Colorado doesn’t require specific paralegal certification or licensing. You can enter the field with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies from an ABA-approved program. Colorado paralegals earn a median annual salary significantly higher than the national average, with Denver offering some of the highest compensation in the state at $76,740 annually.
Colorado continues to make news with its strong economic growth, consistently ranking among the top states in the nation for its surging GDP. This translates to excellent opportunities for the paralegal profession and makes it a great time to consider becoming a paralegal in Colorado.
Colorado corporations such as Lumen Technologies (formerly Qwest), Macy’s in Denver, DISH Network in Englewood, and the Children’s Hospital in Aurora ensure a steady supply of corporate paralegal jobs. Top law firms like Holland & Hart, Davis Graham & Stubbs LLP, and Sherman & Howard LLC are always searching for paralegals with a solid work ethic, an unwavering commitment to excellence, and the proper credentials. The state doesn’t directly regulate paralegals in Colorado. They must work under the supervision of a lawyer who’s responsible for their professional conduct. Specific education or training requirements aren’t mandated, allowing aspiring paralegals to pursue career opportunities by earning a degree of their choice and earning national certification to further distinguish themselves.
Requirements & Regulations in Colorado
Colorado doesn’t impose specific certification or licensing requirements for paralegals. The state follows a voluntary certification model, which means you won’t find mandatory educational prerequisites or state-issued licenses. However, this doesn’t mean you can skip education entirely.
Most employers in Colorado expect paralegals to have formal training. Law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies typically require at least an associate’s degree in paralegal studies, though many prefer candidates with bachelor’s degrees. ABA-approved programs are particularly valued because they meet national standards for paralegal education.
While Colorado doesn’t directly regulate paralegals, you’ll work under the supervision of a licensed attorney who’s responsible for your professional conduct. This supervision requirement protects both you and your clients while giving you room to grow your skills under experienced guidance.
Certification vs. Certificate Programs
In areas where paralegal jobs are competitive, candidates may find that a higher level of education can give them an advantage over other applicants. Sometimes employers will state that they wish to hire a “certified paralegal.” They may want a job candidate with a national certification, but most often they’re looking for an employee who has completed an educational program to earn a degree or certificate. It’s essential to understand the difference between the two and to clarify with a potential employer which type of paralegal they’re hoping to hire.
Paralegals with a Certificate
Paralegals with a certificate have earned a certificate showing they’ve completed an educational program in paralegal studies. Sometimes, a person who already holds a degree in another area will specialize in paralegal studies by completing a certificate program. Other certificate programs are stand-alone and don’t require students to have completed prior higher education coursework. Not all programs are approved by the American Bar Association, nor are they all accredited. It’s essential to research the certificate programs that will best prepare you for employment in Colorado and give you an edge over the competition.
Certified Paralegals
Certified paralegals are those who have passed a national certification exam and have been issued certification by a national paralegal association. The national paralegal associations offer national certification to candidates who have completed educational programs, gained knowledge through working as paralegals, or both.
The purpose of these national certification exams is to recognize professional paralegals who have mastered the national requirement of legal information and are competent in their field. By certifying paralegals, the national organizations work to increase the visibility and professionalism of their peers.
Currently, there are three national exams from which to select:
- The PACE and PCCE are offered by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The CLA/CP provided by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
Education Pathways
Several different educational pathways exist for aspiring paralegals: associate’s degrees in paralegal studies, bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies, and certificate programs. There are also a few schools offering master’s-level paralegal degrees. Each type of educational program has different entry requirements, and these requirements also vary from school to school.
The body of knowledge required to perform legal support services effectively can only be gained through a formal education in paralegal studies. As attorneys, corporations, and government agencies work within an increasingly complex legal framework, the level of responsibility paralegals are expected to take on has also increased. Law offices and other employers in Colorado have come to rely on paralegals with the kind of expertise that can only come from earning a certificate or degree in paralegal studies.
Associate’s Degree Programs
An associate’s degree in paralegal studies typically takes two years of full-time study to complete. These programs combine general education courses with specialized paralegal coursework covering legal research, writing, ethics, and practice-specific areas like litigation or corporate law. Many community colleges throughout Colorado offer associate’s degrees, making this an accessible and affordable option for many students.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs
A bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies or legal studies takes four years to complete and provides more comprehensive training than an associate’s degree. You’ll take more advanced courses and have opportunities to specialize in specific areas of law. Some programs also include internship requirements that give you practical experience before graduation.
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs offer focused paralegal training for people who already have a degree in another field or for those seeking quick entry into the profession. These programs typically take several months to a year to complete and focus solely on paralegal skills, with no general education requirements.
