Points to Ask Paralegal Programs
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what educational options are offered, you can start the process of assessing schools. But because there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Hoover AL area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other crucial factors to think about also, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you enroll in should be accredited by a respected accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also obtain 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 receive will be of the highest standard, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Hoover AL law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are contemplating. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no previous experience, since employers will need to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Verifying that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Hoover AL law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also present an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the Hoover AL legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Alabama legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws vary from state to state, it might be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school domiciled in Alabama or the state where you wish to work after graduating. In addition, it will be important to create relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more justification to receive your education in the area where you desire to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may want to first investigate those colleges that are within the Hoover AL area.
How Much is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in price based on the credential received and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be available to help minimize part of the expense, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Hoover AL. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, some of these added expenses, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while obtaining their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Hoover AL, verify classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you enroll in offers that option. Last, inquire what the procedure is for making up missed classes due to sickness, work or family obligations.