Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Commerce CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other significant issues to research also, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a reputable organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Commerce CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often available only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no previous work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Commerce CA law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while attending school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the Commerce CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that first job in a new field can be challenging without support. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws vary from one state to another, it might be a good idea to select a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you wish to work after graduation. Also, it will be valuable to develop relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more reason to receive your education in the area 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 wish to initially investigate those schools that are within the Commerce CA area.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be obtainable to help offset part of the expense, so be sure to check with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Commerce CA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these added expenses, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while obtaining their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Commerce CA, verify classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you choose provides that option. Last, find out what the protocol is for making up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.