What is an LLLT?

A Limited License Legal Technician (LLLT) is a legal professional licensed by the Washington State Supreme Court to practice family law with a limited scope. LLLTs are not lawyers.

With the full support of the Washington State Supreme Court, the LLLT program was created by the Washington State Bar Association in 2012 to provide access to justice for those who cannot afford an attorney but may not qualify for pro bono legal aid.

In order to be licensed, LLLTs are held to a very high legal standard, and in order to be licensed, they are required to have a combination of education and experience. They are also required to pass several examinations, including the LLLT Bar Exam, conducted by the Washington State Bar Association.

LLLTs can help you:

  • Understand and navigate the court system.

  • Draft legal documents related to a family law matter.

  • Prepare for a court hearing or trial, as well as mediation or arbitration

  • Advocate for yourself by empowering you with the information you need to reach your legal goals.

How can an LLLT help me?


Can I afford an LLLT?

LLLTs offer personal licensed legal services to the public at a lower cost (on average, about 1/3 less) than an attorney.

Okay—you’re not a lawyer. Got it.
So, is an LLLT like a paralegal?

While paralegals and LLLTs perform similar tasks in the context of a family law case, there are also some pretty major differences between the two.

LEGAL ADVICE
Paralegal: ❌ Cannot provide legal advice
LLLT: ✅ Can advise on family law matters
INDEPENDENCE
Paralegal: ❌ Must work under an attorney
LLLT: ✅ Can work independently
DOCUMENTS
Paralegal: ✅ Prepares documents (supervised)
LLLT: ✅ Prepares & explains documents
CLIENT SUPPORT
Paralegal: Limited interaction
LLLT: Direct client guidance & support
COST
Paralegal: Lower hourly cost
LLLT: More than paralegal, less than attorney