Are you considering a rewarding career and wondering how to become a paralegal in Colorado? This comprehensive guide will provide you with a roadmap to navigate the various educational pathways, certifications, and practical experience opportunities available. By exploring these options, you will be well-equipped to embark on a successful paralegal journey in the state’s thriving legal community.

What you’re about to learn in this guide:

Colorado offers aspiring paralegals a rich selection of educational options, such as associate degrees, certificate programs, and online courses. Acquiring formal education can be a powerful way to showcase your abilities to law offices across the public and private sectors.

We will now delve into the different educational pathways available for those aiming to become paralegals in Colorado.

Associate of Applied Science Degree

An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Paralegal Studies is a two-year program offered by accredited institutions in Colorado, providing students with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue a career in the field. Obtaining an AAS degree from a range of paralegal schools enables you to begin working promptly or transfer to a four-year college or university while cultivating skills and understanding of the legal profession.

The 60-credit curriculum includes a range of general and core paralegal courses designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the legal system. These include:

• Constitutional Law

• Legal Writing

• Criminal Law

• Probate and Estates

Students have the option to choose from specialty electives such as Corporate Law, Family Law, Administrative Law, and Environmental Law. These electives offer them the opportunity to gain knowledge in specific areas of their legal career.

The AAS program is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), ensuring that it covers essential topics such as legal ethics, legal research, and other relevant subjects.

Paralegal Certificate Programs

A paralegal studies program, such as the Paralegal Certificate program at Community College of Aurora, is designed to provide students with an opportunity to develop their legal knowledge and skills. This certificate program includes a range of legal topics, such as:

• Family Law

• Contracts

• Torts

• Civil Litigation

• Criminal Law

• Property Law

This program prepares students to become a paralegal associate with practical skills through courses like legal research and writing. To obtain a certificate from The Community College of Aurora, 30 credit hours of paralegal coursework are required.

Another example is the Paralegal Certificate program at Arapahoe Community College, consisting of 30 credit hours of major courses in the paralegal profession and 6 elective credit hours. Admission to the Certificate program at Arapahoe Community College is open to those who have an associate’s degree or higher. A minimum of an associate’s degree is required for admission. By enrolling in these certificate programs, you can enhance your legal knowledge and skills, making you a valuable asset to potential employers.

Front Range Community College also offers a paralegal certificate program. The Front Range Community College paralegal certificate program requires 30 credit hours across two semesters. The paralegal studies program will provide basic legal knowledge, preparing you for an entry-level career as a legal assistant in a law firm or corporate or government agency setting.

Online Paralegal Programs

For those seeking flexibility and convenience, online paralegal programs offer a viable solution. Colorado Mountain College provides an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) and a Certificate in Paralegal Studies, both of which can be completed fully online. This technical education program aims to provide knowledge about the bachelor’s degree program options and areas of study for those hoping to become paralegals.

Online paralegal certificate programs, such as CLS programs, offer the following benefits:

• Flexibility to accommodate your current circumstances

• Ability to take your course at your own convenience in a private setting, such as your home or office

• Balancing your personal and professional life while gaining the education necessary for a successful paralegal career.

While Colorado doesn’t have a specific certification process for paralegals, aspiring professionals can achieve national certification through organizations like the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). Such certification can significantly enhance career opportunities.

We will now examine the national certification options accessible to Colorado’s paralegals.

National Certification through NALA

Candidates who have completed educational programs or gained knowledge through working as paralegals can take the national certification exam. It is also possible to combine the two, completing an educational program and gaining knowledge through working as a paralegal.

Paralegals who have completed their exam and gained certification from a national association are deemed certified. This certification is necessary in order to be considered a certified paralegal. The purpose of certification exams through a national federation is to recognize paralegals who have demonstrated proficiency in legal information and possess the requisite skills to be competent in their field.

Taking the exam and receiving a passing grade will take you one step closer to becoming a Certified Paralegal (CP). It is an important milestone for anyone who wishes to practice in the field of law. Enrolling in a curriculum can help you obtain an Advanced Paralegal Certification (APC). Successfully completing the program is necessary to earn the certification. Obtaining national certification through NALA can enhance your professional credibility and career opportunities.

Benefits of Certification for Legal Assistants

Achieving national certification as a paralegal can result in:

• Increased job prospects

• Higher level of professional credibility

• Recognition and progression in the field

• Improved job prospects

• Showcasing knowledge and proficiency

• Potential for career development and greater remuneration

• Access to a professional network

By obtaining a paralegal certification, you demonstrate your commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development, making you an attractive candidate to potential employers.

Gaining practical experience through internships and volunteering in the legal field is invaluable, providing aspiring paralegals with firsthand experience, fine-tuning their skills, and expanding their professional network.

We will now discuss the different ways to accrue practical experience for advancing a paralegal career.

ABA-Approved Paralegal Programs

Enrolling in an American Bar Association (ABA)-approved paralegal program that offers internships can provide you with hands-on experience in the legal field. These programs adhere to the standards set by the ABA and offer comprehensive training for individuals aspiring to pursue a career as a paralegal.

Internships can enhance a candidate’s employability by granting them practical experience in the field and facilitating the acquisition of the skills and knowledge necessary to become a successful paralegal.

Volunteering at Legal Aid Organizations

Volunteering at legal aid organizations offers a wealth of experience and insight into the legal profession. It can also facilitate the development of professional connections and offer an opportunity to gain experience in a specific area of law.

