What to Ask Paralegal Programs
Now that you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Glendale CA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other significant issues to research as well, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in need to 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 training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Glendale CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are usually obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are entering the profession with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact some Glendale CA law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, 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 remaining in school. They can also offer a means for students to start establishing contacts within the Glendale CA legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that first job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial 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 Located? Because laws vary from state to state, it may be beneficial to select a paralegal school located in California or the state where you want to work after graduation. In addition, it will be valuable to develop relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the area where you choose to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may need to initially look at those colleges that are within the Glendale CA region.
What is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential received and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be available to help offset part of the expense, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Glendale CA. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Glendale CA, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you enroll in makes available that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making up classes missed because of work, illness or family emergencies.