Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what educational options are available, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs available at community and junior colleges in the Fillmore CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other critical factors to research also, 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 effectively vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in need to be accredited by a highly regarded organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Fillmore CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools 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 caliber of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call a few Fillmore CA law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also present a pathway for students to start creating contacts within the Fillmore CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will probably wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high 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 students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws vary from one state to another, it may be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to build relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to obtain your education in the community where you want to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might wish to first look at those colleges that are within the Fillmore CA area.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential earned and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be obtainable to help offset some of the cost, so make sure to contact the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Fillmore CA. Naturally if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while getting their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Fillmore CA, make sure classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you enroll in provides that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making-up missed classes because of sickness, work or family obligations.