Legal Document Assistant vs. Court Self-Help Center
California courts offer Self-Help Centers and Family Law Facilitators to assist unrepresented litigants. While these centers are a valuable free resource, they operate differently from a private Legal Document Assistant (LDA).
Court Self-Help Centers
Court self-help centers provide free legal information and help for people without lawyers. Check the individual court's current services:
- They assist both parties in a case and do not have an attorney-client relationship with you.
- The topics covered and methods of obtaining help vary by court.
- Court resources may include forms, explanations of procedures, workshops, or individual assistance, depending on the program.
- Confirm what the particular center can help with rather than assuming it completes, files, or handles an entire case.
Private Legal Document Assistants
ClearPath is a private business and charges for its services. Its role is different from a court program:
- Preparation is limited to client-selected documents at the client's specific direction.
- Confirm the exact documents and work included in the written agreement.
- Do not assume filing, recording, process service, notary work, or third-party charges are included in preparation.
- An LDA cannot provide legal advice, choose your forms, or represent you in court.
When to Use Which
You can consult official self-help resources to learn what free assistance is available and separately ask a private LDA about preparation you have already chosen. Neither a service description nor a price determines which legal option is right for you. Ask an attorney when you need advice. ClearPath is not a court self-help center and is not affiliated with the courts.
Sources & Authority
Information provided is for educational purposes based on primary sources. Research checked September 20, 2026. This is an editorial research record, not attorney review, legal advice, or a certification of compliance.