice #domesticviolenceawareness #legalaccess ♬ original sound - Prepared Legal Corp. ⚖️ [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div id="675826716576853506" align="center" style="width: 100%; overflow-y: hidden;" class="wcustomhtml"><blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal/video/7070697712454438190" data-video-id="7070697712454438190" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"><section><a target="_blank" title="@preparedlegal" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@preparedlegal?refer=embed">@preparedlegal</a> @Fathers_Do_Matter @Fathers_Do_Matter_ <a title="accesstojustice" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/accesstojustice?refer=embed">#accesstojustice</a> <a title="domesticviolenceawareness" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/domesticviolenceawareness?refer=embed">#domesticviolenceawareness</a> <a title="legalaccess" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/legalaccess?refer=embed">#legalaccess</a> <a target="_blank" title="&#9836; original sound - Prepared Legal Corp. &#9878;&#65039;" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7070697730775108398?refer=embed">&#9836; original sound - Prepared Legal Corp. &#9878;&#65039;</a></section></blockquote></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[What Are Self-Help Services?]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/what-are-self-help-services]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/what-are-self-help-services#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Sat, 31 Jul 2021 17:36:10 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[CA Legal Revolution]]></category><category><![CDATA[Client Resources]]></category><category><![CDATA[LDA | Legal Document Assistant]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><category><![CDATA[Trends & Updates]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/what-are-self-help-services</guid><description><![CDATA[Kinds of services that a Legal Document Assistant (LDA) can perform for you:We can perform the following self-help services for you in connection with a legal matter in which you are representing yourself:We can type or otherwise complete,&nbsp;as you specifically direct, legal documents that you have selected;We can provide you general published factual legal information that has been written or approved by an attorney, to help you represent yourself;We can provide you published legal documents [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><font size="2"><strong><em>Kinds of services that a Legal Document Assistant (LDA) can perform for you:</em></strong></font><br /><font size="4">We can perform the following self-help services for you in connection with a legal matter in which you are representing yourself:</font><ul><li><font size="4">We can type or otherwise complete,&nbsp;<em>as you specifically direct</em>, legal documents that you have selected;</font></li><li><font size="4">We can provide you general published factual legal information that has been written or approved by an attorney, to help you represent yourself;</font></li><li><font size="4">We can provide you published legal documents;</font></li><li><font size="4">We can file and serve legal forms and documents as you specifically direct;</font></li><li><font size="4">We can work in conjunction with your lawyer to provide unbundled&nbsp;legal services.&nbsp;</font>&#8203;</li></ul><font>&nbsp;</font><br /><font size="4">These are the&nbsp;<strong>only&nbsp;</strong>kinds of services that Legal Document Assistants can perform for you.&nbsp; If you need additional services are needed beyond the scope of services we are able to provide, we can refer&nbsp;you to&nbsp; an attorney.</font><br /><font size="4">&nbsp;</font><br /><font size="4"><strong><em>Kinds of services that an Legal Document Assistants (LDAs) cannot perform for you</em>:</strong></font><br /><span><font size="4">LDAs&nbsp;<em>cannot&nbsp;</em>represent anyone in court, cannot provide advice about legal rights or the law, nor can LDAs select legal forms. Fortunately, Court websites have document packets with most commonly used legal documents free to download.&nbsp;<em>Only an attorney can provide legal advice.</em></font></span><br /><br /><font size="4">Services are exclusively&nbsp;for Pro Per litigants&nbsp;representing who are themselves in a legal matter and the self-help service relates to that legal matter.&nbsp;<br />&nbsp;</font><br /><strong><font size="4">This firm&nbsp;<em>cannot&nbsp;</em>and&nbsp;<em>will not</em>&nbsp;engage in the practice of law.</font></strong><br /><font size="4">This means that we cannot give you any kind of&nbsp;<u>advice</u>,&nbsp;<u>explanation</u>, opinion or recommendation about possible&nbsp;<u>legal rights</u>,&nbsp;<u>remedies</u>,&nbsp;<u>defenses</u>,&nbsp;<u>strategies</u>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<u>options that you may have</u>. We cannot give you any advice, explanation, opinion or recommendation regarding&nbsp;<u>selection of forms</u>.