Things to Ask Paralegal Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But since there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Albertville AL area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other important factors to research also, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Albertville AL law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are usually obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no prior work history, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the program you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call a few Albertville AL law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also provide a means for students to start developing contacts within the Albertville AL legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will probably wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the paralegal schools you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Alabama legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws vary from state to state, it may be advantageous to enroll in a paralegal school located in Alabama or the state where you want to work after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to build relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more reason to receive your education in the community where you want to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might wish to initially investigate those colleges that are within the Albertville AL region.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in price depending on the credential obtained and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be accessible to help reduce part of the expense, so be sure to check with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Albertville AL. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online school, a portion these added costs, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Albertville AL, verify classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you choose provides that option. Last, inquire what the process is for making up missed classes as a result of sickness, work or family emergencies.