LLP Monthly Report – Issue 8

The Colorado Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP) initiative is a pioneering program authorized by the Colorado Supreme Court, creating a new class of legal service providers. Although not attorneys, LLPs are licensed to undertake specific legal tasks, such as preparing documents, collecting information, and offering basic legal guidance. This initiative aims to make legal services more accessible across Colorado. (See CRCP 207.1). 

NOTE: We’ve been asked how long we intend to publish our internal LLP data. It’s our goal to continue publishing monthly until the first anniversary of the program. With one year of data, the trajectory should be clear. Volume 12 will be the last LLP report and will focus on a one year look back at the program.

The emerging difference between attorney cases and LLP cases open within the last 8 months is meaningless – 105 days for LLP cases and 102 days for attorney cases. It appears the decision whether to hire an LLP or an attorney is NOT the controlling factor in case duration.

Notes on data: Since this data is collected as part of a client’s mandatory financial disclosure, it often takes weeks or even months, after hiring the firm to populate into our system. Given the small pool of LLP clients, the largest earner in both categories was removed from the data pool.

One objective of the LLP program is to lower the cost of entry for consumers. Less upfront expense helps consumers retain legal assistance from the start. This is particularly important in communities where the cost of legal services is generally out of reach.

While there exists some national and statewide data on the costs associated with family law representation, there does not appear to be data on cost of entry. Accordingly, we will use a comparison of cost of entry for cases inside our firm where a lawyer is designated as primary verses where an LLP is designated as primary.

Average Cost of Entry (Retainer)

Attorney Listed as Primary $3,034

LLP Listed as Primary $1,963

July 1 – February 28

Eight months into the LLP program, the average cost of entry for consumers is 35% lower for those hiring an LLP.

Note: Cost of entry at our firm is heavily impacted by the SimpleStart program which can reduce a client’s retainer to $0 if the client’s credit/income/assets demonstrate low risk. These averages cannot be compared to other firms without a similar program.

Age 

Race

InsuXicient data to report as an insuRicient number of cases have been closed to generate surveys. That data will appear here for comparison between the two types of service providers, attorneys and LLPs.

The data contained in this report is generated by our proprietary case management software which tracks data points for all matters regardless of whether those matters are assigned to an attorney or an LLP. This allows the firm to compare the two groups from any point in time to determine similarities and differences such as those reported below.

Data is collected at the time the client retains the firm, as part of the financial disclosure process and at the conclusion of the matter. Where actual data is compared to forecasts, the forecast is based on historical performance, growth trends, staffing and other resources as well as team input. Forecasting used in this report is generally done monthly.

* Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals The Colorado Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP) initiative is a pioneering program authorized by the Colorado Supreme Court, creating a new class of legal service provider. Although not attorneys, LLPs are licensed to undertake specific legal tasks, such as preparing documents, collecting information, and oMering basic legal guidance. This initiative aims to make legal services more accessible across Colorado. (See CRCP 207.1).

Modern Family Law is proud to lead the way in providing accessible legal solutions through Colorado’s LLP program. Whether you’re navigating a complex family matter or seeking guidance for the next step in your case, our Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals in Colorado are here to help. With their expertise and dedication, LLPs make quality legal representation more attainable than ever. Learn more about how this innovative program can benefit you by visiting our LLP program page.