</font><br /><br /><span><font size="4">It can be difficult deciphering</font></span><span><font size="4">&nbsp;what legal advice is. Clients regularly&nbsp;ask legal questions not understanding they are putting&nbsp;the LDA in a compromising&nbsp;position.&nbsp;<br /><strong>Questions related to:</strong></font></span><ul><li><em><font size="4">What you should do;</font></em></li><li><em><font size="4">What your&nbsp;options are;</font></em></li><li><em><font size="4">What's legally required of you;</font></em></li><li><em><font size="4">What are your legal obligations;</font></em></li><li><em><font size="4">What are the other party's legal obligations;</font></em></li><li><em><font size="4">If a law/procedure is applicable to your case;</font></em></li><li><font size="4"><em>Any&nbsp;</em><em>explanations of your rights</em></font></li><li><font size="4"><em>Any explanation&nbsp;of the law;</em></font></li></ul><span><font size="4">are considered legal advice and should be discussed with an attorney.&nbsp;</font></span>&#8203;</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.preparedlegal.com/uploads/8/9/0/5/89056540/services-1_orig.png" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Similarities between LDAs and Paralegals]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/similarities-between-ldas-and-paralegals]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/similarities-between-ldas-and-paralegals#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jul 2021 00:40:25 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/similarities-between-ldas-and-paralegals</guid><description><![CDATA[&#8203;Legal Document Assistant (LDA) do not operate any differently than a Paralegal working under the supervision of an Attorney. Both can only render legal services at the specific direction of either the attorney or clients for the LDAs. Operating an LDA Business is invaluable because of the first-hand experience and practical training on the front lines of pro se litigation. Just like attorneys LDAs too learn through file rejections and amended pleadings.&nbsp;Heck, judges and clerks review [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">&#8203;Legal Document Assistant (LDA) do not operate any differently than a Paralegal working under the supervision of an Attorney. Both can only render legal services at the specific direction of either the attorney or clients for the LDAs. <br /><br />Operating an LDA Business is invaluable because of the first-hand experience and practical training on the front lines of pro se litigation. Just like attorneys LDAs too learn through file rejections and amended pleadings.&nbsp;Heck, judges and clerks review our work on a daily basis.&nbsp;<br /><br />Paralegal and LDA practice practical application of the law and both have a front row seat to the theoretical application of the law whether our clients be attorneys or in pro se litigants.&nbsp;<br /><br />It may not be common knowledge, but many of my regular clients are in fact attorneys/law firms who have one off family law cases and or who have overflow cases. This is the case for many of my LDA peers. Attorneys who see LDAs as competitors rather than potential business partners shut down revenue opportunities to render competent and affordable legal services.&nbsp;</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[How to work with a Legal Document Assistant (LDA)]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/how-to-work-with-a-legal-document-assistant-lda]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/how-to-work-with-a-legal-document-assistant-lda#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Thu, 01 Jul 2021 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[CA Legal Revolution]]></category><category><![CDATA[Client Resources]]></category><category><![CDATA[LDA | Legal Document Assistant]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/how-to-work-with-a-legal-document-assistant-lda</guid><description><![CDATA[Working with a Legal Document Assistant (LDA) is a collaborative process. Services are designed for individuals who are representing themselves (In Pro Per), who know what they want and just need the paperwork prepared. LDAs are Bonded &amp; Registered non-attorneys professionals dedicated to serving the public who are seeking self-help support.What services are included?Prepared Legal Corp. is a full-service document preparation boutique. Flat fee service includes preparation, copies, assembly, [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 51, 51)">Working with a Legal Document Assistant (LDA) is a collaborative process. Services are designed for individuals who are representing themselves (In Pro Per), who know what they want and just need the paperwork prepared. LDAs are Bonded &amp; Registered non-attorneys professionals dedicated to serving the public who are seeking self-help support.