Melissa Simonton has been a Senior Paralegal in family law for over 30 years.

Upon returning to Colorado, Melissa was fortunate to find a position in family law as a paralegal, a role in which she supported many remarkable attorneys over the years. Her experience spans a wide range of domestic relations matters supporting clients and attorneys through family law matters, including divorce, custody, child support, maintenance, property division, high-conflict litigation, and even pro bono cases.

Melissa’s extensive paralegal career inspired her to pursue a new path as a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP). She sat for Colorado’s inaugural LLP Bar Exam in April 2024 and was sworn in on June 20, 2024. As an LLP, she now draws on her deep experience, knowledge, and skill set to provide legal assistance.

Melissa’s personal history plays a meaningful role in her dedication to family law. Growing up and later raising her own family as a single mother, she understands firsthand the uncertainty, stress, and emotional weight that often accompany major family transitions. These experiences shaped her belief that every person deserves understanding, guidance, and support as they navigate difficult moments. They also fuel her commitment to helping families find stability and clarity during times of change.

Throughout her career, every case she supported mattered deeply to her. Melissa learned the importance of compassion, clarity, and care when guiding families through some of the most difficult moments in their lives. As an LLP, she is committed to using her expertise to assist individuals and families who previously may not have been able to afford legal representation.

In addition to her legal training, Melissa completed mediation training and earned her mediation certificate, further enhancing her ability to support families in resolving conflict with respect and understanding.

In August 2024, Melissa launched her own practice, 5280 Licensed Legal Paraprofessional, LLC, with the goal of expanding access to justice and quality legal assistance in Colorado.

She has always believed that knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions for themselves, and she is committed to providing clients with clear explanations, practical guidance, and trustworthy support.

Melissa looks forward to helping clients navigate the complexities of their family law matters with compassion and confidence—at a cost significantly lower than retaining a traditional attorney.

Melissa is the proud mother of three adult sons—raising them ensured there was never a dull moment. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, hiking, paddleboarding, and is an avid sports fan.