Explanation of House Bill 24-1291

This bill concerns the authority of licensed legal paraprofessionals (LLPs) to represent individuals in certain domestic relations matters. The Colorado supreme court has approved the licensure of LLPs, allowing them to provide legal services related to domestic relations matters, such as legal separations, dissolutions of marriage, child support, and civil protection orders. The bill aligns the relevant statutory provisions with the court rule authorizing the licensure of LLPs.

The bill establishes that LLPs must obtain a license from the supreme court to practice as a legal paraprofessional and may only engage in authorized tasks or activities. It requires a criminal history record check and a name-based judicial record check for applicants. Local law enforcement agencies are required to cooperate with the supreme court's requests for records related to an applicant's criminal history.

The bill also outlines the scope of authority for licensed legal paraprofessionals, which includes representing clients in various domestic relations matters. It prohibits discrimination based on race, creed, color, religion, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, national origin, or ancestry in granting licenses to practice law as a legal paraprofessional.

The bill further addresses the fee structure for licensed legal paraprofessionals and specifies that the licensed legal paraprofessional fees awarded by the court should be reasonable. It also discusses the appointment and qualifications of licensed legal paraprofessionals in domestic relations cases.

The bill provides guidelines for determining attorney fees or licensed legal paraprofessional fees in civil actions, including factors that the court should consider when assessing such fees. It also establishes certain limitations and requirements for attorney-client privilege, confidentiality, and the rights of individuals during legal proceedings.

This bill would take effect upon the expiration of the ninety-day period after the final adjournment of the general assembly, unless a referendum petition is filed against it. It may also require approval by the people in the general election.

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