<br /><br /><strong>What services are included?</strong><br />Prepared Legal Corp. is a full-service document preparation boutique. Flat fee service includes preparation, copies, assembly, serving the other party by mail, and court filing. Regular updates are provided via email as your case progresses. Professional and efficient legal document preparation and processing assistance at your specific direction.<br /><br /><strong>Will I need an attorney?</strong><br />Simple cases where parties are in agreement and working cooperatively do not typically need an attorney. Whenever possible, it's best to consult an attorney before taking any legal action. An attorney may become necessary if a dispute arises. </span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Should You Register As A Legal Document Assistant (LDA)?]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/should-you-register-as-a-legal-document-assistant-lda]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/should-you-register-as-a-legal-document-assistant-lda#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 28 Jun 2021 16:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Biz Basics]]></category><category><![CDATA[CA Legal Revolution]]></category><category><![CDATA[LDA | Legal Document Assistant]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><category><![CDATA[Trends & Updates]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/should-you-register-as-a-legal-document-assistant-lda</guid><description><![CDATA[&nbsp;Are you well organized, detail oriented, self directed? Do you enjoys working with the public?Then becoming an LDA might be right for you.Do you offer Paralegal services directly to the public? Do you fill out documents for compensation?&nbsp;If you offer or&nbsp;are contemplating providing document preparation services directly to the public&nbsp;for compensation&nbsp;without the supervision of an attorney, you&nbsp;may&nbsp;be required to register as a Legal Document Assistant, according [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><font size="3">&nbsp;<strong>Are you well organized, detail oriented, self directed? Do you enjoys working with the public?</strong><br />Then becoming an LDA might be right for you.<br /><br /><strong>Do you offer Paralegal services directly to the public? Do you fill out documents for compensation?&nbsp;</strong><br />If you offer or&nbsp;are contemplating providing document preparation services directly to the public&nbsp;<em><strong>for compensation</strong></em>&nbsp;without the supervision of an attorney, you&nbsp;<em>may&nbsp;</em>be required to register as a Legal Document Assistant, according to&nbsp;<strong>California Business &amp; Professions Code&nbsp;</strong><strong>&sect;&nbsp;6400, et seq.</strong><br /><br /><strong><a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=BPC&amp;sectionNum=6411." target="_blank">Bus &amp; Professions Code</a>&nbsp;<a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=BPC&amp;sectionNum=6411." target="_blank">&sect;</a>&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=BPC&amp;sectionNum=6400" target="_blank">6400(c)(1)</a>&nbsp;Any person who &ldquo;<em>provides, or assists in providing, or offers to provide, or offers to assist in providing,&nbsp;<strong>for compensation</strong>, any&nbsp;self-help service&nbsp;to a member of the public who is representing himself or herself in a&nbsp;legal matter, or who holds himself or herself out as someone who offers that service or has that authority. This paragraph does not apply to any individual whose assistance consists merely of secretarial or receptionist services."</em><br /><br />Making that decision to walk down this career pathway requires more than just adherence to BPC&nbsp;<a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=BPC&amp;sectionNum=6400" target="_blank"><strong>&sect;</strong>&nbsp;6400</a>, et seq., it requires a commitment and a belief in oneself to take on challenges of not only the legal industry, but also working with California courts that are&nbsp;<a href="http://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/search?t=budget" target="_blank">severely underfunded</a>.&nbsp;</font></div>  <blockquote><strong><em></em></strong><em><font size="2">Chronic underfunding of the courts unfairly affects members of the public seeking their day in court. Trial courts receive a little more than a penny for every general fund tax dollar, and in the past the judicial branch has had funds swept to support the state budget during times of crisis. Now the courts have an ongoing funding crisis, new laws are added annually, there are more complex cases, but there is no stable funding solution for the judicial branch and the people we all serve</font></em><strong><em><font size="2">.