What to Ask Paralegal Schools
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 since there are so many programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Auburn CA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to find out what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like many prospective 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 significant aspects to think about also, 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 considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online education. Accreditation will not only certify 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 Auburn CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often available only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are entering the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the program 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 contact some Auburn CA law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while attending school. They can also offer a means for students to begin establishing contacts within the Auburn CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Find out if the paralegal schools you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Since laws differ among states, it may be a good idea to select a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you want to work after graduation. In addition, it will be valuable to build relationships in the local legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the community where you desire to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may need to initially investigate those schools that are within the Auburn CA region.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in cost based on the credential earned 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 aid may be available to help offset part of the cost, so be sure to contact the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Auburn CA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these added expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? A number of paralegal students continue working while getting their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Auburn CA, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you select provides that option. Last, ask what the process is for making up classes missed due to work, illness or family emergencies.