Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals in Colorado

LLPs & Colorado Family Law Cases

In 2024, Colorado introduced a new legal occupation designation known as the Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP). This licensure gives certified LLPs the ability to provide legal services in certain types of family law cases and expands the range of options clients have when it comes to divorce, child custody, and other family law matters. 

At The Harris Law Firm, we have three of the state’s first Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals who were sworn in as part of the inaugural class of LLPs in June 2024. As frontrunners in their field, our LLPs, who are also Paralegals, are now able to practice law in a limited capacity. 

We’re proud to offer another option for representation to our clients, but we know that many people still don’t know much about LLPs and what they do in Colorado. Here’s some information to help. 

What is a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP)?

Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals are a new legal occupation approved by the Colorado Supreme Court in 2023. The goal behind creating the LLP designation was to expand access to more affordable legal services to people with family law matters and to relieve pressure on busy family law courts, many of which are overwhelmed with an abundance of unrepresented parties. 

Like programs in states such as Oregon, Arizona, and Minnesota, Colorado’s LLP program gives litigants in family courts an option to access qualified legal support at a fraction of the cost of an attorney – similar to how nurse practitioners function in the medical field. 

You can find more information about LLPs from the Colorado Supreme Court here.

What Can Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals Do in Colorado?

Colorado’s Licensed Legal Paraprofessional program has various requirements to ensure LLPs have ample legal experience, meet character and fitness standards, and pass a six-hour examination. Those who meet the requirements and earn licensure can provide certain legal services traditionally offered only by attorneys. 

Under the Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure (CRCP 207.1), LLPs in Colorado can assist clients with the following family law matters:

• Divorce and legal separation
• Allocations or modifications of parental responsibility
• Paternity / parentage determinations
• Establishment or modification of child support or maintenance (alimony)
• Seeking, modifying, or terminating a civil protection order
• Legal name changes
• Requests for amended birth certificates for gender designation changes

There are certain limitations on the types of cases and issues that LLPs can handle, which are summarized in this Colorado Lawyer article.

Colorado Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals FAQ

How Do LLPs Differ From Attorneys?

While LLPs are not attorneys, they offer many of the same services within specific legal areas. Some key differences include:

• Scope of Practice: In Colorado, LLPs have a defined scope of practice limited to certain family law matters. They cannot handle criminal cases, complex litigation, or provide services outside their authorized areas like traditionally licensed attorneys can.
• Trial Procedures: LLPs can go with their clients to court, sit with their clients in the courtroom, advise their clients about evidence to introduce, and address the court when requested by the judicial officer.  They cannot question witnesses, however.
• Cost: LLPs typically charge lower fees than attorneys, making legal services more affordable for clients.
• Training and Education: LLPs receive specialized training focused on family law, as opposed to the broad curriculum studied by attorneys in law school. They must still complete rigorous coursework, gain practical experience, and pass licensing exams to ensure they are qualified.
• Regulation and Oversight: Like attorneys, LLPs are regulated by the state to ensure they adhere to professional and ethical standards specific to their occupation. Also like attorneys, they must complete continuing education to maintain their license and stay current with legal developments.

What Types of Cases Can LLPs Handle?

In Colorado, the scope of an LLP’s practice is limited to representing clients only in matters of family law, including cases involving:

• Divorce: LLPs can assist with the entire divorce process, from filing the initial paperwork to negotiating the division of assets and debts and addressing issues like spousal support.
• Child Custody and Visitation: LLPs can help you establish or modify child custody arrangements, ensuring that the best interests of the child are prioritized.
• Child Support: LLPs are equipped to calculate and negotiate child support agreements, as well as assist with modifications if circumstances change.
• Paternity: Establishing legal paternity is essential for issues related to child support and custody. LLPs can guide you through the process, including genetic testing and court filings.
• Modifications and Enforcement of Orders: If you need to change or enforce an existing court order regarding support, custody, or visitation, LLPs can help navigate the legal requirements and represent your interests.

What Are the Qualifications of an LLP?

LLPs undergo extensive training and must meet several requirements, including:

• Educational Background: Completion of a recognized paralegal program or equivalent legal education.
• Experience: Gaining practical experience in family law through internships, clerkships, or work as a paralegal.
• Licensing Exam: Passing a comprehensive exam that tests knowledge of family law, legal procedures, and ethical standards.
• Continuing Education: LLPs must engage in ongoing education to keep their knowledge and skills up to date with current laws and practices.

How Do I Know If My Case is Suitable for an LLP?

During an initial consultation, our team will evaluate your case to determine if it falls within the scope of what LLPs can handle. Factors considered include:

• Complexity of the Case: Cases that are relatively straightforward or involve parties who can communicate and compromise are more likely to be suitable for an LLP. Highly complex cases and those subject to considerable disputes might require an attorney’s help.  If a case will require certain expert witnesses or will require examination of witnesses that the client does not feel comfortable handling on their own, an attorney may be necessary.
• Type of Legal Matter: If your case involves areas like divorce, child custody, support, parental responsibility, protection orders, or name or gender designation changes, an LLP can typically provide effective representation.
• Client Preferences: Your comfort level and preference for working with an LLP versus an attorney should also be considered. Educating yourself about the role and responsibilities of an LLP can help you better determine when working with one is the right choice. 

Can an LLP Represent Me in Court?

Yes, LLPs are authorized to represent clients in court for specific family law matters. They are trained to:

• Prepare and Submit Legal Documents: LLPS can advise you regarding which forms and legal documents to file, can help you draft those documents, and can file those documents with the court on your behalf. 
• Provide Courtroom Guidance: When you go to court, LLPs can advise you on what to expect during court proceedings and how to present your case effectively. They can also attend the proceedings with you, sit with you, and advise you during the proceedings.
• Advocate on Your Behalf: If the court asks them to, LLPs can answer questions posed by the judicial officer and can address the court on your behalf. 

Have Questions About Family Law Representation? We Can Help.

At The Harris Law Firm, we’re proud to empower the individuals and families who come to us in times of need with the ability to choose the type of representation and level of support that helps them resolve their legal issues effectively and cost-efficiently. This may entail comprehensive counsel from one or more of our family lawyers, tax attorneys, or estate planning lawyers, or legal services provided by our Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals or through our LawYourWay ℠ program.

If you have questions about LLPs and whether working with one may be the best option for you, we’re happy to help. We serve clients statewide from office locations in Denver, Englewood, Boulder, and Colorado Springs, and invite you to discuss your needs during an initial consultation.

To speak with a member of our team, call (303) 622-5502 or contact us online.