&nbsp;</font></em></strong><font color="#555555"><font size="2"><strong>-</strong>&nbsp;</font><font size="3">&nbsp;</font></font><strong><span style="color:rgb(27, 27, 27)">Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye</span></strong></blockquote>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-medium " style="padding-top:5px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:10px;text-align:left"> <a> <img src="https://www.preparedlegal.com/uploads/8/9/0/5/89056540/published/updated-wafm-funding-5bde8d36-05cd-441d-aab7-7d3273a796e4-prv-orig.jpg?1624548825" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%">Before the judicial branch implemented the Workload-based Allocation and Funding Methodology (2013-14, left) some trial courts were underfunded by as much as 60%. By 2017-18 (right), the new formula had helped equalize funding gaps. SOURCE: The Trial Court Funding Formula, Explained by Merrill Balassone</div> </div></div>  <blockquote><font size="2"><strong><em>In the past year, 55 percent of Californians at all income levels experienced at least one civil legal problem in their household, yet nearly 70 percent of them received no legal assistance. Fewer than 1 in 3 Californians sought legal assistance to address their problems.</em></strong><span>&nbsp;-&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.calbar.ca.gov/Access-to-Justice/Initiatives/California-Justice-Gap-Study" target="_blank">California Justice Gap Study: Measuring the Unmet Civil Legal Needs of Californians.</a></font></blockquote>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:0px;text-align:right"> <a> <img src="https://www.preparedlegal.com/uploads/8/9/0/5/89056540/percent-of-ca-experience-problem-orig_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%">SOURCE: California Justice Gap Study Executive Report</div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><font size="3">&#8203;The Legal Document Assistant (LDA) profession was bore from community based legal advocacy. In fact, the LDA profession&nbsp;is an innovation&nbsp;in the legal services industry which&nbsp;</font><font size="3">enhances the delivery of, and access to, legal services</font><span>.&nbsp;</span><font size="3">In some communities throughout California LDAs are the only legal resource. Becoming an LDA is privilege which should not be taken lightly.&nbsp;</font><font size="3">We serve members of the public who aren't able to hire a lawyer, while alleviating the demand on limited court resources. Legal Document Assistants are an affordable non-attorney professional alternative for members of the public facing a legal problems, but can't afford to hire an attorney.</font></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:0px;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.preparedlegal.com/uploads/8/9/0/5/89056540/percent-of-problems-only-nonlegal-help-orig_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%">SOURCE: California Justice Gap Study Executive Report </div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><font size="3">The&nbsp;<a href="http://www.calbar.ca.gov/Access-to-Justice/Initiatives/California-Justice-Gap-Study" target="_blank">Justice Gap Study Executive Report</a>&nbsp;also tells us the gap in knowledge is the one of the key issues in access to justice. As an LDA&nbsp;One of the biggest challenges of working with the self-representing&nbsp;litigants, is they do not realize their questions are legal questions which can or should only be answered by an attorney. While we can provide litigants self-help resources or sure the litigant an research the answer themselves, but legal research is a art in of of itself which is a two semester program taught in a paralegal program. This is a systemic civics issue that transcendent&nbsp;socio-economic condition. How does the constitutional right to redress serve the people if they cannot navigate the legal system without paying thousands in attorney fees? Fortunately, the California State Bar is presently working on address this very issues.&nbsp;</font>&#8203;</div>  <blockquote><ul><li><em><strong><font size="2">The California Justice Gap Survey revealed that a significant portion of the justice gap in California is caused by a lack of knowledge about the civil legal system.</font></strong></em></li><li><em><strong><font size="2">&#8203;</font></strong></em><font size="2"><strong><em>Most do not recognize the legal aspects of these problems;&nbsp;if they do recognize those aspects, many do not know how to access the appropriate resources to address them</em><em>.</em></strong></font>&#8203;&nbsp;<font size="2"><strong>&#8203;</strong>-&nbsp;<a href="http://www.calbar.ca.gov/Access-to-Justice/Initiatives/California-Justice-Gap-Study" target="_blank">California Justice Gap Study: Measuring the Unmet Civil Legal Needs of Californians.