Things to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Sylacauga AL area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must find out what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant issues to research also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick need to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also get 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 get will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Sylacauga AL law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically available only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call several Sylacauga AL law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Remember that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to start developing contacts within the Sylacauga AL legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new field can be difficult without support. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Alabama legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws vary from one state to another, it may be advantageous to enroll in a legal assistant school domiciled in Alabama or the state where you plan to work after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to build relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the area where you choose to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might need to initially investigate those colleges that are within the Sylacauga AL region.
What is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential received and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be obtainable to help reduce part of the expense, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Sylacauga AL. Naturally if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while obtaining their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Sylacauga AL, make certain 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 protocol is for making-up missed classes because of sickness, work or family emergencies.