Points to Ask Paralegal Schools
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the Birmingham AL area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant factors to consider as well, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a highly regarded accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Birmingham AL law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically available only for accredited schools.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Birmingham AL law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also present a means for students to start establishing contacts within the Birmingham AL legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Alabama legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws vary among states, it may be advantageous to enroll in a paralegal school located in Alabama or the state where you want to practice after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to establish relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more justification to acquire your education in the community where you wish to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to first look at those colleges that are within the Birmingham AL area.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be obtainable to help reduce part of the cost, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Birmingham AL. Of course if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Numerous legal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Birmingham AL, verify classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the school you enroll in provides that option. Last, inquire what the procedure is for making up classes missed because of sickness, work or family obligations.