Paralegal Schools & Programs in Colorado
Maybe you’re fresh out of high school and have been dreaming of the day you land a job with one of the big law firms with offices in a downtown Denver skyscraper. Maybe you’ve got several years under your belt in an entry-level paralegal position and want to start impressing the partners so you can catch your next big break and get promoted. Maybe you’ve been working in a completely different profession where you’re getting burnt out, and you’re ready to transition to your real career as a paralegal.
No matter where you are in your career and no matter what your reason is for starting to look at your education options, deciding which school to attend isn’t always easy. We’ve created a list of our top picks for online options and schools with campus locations in Colorado. The programs we selected were chosen based on specific quality measures. Our entire selection of schools only includes those that are regionally or nationally accredited.
Arapahoe Community College
Arapahoe Community College is in Littleton, with additional campuses in Parker and Castle Rock.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Paralegal – On-campus
Paralegal Certificate – On-campus (post-associate)
Colorado Mountain College
Colorado Mountain College (CMC) is a 4-year school in Glenwood Springs. Additional campus locations include Aspen, Breckenridge, Dillon, Carbondale, Buena Vista, Glenwood Springs, Rifle, Vail Valley at Edwards, Leadville, and Steamboat Springs.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal – Online
Paralegal Certificate – Online (post-associate)
Community College of Aurora
Community College of Aurora (CCA) is a 2-year community college located in Aurora.
Associate of General Studies Degree (AGS) – Paralegal – On-campus
Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) – Paralegal – On-campus
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Management with Paralegal Emphasis – On-campus
Paralegal Certificate – On-campus (post-associate)
Community College of Denver
Community College of Denver (CCD) is a 2-year community college located in Denver, with additional campuses throughout the Denver area. CCD is regionally accredited and is also a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal – On-campus
General Paralegal Certificate – On-campus (undergraduate, pre-degree)
Emily Griffith Technical College
Emily Griffith Technical College is a less-than-2-year public institution with its campus located in Denver.
Legal Office Certificate – On-campus
Front Range Community College
Front Range Community College is a 2-year public institution located in Westminster. There are additional campuses in Brighton, Fort Collins, and Longmont.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal/Legal Assistant – On-campus and online
Paralegal/Legal Assistant Certificate – On-campus and online (undergraduate, pre-degree)
Institute of Business & Medical Careers
The Institute of Business and Medical Careers College (IBMC) is a 2-year private institution with campuses in Fort Collins, Longmont, and Greeley.
Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) – Paralegal Studies – On-campus
Pikes Peak State College
Pikes Peak State College (formerly Pikes Peak Community College) is a 4-year public institution with a campus based in Colorado Springs.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal/Legal Assistant Studies – campus
Legal Technician Certificate of Achievement – campus
United States Air Force Academy
The United States Air Force Academy is a 4-year public institution with its campus located in Colorado Springs.
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – campus
Salary & Compensation in Colorado
Colorado’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade reports the state is adding thousands of new good-paying jobs, new homes, new enterprising businesses, and opportunities around every corner. Colorado continues to enjoy a strong economy, which translates into an equally strong legal services industry and paralegal profession, with salaries to match. Colorado ranks among the top-paying states in the nation for paralegals, consistently outperforming the national average.
Salaries in both metro and non-metro areas continue to place Colorado among the top-paying states for paralegals. As of May 2024, paralegals nationwide earned a median annual salary of $61,010, with a mean of $66,510. Colorado paralegals typically earn well above these national averages, with the state’s robust economy supporting higher compensation levels. The most recent state-level data from May 2023 showed Colorado paralegals earning an average annual salary of $72,220, or $34.72 per hour, approximately $6,000 more than the national average.
Salary by Experience Level
Your earning potential as a Colorado paralegal depends heavily on your experience level. Entry-level paralegals typically earn less while building their skills and reputation, while experienced paralegals with specialized knowledge can command significantly higher salaries.
Colorado’s paralegal workforce continues to grow, with professionals finding opportunities across various legal sectors. According to 2024 national BLS data, paralegal salaries range from $39,710 at the 10th percentile (entry-level) to $98,990 at the 90th percentile (experienced professionals). For those with significant experience and a legal specialization in Colorado, salaries can go considerably higher than the national figures. Colorado paralegals in the top 10% have historically earned over $100,000 annually, reflecting the state’s competitive legal market.
