Points to Ask Paralegal Schools
Now that you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But because there are so many programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Brawley CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most prospective 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 aspects to consider as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select need to be accredited by a highly regarded organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can 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 receive will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Brawley CA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are new to the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact several Brawley CA law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs give 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 begin developing contacts within the Brawley CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement 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 graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws differ from state to state, it might be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school domiciled in California or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more justification to receive your education in the community where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may need to first consider those schools that are within the Brawley CA area.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in cost depending on the credential earned and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to include 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 be sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Brawley CA. Of course if you opt to attend an online school, a portion these additional expenses, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while obtaining their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Brawley CA, verify classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you select makes available that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making-up classes missed due to sickness, work or family emergencies.