That the LLC form is really 1 page and 1 follow-up form. This will cost < $100 in total if you spend 10 minutes googling how to do it. (I'm not a lawyer, but this is what I know)

1. LLC FAQ http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/llc/llc_faq.htm

2. LLC Form (1 pg) http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/bpd_forms.htm (search for LLC-1) — $70

When you get approved, you will need to submit a Statement of Information which costs $20.

3. If you don't make money you can waive the first year's min. franchise tax of $800.

4. Lawyers will usually help you for free if you are starting a legit business, but it will be costly (we just got a bill for $10k for starting up our s-corp).

5. Good luck!