The scope IS the license. Everything a Colorado LLP may do — and the exact lines they may not cross — lives in C.R.C.P. 207.1. The exam tests it relentlessly, and in practice, crossing a line is the unauthorized practice of law. Here is the complete map.
In scope — an LLP may represent clients in:
- Dissolution of marriage or civil union — pre- and post-decree
- Legal separation and declaration of invalidity
- Initial allocation and modification of parental responsibilities
- Child support — establishment, enforcement, and modification
- Remedial contempt tied to in-scope matters
- Civil protection orders
- Name changes and adult gender-designation changes
- Two-party parentage cases
And in those matters, an LLP may:
- Advise the client and prepare, sign, and file documents
- Appear at hearings; examine witnesses; make arguments and objections
- Answer the court’s questions and address the court; assist in mediation
The rule’s comment directs that the authorized scope be liberally construed to include all ordinary and reasonable actions within it.
Out of scope — the carve-outs (attorney required)
- QDROs and division documents for business assets or commercial property
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements — preparation or litigation
- Punitive contempt under C.R.C.P. 107
- Disputes over whether a common-law marriage exists or when it formed
- Complex trust issues — beneficiary status, trust value or income disputes
- Registration of foreign (out-of-state) orders
- Parentage cases involving more than two parents; certain ICWA-related disputes
- Collateral issues needing outside expertise: immigration, criminal, bankruptcy, and similar
The rule the exam loves most: when an out-of-scope issue appears mid-case, the LLP advises the client to get an attorney for that piece — and keeps the in-scope work under C.R.C.P. 207.1(i). Refer the piece, keep the case.
Scope questions decide real exam points. Several of our free 12 test exactly these lines — including the carve-out traps candidates fall for. Drill them free, timed, explained.
Sources: OARC LLP FAQ (C.R.C.P. 207.1 summary) · LLP Rules of Professional Conduct · Core Competencies (PDF). Verify scope questions against the current rule text.