Salary by Major City
Geographic location within Colorado significantly impacts your earning potential. Denver and its surrounding metro area offer the highest salaries, reflecting both the concentration of major law firms and corporate legal departments and the region’s higher cost of living.
| City/Metro Area | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage | Top 10% Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial | $76,740 | $36.90 | $107,680 |
| Fort Collins-Loveland | $66,310 | $31.88 | $84,280 |
| Greeley | $64,690 | $31.10 | $83,960 |
| Boulder | $62,930 | $30.26 | $92,520 |
| Colorado Springs | $59,480 | $28.60 | $77,340 |
| Grand Junction | $54,980 | $26.43 | $67,080 |
| Pueblo | $49,630 | $23.86 | $68,180 |
Denver’s experienced paralegals continue to earn the highest salaries in the state, with top performers commanding over $100,000 annually. The city offers a variety of options for experienced paralegals, as the regional economy has multiple sectors that rely on in-house legal staff. These range from finance and natural resources/construction to education/health services and leisure/hospitality. Such a variety of industries increases the likelihood that paralegals can practice in their specialty.
Factors Affecting Your Salary
Several factors beyond location and experience influence how much you’ll earn as a Colorado paralegal:
- Specialization: Paralegals who specialize in high-demand areas like corporate law, intellectual property, or complex litigation often command higher salaries than those in general practice
- Employer type: Large law firms and corporate legal departments typically pay more than small firms or nonprofit organizations
- Education level: Bachelor’s degree holders often earn more than those with only associate’s degrees
- Certification: National certifications from NALA or NFPA can boost your earning potential
- Bilingual skills: Fluency in Spanish or other languages can make you more valuable to employers
Job Outlook & Career Growth
The paralegal job outlook in Colorado remains promising. The state’s robust economy, growing population, and diverse industries create consistent demand for qualified paralegals. Colorado’s legal services sector continues to expand alongside the state’s overall economic growth, providing excellent career opportunities for trained paralegals.
Colorado’s paralegal workforce totaled approximately 5,400 as of 2023. These professionals lend their talents to the law departments of major corporate players in leisure and hospitality, natural resources and mining, construction, manufacturing, biopharmaceuticals, and aerospace industries. They also work in nonprofit organizations like Hunger Free Colorado or the UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital, and in law firms specializing in everything from litigation to bankruptcy to estate law.
Industries Hiring Paralegals
Colorado’s diverse economy creates paralegal opportunities across multiple sectors:
- Law Firms: From small boutique practices to large national firms with Colorado offices
- Corporate Legal Departments: Major Colorado employers like Lumen Technologies (formerly Qwest), Macy’s, DISH Network, and Children’s Hospital
- Government Agencies: Federal, state, and local government offices throughout Colorado
- Natural Resources: Energy companies and environmental law practices
- Real Estate: Given Colorado’s ongoing development and growth
- Healthcare: Hospitals, healthcare systems, and medical practices
Career Advancement Opportunities
As you gain experience, several advancement paths open up. You might specialize in a particular area of law, become a senior paralegal supervising junior staff, or transition into a legal operations or law firm management role. Some experienced paralegals also use their background as a stepping stone to law school.
Professional Paralegal Associations
Colorado supports two professional paralegal associations: the Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association and the Pikes Peak Paralegals.
Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association (RMPA)
Since 1977, the Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association (RMPA), an affiliate of the NFPA, has worked to promote the paralegal profession, provide continuing education and specialization opportunities, encourage networking, and increase collaboration between individuals and organizations.
With members from all of the Rocky Mountain States, including Colorado, Nebraska, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming, the RMPA can sustain committees on vital issues for paralegals, such as pro bono services, education, freelance paralegals, and family law. They offer information and study materials for those aspiring to become paralegals or earn national certification.
Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association (RMPA) offers four membership levels:
- Voting Member: Must be an employed paralegal
- Associate Member: Open to individuals who support the RMPA
- Sustaining Member: Open to firms, organizations, and businesses that support the RMPA
- Student Member: Open to students enrolled in a paralegal program
Pikes Peak Paralegals (PPP)
As an affiliate of NALA, the Pikes Peak Paralegals (PPP) also works to increase the professional standing of and demand for paralegals, provide training and education to its members, and offer networking and support for paralegals throughout Colorado. Established in 1977, the PPP provides regular seminars and events for students and practicing paralegals.
Pikes Peak Paralegals offers membership at three levels:
Active Membership is open to anyone who meets any of the following conditions:
- Graduated from an ABA-approved paralegal program
- Graduated from an institutionally-approved paralegal program that is at least 60 semester credits
- Graduated from a paralegal program and have at least six months of paralegal experience under the supervision of a licensed attorney.
- Have a bachelor’s degree in any field, plus at least six months of paralegal experience under the supervision of a licensed attorney.y
- Have three years of legal experience under the supervision of a licensed attorney, including at least six months of in-house training
- Have at least two years of in-house training under the supervision of a licensed attorney.
- Passed NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP)/Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) exam
Student Membership is open to any student in good standing studying to become a paralegal at any ABA-approved school.
