Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training options are offered, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Jacksonville AL area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most 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 important aspects to research as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the programs you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select need to be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Jacksonville AL law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the profession with no previous work history, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call a few Jacksonville AL law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also present a pathway for students to start establishing contacts within the Jacksonville AL legal field. Ask if the paralegal schools you are evaluating provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Alabama legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Because laws vary from one state to another, it might be beneficial to choose a paralegal school domiciled in Alabama or the state where you want to work after graduating. Also, it will be important to create relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the area where you want to practice. 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 need to first look at those schools that are within the Jacksonville AL area.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price depending on the credential received and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be accessible to help reduce part of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Jacksonville AL. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Jacksonville AL, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you choose makes available that option. Last, inquire what the procedure is for making up classes missed due to work, illness or family emergencies.