Charting The LLP Path: Selena Salinas’ Experience

Selena: LLP’s are governed by CRCP 207.1 and possess a limited license to practice family law. LLP’s have extensive experience, advanced education, and comprehensive training, and are uniquely equipped to offer personalized support and guidance to individuals and families seeking assistance in family law matters.

Selena: When I first discovered the LLP program in Colorado, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to take my career to the next level. I have always felt a strong desire to work more closely with clients and as a seasoned family law paralegal, I have a deep understanding of the court system and navigating its complexities. Now, as an LLP I can work more closely with clients and provide more direct support during their time of need. I am thrilled to make a real difference in the lives of those I serve.  

Selena: LLP’s will be able to handle a wide variety of family law matters such as divorce, custody, legal separation, modification of parenting time, child support, and more.

Caroline: Can you describe some of the tasks you are authorized to perform that differentiate you from a traditional attorney?

Selena: An LLP is not authorized to conduct an examination of witnesses. An LLP may only address the court upon the court’s request. If all other settlement options have been exhausted and a hearing has been set, a traditional attorney would be better equipped to handle that process.

Caroline: What are some of the limitations of an LLP, and how will you handle situations that fall outside your scope of practice?

Selena: CRCP 207.1(g) specifies which matters an LLP is not authorized to practice. As an LLP, my goal is to help clients to the best of my abilities within my scope to practice law. In our firm, we have many attorneys who would be able to assist my clients in instances that fall outside of my scope or transfer to them, as necessary. We are a team here and we all do our part to help the client on their journey.

Selena: I ensure that clients receive high-quality legal assistance by prioritizing their needs, utilizing my skills as an LLP, including my expertise in family law. When necessary, I tap into the expertise of our attorney team to provide comprehensive guidance. By following this process, I’m able to deliver quality services that meet the unique needs of each client and provide the best outcome for their case.

Selena: The LLP Rules of Professional Conduct are nearly identical to attorneys and maintaining client confidentiality and trust is of the utmost importance in our profession. I understand that clients share sensitive and personal information and it’s my responsibility to protect that information from unauthorized disclosure. I engage in ongoing education and training to stay current with industry changes, best practices, and regulatory requirements.

Selena: Our licensure was established to address a significant need in the community. Many families, when amicably parting ways or seeking to establish parenting arrangements, attempt to navigate the complex legal system on their own. These situations can lead to inadequate agreements, which may require frequent returns to court for modifications. Our role is to provide guidance, and support and enable parties to reach lasting settlements.

Selena: I would say go for it! The Colorado community needs you! As I navigated the path to licensure, I was deeply impressed by the State of Colorado’s unwavering dedication to supporting the LLP program. This commitment to accessible justice is a testament to Colorado’s forward-thinking approach to family law and its desire to provide individuals with alternatives to traditional attorney representation.

Selena: I am excited to put my skills and knowledge to good use and help Coloradoans navigate divorce or custody issues. The court process is overwhelming but LLP’s are here and ready to help.

Selena: I’d like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to Modern Family Law for investing time and effort into the LLP program. The internal training program has been instrumental in enhancing our skills and knowledge and has provided a seamless transition from Paralegal to LLP. It’s been a game-changer for me!