Associate Membership is open to anyone who meets any of the following conditions:
- Any member of the bar association who endorses the concept of a paralegal
- Any member of the educational field who supports the idea of a paralegal
- Persons directly involved in the supervision of paralegals
- Any individual, law firm, corporation, or paralegal education program representative who endorses the paralegal concept
Major Employers & Law Firms
Law firms employ more paralegals than any other type of business. It can be useful to research local law firms to determine their hiring requirements and employment opportunities. Large law firms in Colorado include:
- Holland & Hart LLP
- Holme Roberts & Owen LLP
- Sherman & Howard LLC
- Davis Graham & Stubbs LLP
- Brownstein Hyatt & Farber PC
- Berg Hill Greenleaf & Ruscitti LLP
- Hogan & Hartson
- Cooley Godward LLP
- Faegre & Benson LLP
- Hall & Evans LLC
- Kutak Rock
Important Contacts for Colorado Paralegals
- Pikes Peak Paralegals, affiliated with NALA
- Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association, affiliated with the NFPA
- Colorado Freelance Paralegal Network
- Colorado Bar Association Paralegal Committee
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Colorado require paralegal certification or licensing?
No, Colorado doesn’t require specific certification or licensing for paralegals. You’ll work under the supervision of a licensed attorney who’s responsible for your professional conduct. However, most employers expect you to have formal education, typically at least an associate’s degree in paralegal studies. National certifications from organizations like NALA or NFPA can help you stand out, but aren’t mandatory.
How long does it take to become a paralegal in Colorado?
The timeline depends on your educational path. An associate’s degree takes about two years of full-time study, while a bachelor’s degree takes four years. If you already have a degree in another field, you can complete a paralegal certificate program in several months to a year. Add a few months if you decide to pursue national certification after completing your education.
What’s the average paralegal salary in Colorado?
Colorado paralegals earn an average salary of $72,220 annually ($34.72 per hour), significantly higher than the national average. Entry-level paralegals can expect to start lower, while experienced paralegals in the top 10% can earn $101,830 or more. Denver offers the highest salaries in the state, with an average of $76,740 annually and top earners making over $107,680.
Can I work as a paralegal in Colorado without a degree?
While Colorado doesn’t legally require a degree, finding employment without formal education is extremely difficult. Most employers require at least an associate’s degree in paralegal studies, and many prefer bachelor’s degrees. Some employers might consider candidates with extensive legal experience but no degree, though these situations are rare. Your best path into the profession is through formal education at an accredited program.
Are online paralegal programs accepted in Colorado?
Yes, online paralegal programs are widely accepted in Colorado, especially those from regionally accredited institutions. Many Colorado schools offer hybrid programs that combine online coursework with occasional in-person sessions. When choosing an online program, look for regional or national accreditation and consider ABA-approved programs, which employers particularly value.
What’s the difference between ABA-approved and non-ABA-approved programs?
ABA-approved programs meet specific standards set by the American Bar Association for curriculum, faculty qualifications, and resources. These programs undergo regular reviews to maintain approval. While Colorado doesn’t require ABA approval, many employers prefer or even require candidates from ABA-approved programs. Non-ABA-approved programs can still provide quality education, but they haven’t gone through the ABA’s rigorous approval process.
What’s the job outlook for paralegals in Colorado?
Colorado’s paralegal job outlook remains strong. The state’s robust economy, growing population, and diverse industries create consistent demand for qualified paralegals. Colorado’s legal services sector continues to expand alongside the state’s overall economic growth, providing excellent career opportunities for trained paralegals.
Should I join a professional paralegal association in Colorado?
Joining a professional association like the Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association or Pikes Peak Paralegals offers significant benefits. You’ll gain access to continuing education, networking opportunities, job postings, and resources to help you advance your career. Both organizations offer student memberships at reduced rates, making it affordable to get involved even before you complete your education.
Key Takeaways
- Colorado doesn’t require specific paralegal certification or licensing, but most employers expect formal education through an associate’s or bachelor’s degree program.
- Colorado paralegals earn an average annual salary of $72,220, ranking fifth nationally for paralegal compensation.n
- Multiple educational pathways exist, including associate’s degrees (2 years), bachelor’s degrees (4 years), and certificate programs (several months to 1 year)
- Denver offers the highest salaries in Colorado at $76,740 annually, with experienced paralegals earning over $107,680
- Colorado’s strong economy and diverse industries create consistent demand for qualified paralegals.
- ABA-approved programs are particularly valued by employers, though not legally required.d
- Professional associations like RMPA and Pikes Peak Paralegals provide networking, continuing education, and career support throughout your paralegal career.
Ready to Start Your Paralegal Career in Colorado?
Explore ABA-approved programs and certificate options to begin your journey into Colorado’s thriving legal profession.
Salary Disclaimer: 2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job market figures for Paralegals and Legal Assistants reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed December 2025.
