Things to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training choices are available, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Montgomery AL area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other crucial issues to consider as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose need to be accredited by a reputable organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Montgomery AL law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are new to the profession with no prior experience, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you pick is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Montgomery AL law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also present a means for students to start developing contacts within the Montgomery AL legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Alabama legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Because laws differ from state to state, it might be beneficial to choose a legal assistant school located in Alabama or the state where you wish to work after graduation. Also, it will be valuable to cultivate relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to obtain your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to initially investigate those colleges that are within the Montgomery AL area.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal programs can differ in cost depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be available to help offset part of the expense, so be sure to check with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Montgomery AL. Naturally if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Montgomery AL, make certain classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you select makes available that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making-up classes missed due to work, illness or family emergencies.