Points to Ask Paralegal Programs
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training choices are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Corcoran CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like many prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant aspects to consider also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose need to be accredited by a respected accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Corcoran CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no prior experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Corcoran CA law offices 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 among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while still in school. They can also offer a pathway for students to begin establishing contacts within the Corcoran CA legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that first job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws differ among states, it may be a good idea to select a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be valuable to develop relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the community where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may need to first investigate those colleges that are within the Corcoran CA area.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in cost based on the credential obtained and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be obtainable to help offset part of the expense, so make sure to check with the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Corcoran CA. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online program, some of these added expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Corcoran CA, make certain classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you select makes available that option. Finally, ask what the procedure is for making up classes missed because of work, illness or family obligations.