</a></font></li></ul></blockquote>  <div class="paragraph"><font size="3">The Legal Document Assistant&nbsp;profession, while challenging, can be very rewarding.&nbsp;</font><font size="3">LDAs close the legal resource gap that often exists in our judicial system. Even if we can't provide legal advice, at minimum we help pro se litigants identify that they have a legal issue. We provide affordable legal services bridging accessibility.&nbsp;<strong>Are you ready to become part of the legal justice solution?</strong></font></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Naming Your LDA Business]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/naming-your-lda-business]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/naming-your-lda-business#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 25 Jun 2021 20:59:49 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/naming-your-lda-business</guid><description><![CDATA[BPC 6411.(f)&nbsp; Use in the person&rsquo;s business name or advertising the words &ldquo;legal aid,&rdquo; &ldquo;legal services,&rdquo; or any similar term that has the capacity, tendency, or likelihood to mislead members of the public about that person&rsquo;s status as a nonprofit corporation or governmentally supported organization offering legal services without charge to indigent people, or employing licensees of the State Bar to provide those services.https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/ [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><span style="color:rgb(51, 51, 51)">BPC </span><a>6411.</a><span style="color:rgb(51, 51, 51)">(f)&nbsp; Use in the person&rsquo;s business name or advertising the words &ldquo;<strong>legal aid</strong>,&rdquo; &ldquo;<strong>legal services</strong>,&rdquo; or any similar term that has the capacity, tendency, or likelihood to mislead members of the public about that person&rsquo;s status as a nonprofit corporation or governmentally supported organization offering legal services without charge to indigent people, or employing licensees of the State Bar to provide those services.</span><br /><a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=BPC&amp;sectionNum=6411." target="_blank">https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=BPC&amp;sectionNum=6411.&#8203;</a><br /><br /><span><span style="color:rgb(34, 34, 34)"><strong>BPC 6159.&nbsp; (using legal aid)</strong> </span><a href="https://law.justia.com/codes/california/2020/code-bpc/division-3/chapter-4/article-9-6/section-6159-52/#:~:text=6159.52.%C2%A0%C2%A0,January%201%2C%202010.)"><span style="color:rgb(17, 85, 204)">https://law.justia.com/codes/california/2020/code-bpc/division-3/chapter-4/article-9-6/section-6159-52/#:~:text=6159.52.%C2%A0%C2%A0,January%201%2C%202010.)</span></a></span><br /><span><span style="color:rgb(34, 34, 34)">It is unlawful for any person or organization to use the term &ldquo;legal aid,&rdquo; &ldquo;legal aide,&rdquo; or any confusingly similar name in any firm name, trade name, fictitious business name, or any other designation, or on any advertisement, letterhead, business card, or sign, unless the person or organization is a legal aid organization subject to fair use principles for nominative, descriptive, or noncommercial use</span><span style="color:rgb(34, 34, 34)">. </span><span style="color:rgb(34, 34, 34)">(Added by Stats. 2009, Ch. 457, Sec. 3. (AB 590) Effective January 1, 2010.)</span></span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(17, 17, 17)">BPC 6450.&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong>(a)&nbsp;&ldquo;<strong>Paralegal</strong>&rdquo; means a person who holds himself or herself out to be a paralegal, who is qualified by education, training, or work experience, who either contracts with or is employed by an attorney, law firm, corporation, governmental agency, or other entity, and who performs substantial legal work under the direction and supervision of an active member of the State Bar of California, as defined in Section 6060, or an attorney practicing law in the federal courts of this state, that has been specifically delegated by the attorney to him or her. Tasks performed by a paralegal include, but are not limited to, case planning, development, and management; legal research; interviewing clients; fact gathering and retrieving information; drafting and analyzing legal documents; collecting, compiling, and utilizing technical information to make an independent decision and recommendation to the supervising attorney; and representing clients before a state or federal administrative agency if that representation is permitted by statute, court rule, or administrative rule or regulation.<br />&#8203;<a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=6450.