Points to Ask Paralegal Schools
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Foothill Farms CA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other crucial aspects to think about as well, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select need to be accredited by a reputable organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Foothill Farms CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of special importance if you are new to the profession with no prior experience, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Foothill Farms CA law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even though a school is not the most highly rated, 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 practice or other legal operation while attending school. They can also present a means for students to start developing contacts within the Foothill Farms CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing 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 undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding 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. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws differ among states, it may be advantageous to enroll in a paralegal school located in California or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might wish to first look at those schools that are within the Foothill Farms CA area.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price depending on the credential received and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Remember to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be accessible to help offset part of the cost, so be sure to talk to the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Foothill Farms CA. Of course if you decide to attend an online program, some of these added costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Foothill Farms CA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the school you choose makes available that option. Last, find out what the procedure is for making up classes missed because of work, illness or family emergencies.