Some organizations that provide pro bono legal assistance include:

• Legal Aid organizations

• Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts

• Pro Bono Partnership

• Innocence Project

• American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)

• Public Counsel

• National Immigration Law Center

• National Veterans Legal Services Program

These organizations work in conjunction with attorneys, law students, and other volunteers to bridge the disparity between those who require legal aid and those who receive it directly from Legal Aid organizations.

By volunteering, you not only gain valuable experience but also make a positive impact on the lives of others who need legal help.

The job market and salary prospects for Colorado’s paralegals are positive, with a projected growth rate of 22.6% anticipated through 2026.

We will now investigate the employment statistics, job growth projections, and salary ranges for paralegals in Colorado.

Employment Numbers and Job Growth Projections

As of May 2020, there are 5,520 paralegals and legal assistants employed in Colorado. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has forecast an 8.2% increase in the number of paralegals and legal assistants in Colorado from 2019 to 2029.

This growth is indicative of the increasing demand for skilled paralegals in the state’s legal community.

Salary Ranges and Factors Affecting Salaries

Salary ranges for paralegals in Colorado can vary, but the annual mean wage is $62,250 per year, with the average salary being around $60,000 to $65,000 per year. Factors such as experience, location, and employer may affect the salary range.

Colorado’s average pay for paralegals ranks fourth in the US. It is an attractive option for those seeking a career in this field. By pursuing a paralegal career in Colorado, you can potentially enjoy a competitive salary and promising career growth.

Joining professional paralegal associations and networking in Colorado can enable paralegals to stay abreast of the latest industry developments, connect with peers, and gain access to resources and job opportunities.

We will now explore the various paralegal associations and networking opportunities within Colorado.

Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association (RMPA)

The Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association (RMPA) is a non-profit organization based in Denver, Colorado, providing representation for paralegals in the Rocky Mountain region, including Colorado, New Mexico, South Dakota, and more. RMPA offers its members the opportunity to network, participate in social events, gain knowledge, and access career resources.

Members can benefit from a range of educational and networking opportunities, including seminars, workshops, and conferences. Moreover, RMPA provides a variety of career resources, such as job postings, resume reviews, and career advice. By joining RMPA, you can enhance your professional growth and expand your network in the legal community.

Pikes Peak Paralegals Legal Research

Pikes Peak Paralegals is another organization that offers programs for the training, utilization, and regulation of legal assistants. Members of Pikes Peak Paralegals can benefit from a range of resources, such as continuing education opportunities, networking events, and job postings.

To become a member of Pikes Peak Paralegals, one must submit an application and cover the annual membership fee. Once a member, you can access resources like a mentorship program, a legal research library, and a job bank.

Joining Pikes Peak Paralegals is another excellent way to advance your paralegal career and connect with like-minded professionals in Colorado.

Colorado boasts a variety of top law firms and employers offering excellent career opportunities for paralegals. Some prominent law firms employing paralegals in Colorado include:

• Holland & Hart

• Davis Graham & Stubbs LLP

• Sherman & Howard LLC

• Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck

• Hogan Lovells

In addition to law firms, government agencies, and legal departments within corporations also provide significant employment opportunities for paralegals in Colorado.

We will now discuss the premier law firms and employers for paralegals in Colorado, along with their hiring requirements.

Large Law Firms

Large private law firms in Colorado that employ paralegals include Kirkland & Ellis, Latham & Watkins, and DLA Piper. These firms often require paralegals to possess a minimum of an associate’s degree in paralegal studies, as well as demonstrate proficiency in research, writing, and communication.

Working at a top law firm in Colorado can provide paralegals with a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to participate in high-profile cases. It is essential to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the legal field and continue networking to increase your chances of landing a job at one of these prestigious firms.

Government Agencies and Corporate Legal Departments

Paralegals can find opportunities in government agencies and legal departments in corporate settings in Colorado. In these roles, paralegals may be responsible for tasks such as legal research, document preparation, and case management. To work in government agencies and corporate legal departments, paralegals must possess a minimum of an associate’s degree in paralegal studies, as well as demonstrate proficiency in research, writing, and communication.

Job postings for paralegals in government agencies and corporate legal departments in Colorado can be accessed via job search websites, such as Indeed and Monster, as well as on the websites of the agencies themselves. By keeping an eye on these resources, you can stay informed about the latest job opportunities and increase your chances of securing a rewarding position.

Successful paralegals in Colorado demonstrate the following skills:

• Strong writing and organizational skills

• Meticulous attention to detail

• The capacity to work both independently and collaboratively

• Effective interpersonal communication skills

• Critical thinking skills

These skills are crucial to excel in this role.

Paralegals must also be proficient in legal research, document preparation, and communication skills. They should be able to research and analyze legal documents, statutes, and case law, as well as interpret and apply the law to specific cases.

Moreover, paralegals must prepare legal documents, such as pleadings, motions, and briefs, and review and edit documents for accuracy and completeness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pursuing a paralegal career in Colorado offers a promising job market and competitive salary outlook. By exploring various educational pathways, obtaining certifications, and gaining practical experience through internships and volunteering, you can set yourself up for success in this rewarding profession.

Remember to join professional paralegal associations and participate in networking opportunities to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field and connect with fellow professionals. With the right combination of education, experience, and skills, you can embark on a fulfilling paralegal career in Colorado’s thriving legal community.

Frequently Asked Questions