Pioneers of Progress: Reflections on Colorado’s First Year of LLPs

In a bold step to bridge Colorado’s justice gap, the Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP) program was launched to expand access to affordable legal representation. As the program reaches its first anniversary, Modern Family Law hosted a powerful LinkedIn Live panel featuring four trailblazing LLPs—each part of the inaugural wave bringing this groundbreaking initiative to life. Hosted by Janet Price, LLP at Modern Family Law, the discussion featured Alexia Smith (Altitude Law Group), Tara Adkins (Burnham Law), and Jenni Wurtz (Modern Family Law). Together, they offered a candid and compelling look at what it truly means to be on the front lines of change in family law.

Meet The Panel

Watch The Full Discussion

Want to hear directly from the trailblazers? Watch the full LinkedIn Live panel as Janet Price leads a powerful conversation with three of Colorado’s pioneering LLPs. From overcoming challenges to shaping the future of family law, this candid and inspiring discussion offers valuable insight into what it means to expand access to justice, one client at a time. Whether you’re a legal professional, a prospective LLP, or simply curious about the program, this is a must-watch.

Top Insights And Reflections From The Panel

The panel discussion highlighted several key insights and takeaways, offering a comprehensive look at the LLP program’s development, impact, and future in Colorado.

1. A Calling to Serve

Each panelist shared a deep-rooted desire to help families through legal challenges. Whether it was years of paralegal experience, a background in child advocacy, or a desire to practice law without the full burden of law school, all three LLPs saw the program as a unique and meaningful path to deliver justice to those who need it most.

2. Facing Misconceptions Head-On

From being dismissed as “just a paralegal” to encountering confusion from judges and clients alike, LLPs continue to battle misunderstandings about their role. Yet, each panelist emphasized the importance of clear communication, client education, and professionalism in overcoming skepticism and earning trust.

3. Confidence is Key

Skepticism can be contagious—but so can confidence. The LLPs agreed that staying grounded in their training, experience, and the significance of their licensure helps them push past doubt and prove their value daily.

4. Clarifying Scope and Setting Expectations

Panelists emphasized the need to explain their scope of practice early and often. From engagement agreements to pre-hearing reminders, setting boundaries helps manage expectations and strengthens trust.

5. Support Systems Matter

Whether it’s firm attorneys backing them up or the wider LLP community on LinkedIn and at events, the importance of mentorship and mutual support came through loud and clear.

6. Ongoing Education is a Must

CLEs, weekly case law reading, and personal study guides were just a few ways LLPs keep their legal knowledge sharp. Staying informed isn’t optional—it’s essential.

7. The Road Ahead: Scope, Expansion, and Advocacy

Looking to the future, panelists hope for clearer rules, expanded scopes—especially around witness examination—and potential involvement in underserved areas like dependency and neglect cases. They called for continued judicial support and public education to reinforce the program’s legitimacy.

Conclusion

Colorado’s LLP program is more than a policy shift—it’s a movement. With fierce dedication and resilience, professionals like Alexia, Tara, and Jenni are proving that expanding access to justice is both possible and powerful. Their experiences highlight the importance of perseverance, education, and community in shaping the next chapter of family law.

Modern Family Law extends our heartfelt thanks to our panelists and attendees for their valuable insights and engagement. Together, we are building a more inclusive legal system—one client, one case, and one LLP at a time.