&amp;lawCode=BPC" target="_blank">https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=6450.&amp;lawCode=BPC</a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[The California State Bar Paraprofessional Program Working Group (CPPWG): Why It's Important for LDAs]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/the-california-paraprofessional-program-working-group-cppwg-why-its-important-for-ldas]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/the-california-paraprofessional-program-working-group-cppwg-why-its-important-for-ldas#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Thu, 24 Jun 2021 15:26:06 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[CA Legal Revolution]]></category><category><![CDATA[LDA | Legal Document Assistant]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><category><![CDATA[Trends & Updates]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/the-california-paraprofessional-program-working-group-cppwg-why-its-important-for-ldas</guid><description><![CDATA[The&nbsp;California Paraprofessional Program Working Group&nbsp;(CPPWG) is one of the many working groups established pursuant to the&nbsp;ATILS Taskforce&nbsp;(Task Force on Access Through Innovation of Legal Services) recommendations (see&nbsp;Final Report and Recommendations).&#8203;One of the more notable mandates the ATILS Taskforce was charged with was&nbsp; the review of, "the prohibitions against unauthorized practice of law (UPL) as well as the impact of those prohibitions on access to  [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><font>The&nbsp;California Paraprofessional Program Working Group</font><font>&nbsp;(CPPWG) is o</font>ne of the many working groups established pursuant to the&nbsp;<strong>ATILS Taskforce</strong>&nbsp;(Task Force on Access Through Innovation of Legal Services) recommendations (see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.calbar.ca.gov/Portals/0/documents/publicComment/ATILS-Final-Report.pdf">Final Report and Recommendations</a>).<br />&#8203;<br />One of the more notable mandates the ATILS Taskforce was charged with was&nbsp; the review of, "<span><font color="#3E3E3E"><strong><em>the prohibitions against unauthorized practice of law (UPL) as well as the impact of those prohibitions on access to legal services</em>.</strong>"&nbsp;</font></span>This directly impact our profession as LDAs because their findings were to recommend the consideration of implementation of the new paraprofessional licensing program. It was at this juncture where LDAs should have had a voice in the outcome of these recommendations. Instead of the development of a new non-attorney professional, rather the expansion of our current profession as LDAs. But, that ship has long since sailed. The ATILS Taskforce final report was adopted in March 2020.<br /><strong><br />It is imperative that LDAs are involved in not just the Paraprofessional Working Group, but the other ancillary working groups, subcommittees and taskforces.&nbsp;</strong><br /><font><br />Here's a link to the&nbsp;</font><span>California Paraprofessional Program Working Group<br /></span><a href="http://www.calbar.ca.gov/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Committees/Closing-the-Justice-Gap-Working-Group">http://www.calbar.ca.gov/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Committees/California-Paraprofessional-Program-Working-Group</a>&nbsp;for more details.</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Updated LDA Contract Provision 7]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/updated-lda-contract-provision-7]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/updated-lda-contract-provision-7#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2021 22:59:51 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Biz Basics]]></category><category><![CDATA[LDA | Legal Document Assistant]]></category><category><![CDATA[Small Biz Resources]]></category><category><![CDATA[Trends & Updates]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/updated-lda-contract-provision-7</guid><description><![CDATA[Effective January 1, 2016.&nbsp;BPC &sect;6402.&nbsp; our registration requirement has changed. We are no longer required to register in each count where we perform business.We can now offer business in&nbsp;ANY&nbsp;county throughout California and are only required to register in the county&nbsp;in which our principal place of business is located, and in which we maintain a branch office.&nbsp;"A legal document assistant or unlawful detainer assistant shall be registered pursuant to this chapt [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><font>Effective January 1, 2016.&nbsp;<a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=BPC&amp;sectionNum=6402." target="_blank">BPC &sect;6402.</a>&nbsp; our registration requirement has changed. We are no longer required to register in each count where we perform business.