Colorado LLP Program: One Year of Progress & Impact

To celebrate the first anniversary of Colorado’s Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP) program, Modern Family Law hosted a LinkedIn Live panel featuring several trailblazing LLPs. These professionals shared honest reflections about the program’s impact, challenges, and the unique role they play in bridging access to family law. From courtroom breakthroughs to personal growth, this dynamic discussion highlights the evolution of a profession still in its infancy but already making a significant difference.

Meet The Panel

Watch The Full Discussion

If you’re curious about how Colorado’s LLP program is reshaping access to family law and want to hear directly from the professionals making it happen, this is a must-watch. Moderated by Kris Freeman, LLP, this honest and inspiring panel explores what it’s really been like to practice as a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional during the program’s first year.

From personal growth and courtroom wins to bridging the justice gap for underserved clients, these voices offer firsthand insight into the challenges, triumphs, and future of the LLP movement.

Top Insights From The Panel

Throughout the discussion, the panelists shared valuable insights into their journeys as pioneers of the ColoradoLLP program. Here’s a closer look at the key takeaways from the conversation:

1. The Gap Is Real, And LLPs Are Filling It
   “People assume forms are easy, but to a pro se litigant, it’s life-changing,” explained Meghan Flanagan. Several panelists underscored the confusion many clients face trying to navigate family court alone. LLPs are helping simplify the process for those who don’t need full litigation but do need support.

2. Document Preparation Is  A Lifeline
   “There’s a difference between having the forms and knowing what to do with them,” Selena Selinas stated. Whether it’s a parenting plan or a separation agreement, the panel discussed how incomplete or incorrect forms often send people back to court, something LLPs can help prevent.

3. Bridging Access To Justice
   “I’ve seen clients come from domestic violence situations who couldn’t afford representation until now,” Ashlyn Yoder brings to light. Ashlyn’s work with Colorado Legal Services illustrated how LLPs are uniquely positioned to serve vulnerable clients who fall into the justice gap.

4. From Paralegal To LLP: A Role Reimagined
   “We’ve created a vacuum—experienced paralegals are now LLPs, and that’s changing the dynamic,” Kris Freeman explained. Many LLPs still wear two hats, serving as both paralegals and LLPs. The panel discussed the difficulty and necessity of redefining expectations internally and externally.

5. Growing Awareness Remains A Challenge
   “Most people still don’t know what an LLP is even inside the legal community,” said Jenni Wurtz. From judges to court staff to clients, the LLP role is still misunderstood. Panelists stressed the need for continued education and visibility.

6. The LLP Program Represents…
   A few one-word reflections from the panel when asked what the LLP program represents after one year:
   → Hope
   → Change
   → Progress
   → Challenging
   → Historic

Conclusion

The first year of the LLP program has been one of learning, impact, and evolution for both the professionals leading the way and the clients who now have access to services they never thought possible. As the program matures, these LLPs remain committed to advocating for broader awareness, training, and respect. As Kris Freeman shared in closing, “We’re just getting started and the best is yet to come.”