What to Ask Paralegal Programs
Since you now you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Hercules CA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must find out what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other critical aspects to consider also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few 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 Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick need to be accredited by a highly regarded accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Hercules CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically available only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of special 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 training exclusively. Checking that the school you select 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 contact several Hercules CA law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also present a means for students to begin creating contacts within the Hercules CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws vary among states, it may be a good idea to enroll in a paralegal school located in California or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to cultivate relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the area where you desire to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to first consider those colleges that are within the Hercules CA region.
How Much is the Total Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in cost based on the credential received and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be accessible to help minimize some of the cost, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Hercules CA. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, some of these added costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while obtaining their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Hercules CA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you choose offers that option. Last, ask what the protocol is for making up missed classes because of work, illness or family obligations.