</font><br /><font>We can now offer business in&nbsp;<strong>ANY</strong>&nbsp;county throughout California and are only required to register in the county&nbsp;in which our principal place of business is located, and in which we maintain a branch office.&nbsp;</font><br /><br /><em><font>"A legal document assistant or unlawful detainer assistant shall be registered pursuant to this chapter by the county clerk in the county in which their principal place of business is located, and in which they maintain a branch office..."</font></em><br /><br /><font>To date, the Department of Consumer Affairs has yet to update our statutory contract to conform with BPC &sect;6402.&nbsp;</font><br />&#8203;<br /><font><strong>Current Contract</strong></font><br /><font>7. As required by law, I have filed a bond or made a cash deposit and have registered as a legal document assistant in each county where I will perform services on your behalf.</font><br /><font><strong>Proposed Revision</strong></font><br /><font>7. As required by law, I have filed a bond or made a cash deposit and have registered as a legal document assistant in the county where my principal place of business is located, and in any counties in which this business maintains a branch office.</font><br /><a href="https://govt.westlaw.com/calregs/Document/I3356854BB1E74FDB8181ECEA71C00C39?viewType=FullText&amp;originationContext=documenttoc&amp;transitionType=CategoryPageItem&amp;contextData=(sc.Default)" target="_blank"><font>https://govt.westlaw.com/calregs/Document/I3356854BB1E74FDB8181ECEA71C00C39?viewType=FullText&amp;originationContext=documenttoc&amp;transitionType=CategoryPageItem&amp;contextData=(sc.Default)</font></a></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.preparedlegal.com/uploads/8/9/0/5/89056540/howtocontract-750xx4288-2417-0-49_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Notarize Online]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/notarize-online]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/notarize-online#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2021 22:47:44 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/notarize-online</guid><description><![CDATA[&#8203;Notarize your documents anywhere, any time!  &#8203;Notarizing&nbsp;online will change your life and&nbsp;more importantly&nbsp;how you do business!&nbsp;&nbsp;I recently started eNotarizing Marital Settlement Agreements&nbsp;with Notary Live. Clients love it, especially with COVID restrictions. The fee is $25 per signature. If both signers are in the same place they can sign during the same session for $30. There is even a feature to have clients pay directly. There are no monthly fees!  [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2 class="wsite-content-title">&#8203;Notarize your documents anywhere, any time!</h2>  <div class="paragraph">&#8203;Notarizing&nbsp;<font><span style="color:rgb(34, 34, 34)">online will change your life and&nbsp;more importantly&nbsp;how you do business!&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></font><br /><br /><font><font color="#222222">I recently started eNotarizing Marital Settlement Agreements&nbsp;with Notary Live. Clients love it, especially with COVID restrictions. The fee is $25 per signature. If both signers are in the same place they can sign during the same session for $30. There is even a feature to have clients pay directly. There are no monthly fees! <em>Nada, Zip, Zilch</em>. The notarized document comes right back to you so there's no tracking down docs from clients.&nbsp;<br /><br />Enjoy!</font></font><br /><br /></div>  <div style="text-align:center;"><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div> <a class="wsite-button wsite-button-small wsite-button-normal" href="https://notarylive.com/#preparedlegal" target="_blank"> <span class="wsite-button-inner">Start using NotaryLIve</span> </a> <div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.preparedlegal.com/uploads/8/9/0/5/89056540/notarizeoverview-videocall_orig.webp" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[​Legal Document Assistant (LDA) vs. Paralegal: What's the difference?]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/legal-document-assistant-lda-vs-paralegal-whats-the-difference]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/legal-document-assistant-lda-vs-paralegal-whats-the-difference#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Thu, 10 Sep 2020 21:55:58 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/legal-document-assistant-lda-vs-paralegal-whats-the-difference</guid><description><![CDATA[The major difference is Paralegals can only perform legal services for attorneys whereas a Legal Document Assistant can perform limited self-help legal services for the general public, like yourself.