Ireland Stapleton Centennial Highlights

Ireland Stapleton traces its roots to 1926, when Clarence Ireland, a University of Colorado School of Law graduate and Army veteran, co-founded the firm then known as Ireland & Blackman. From the outset, the firm was grounded in service, integrity, and a deep commitment to Colorado. Clarence would later serve as Colorado’s 25th Attorney General, beginning a legacy of public leadership that continues to shape the firm’s identity.

That legacy grew in 1940 when Gail L. Ireland joined his cousin Clarence, forming Ireland & Ireland. Gail would go on to serve as Colorado’s 28th Attorney General, further reinforcing the firm’s reputation for principled advocacy and public service.

Following World War II, the firm welcomed Benjamin F. Stapleton, Jr. and Wilber “Wib” M. Pryor, both returning veterans who brought new perspective and momentum. As the firm expanded its practice across commercial law, securities, mergers and acquisitions, banking, real estate, natural resources, public utilities, and complex litigation, Ben and Wib were named partners in 1950, and the firm became Ireland, Ireland, Stapleton & Pryor.

Ben Stapleton’s influence extended well beyond the practice of law. He served as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Colorado and was deeply involved in civic and international leadership, from serving as President of the YMCA of Metropolitan Denver to helping establish Denver’s sister-city relationship with Brest, France. His contributions earned him the Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Mérite from the French government, reflecting a career defined by service and global perspective.

In 1960, Monte D. Pascoe joined the firm, bringing a sharp legal mind and a profound commitment to social justice. A graduate of Dartmouth College and Stanford Law School, Monte played a pivotal role in the landmark Keyes case, which led to the desegregation of Denver Public Schools. His career spanned public service and leadership, including roles as Chair of the Colorado Democratic Party, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources, and Commissioner on the Denver Board of Water Commissioners. In recognition of his enduring civic impact, the City and County of Denver established the Monte Pascoe Civic Leadership Award in 2006.

In 1989, the firm formally became Ireland Stapleton Pryor & Pascoe, reflecting the leaders who shaped its path and values.

Today, nearly a century after its founding, Ireland Stapleton looks very different than it did in 1926, yet remains guided by the same principles. With more than 40 attorneys and offices in Denver, Fort Collins, and Grand Junction, the firm continues to deliver trusted judgment, strategic counsel, and proven legal results across a wide range of industries and communities.

“The firm has a long history of tackling complex legal issues,” said Kelley Duke, Managing Director. “The work we do untangles complex legal issues, sets precedent, and helps lay the groundwork for our communities to thrive.”

For 100 years, Ireland Stapleton has stood beside its clients and communities. And as the firm looks ahead to its next century, that commitment remains unchanged.