Things to Ask Paralegal Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what educational options are available, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Arroyo Grande CA area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like most prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other critical factors to consider as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a respected 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 online or distance education. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Arroyo Grande CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are usually offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Research 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 experience, since employers will need to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the school you pick 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 Arroyo Grande CA law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also present a means for students to start establishing contacts within the Arroyo Grande CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without support. Ask if the paralegal schools you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Because laws differ from state to state, it might be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you wish to work after graduation. In addition, it will be important to cultivate relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the area where you want to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to first consider those schools that are within the Arroyo Grande CA area.
How Much is the Entire Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in cost based on the credential obtained and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be accessible to help minimize part of the cost, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Arroyo Grande CA. Of course if you opt to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of paralegal students continue working while obtaining their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Arroyo Grande CA, verify classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you select makes available that option. Finally, ask what the protocol is for making up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family obligations.