&nbsp;Paralegals:In the state of California, a "Paralegal" is a legal professional, who is qualified by education, training, or work experience, who performs substantial legal work under the direction and supervision of an attorney.&nbsp;Legal Document Assistants (LDAs):Formerly known as "Independent [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">The major difference is Paralegals can <em>only </em>perform legal services for attorneys whereas a Legal Document Assistant can perform limited self-help legal services for the general public, like yourself.<br />&nbsp;<br /><strong>Paralegals:</strong><br />In the state of California, a "Paralegal" is a legal professional, who is qualified by education, training, or work experience, <u>who performs</u> substantial legal work <u>under the direction and supervision of an attorney</u>.<br />&nbsp;<br /><strong>Legal Document Assistants (LDAs):</strong><br />Formerly known as "Independent Paralegals," Legal Document Assistants are bonded and registered legal professionals, who are qualified by education, training, or work experience, to <u>provides limited legal services for self-representing litigants</u>. LDAs can provide self-help services at clients' specific direction.<br /></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Legal Help to Protect and Grow Your Business]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/legal-help-to-protect-and-grow-your-business]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/legal-help-to-protect-and-grow-your-business#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2020 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Biz Basics]]></category><category><![CDATA[Legal Access]]></category><category><![CDATA[Small Biz Resources]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.preparedlegal.com/blog/legal-help-to-protect-and-grow-your-business</guid><description><![CDATA[ 					 						 						 						 						 							#wsite-video-container-958949538883457958{ 								background: url(//www.weebly.com/uploads/b/89056540-671966035269250306/p84_485.jpg); 							}  							#video-iframe-958949538883457958{ 								background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/videojs/play-icon.png?1587084981); 							}  							#wsite-video-container-958949538883457958, #video-iframe-958949538883457958{ 								background-repeat: no-repeat; 								background-position:center; 							}   [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="wsite-video"><div title="Video: p84_485.mp4" class="wsite-video-wrapper wsite-video-height-282 wsite-video-align-center"> 					<div id="wsite-video-container-958949538883457958" class="wsite-video-container" style="margin: 0px 0 0px 0;"> 						<iframe allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" id="video-iframe-958949538883457958" 							src="about:blank"> 						</iframe> 						 						<style> 							#wsite-video-container-958949538883457958{ 								background: url(//www.weebly.com/uploads/b/89056540-671966035269250306/p84_485.jpg); 							}  							#video-iframe-958949538883457958{ 								background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/videojs/play-icon.png?1587084981); 							}  							#wsite-video-container-958949538883457958, #video-iframe-958949538883457958{ 								background-repeat: no-repeat; 								background-position:center; 							}  							@media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), 								only screen and (        min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), 								only screen and (                min-resolution: 192dpi), 								only screen and (                min-resolution: 2dppx) { 									#video-iframe-958949538883457958{ 										background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/videojs/@2x/play-icon.png?1587084981); 										background-repeat: no-repeat; 										background-position:center; 										background-size: 70px 70px; 									} 							} 						</style> 					</div> 				</div></div>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">What&rsquo;s your split? The biggest motivator for going into business for yourself is getting 100% of sales. The flip side is you also take 100% of the risk. Wouldn&rsquo;t it be great to be able to have an attorney by your side along the way?&nbsp;<br /><br />By investing in a&nbsp;<a href="https://agrijalva.wearelegalshield.com/" target="_blank" style="">LegalShield Small Business Plan</a>&nbsp;I make calculated business decisions avoiding unnecessary risk. Custom business legal plans starting at $39.00 per month&nbsp;give you access to a huge variety of legal services to help you rest easy knowing you&rsquo;re protected. Speak to a lawyer as often as you&rsquo;d like, get contracts &amp; documents reviewed before you sign and much more.&nbsp;Protect and grow your business with a LegalShield Small Business Plan.<br /></div>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>