Things to Ask Paralegal Schools
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Avocado Heights CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other significant aspects to think about as well, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also receive 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 standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Avocado Heights CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no prior experience, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you select is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Avocado Heights CA law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also provide an avenue for students to start creating contacts within the Avocado Heights CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without help. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Because laws vary from one state to another, it may be advantageous to select a paralegal school located in California or the state where you want to practice after graduation. Also, it will be important to establish relationships in the local legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the area where you choose to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to first look at those schools that are within the Avocado Heights CA region.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price depending on the credential received and the amount of training provided. However, 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 assistance may be obtainable to help minimize part of the expense, so make sure to check with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Avocado Heights CA. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online school, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while receiving their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Avocado Heights CA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you enroll in makes available that option. Last, ask what the process is for making-up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.