Colorado Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals: Expanding Access to Family Law In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Amy Goscha is joined by Megan Flanagan, a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP), to discuss how Colorado’s LLP program is evolving and what it looks like in practice. They explore the role LLPs play in family law, recent changes expanding what LLPs can do in court, how law firms are integrating LLPs into their teams, and how the program is helping make legal guidance more accessible to people who may not be able to afford traditional attorney representation. Guest Information Megan Flanagan is a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional with more than 20 years of experience in family law, beginning her career as a paralegal. She was part of Colorado’s first class of LLPs and currently practices with Drexler Law Group in Colorado Springs. Megan handles family law matters within the LLP scope and works collaboratively with attorneys when cases involve issues outside that scope. Episode Highlights What a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional does – Understanding the role of an LLP, how it differs from a traditional paralegal, and what it means to have a limited license to practice law in Colorado family law matters. Making legal representation more accessible – How LLPs can help individuals who may not have the financial resources to retain an attorney but still need legal advice and guidance through the divorce or custody process. LLPs and law firm collaboration – How firms can use LLPs alongside attorneys, associates, and paralegals to make sure clients receive the right level of support depending on the complexity of their case. Recent courtroom rule changes – How expanded rules now allow LLPs to examine and cross-examine witnesses and introduce evidence, enabling them to take a more active role during hearings. Preparing LLPs for courtroom advocacy – Why training in evidence, objections, mock trials, continuing legal education, and mentorship has become increasingly important as the LLP role expands. Helping self-represented parties – How LLPs can assist people with understanding deadlines, financial disclosures, witnesses, exhibits, mediation, and the procedural steps required to effectively present their case. Settlement and mediation – Why many LLP cases may be well suited for resolution through negotiation or mediation, especially when the matter is lower conflict or involves relatively straightforward financial and parenting issues. Knowing the limits of the LLP scope – Why LLPs must recognize when a case becomes too complex or involves legal issues outside their permitted scope and when an attorney should become involved. From paralegal to LLP – Megan shares how becoming an LLP changed her responsibilities, including managing her own cases, appearing in court, participating in mediation, and making legal decisions for clients. The future of Colorado’s LLP program – Amy and Megan discuss possible expansion into additional practice areas, the importance of mentorship, and efforts to build a stronger educational and career pipeline for future LLPs. Why Listen? Whether you are going through a divorce, working in family law, considering becoming an LLP, or simply interested in how Colorado is expanding access to legal services, this episode provides a practical look at how Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals are changing the family law landscape. Learn what LLPs can do, how they work alongside attorneys, how courtroom responsibilities are evolving, and what the future may hold for this growing profession. What is Divorce at Altitude? Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here. If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at info@kalamaya.law. What is Divorce at Altitude? Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here. If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at info@kalamaya.law. ************************************************************************ DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.
