Points to Ask Paralegal Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training choices are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Clayton CA area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other critical aspects to research as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance education. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Clayton CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are entering the profession with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Checking that the program you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact a few Clayton CA law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while attending school. They can also present a means for students to begin establishing contacts within the Clayton CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? 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 help. Ask 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 sign 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's Location? Because laws vary among states, it may be a good idea to enroll in a legal assistant school domiciled in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to build relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the community where you choose to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to first look at those colleges that are within the Clayton CA region.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can differ in price based on the credential earned and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help reduce some of the expense, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Clayton CA. Naturally if you opt to attend an online school, a portion these additional expenses, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Clayton CA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you select provides that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.