Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs available at junior and community colleges in the La Crescenta Montrose CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can 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 potential students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other crucial issues to think about also, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you choose need to be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous La Crescenta Montrose 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 schools.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact several La Crescenta Montrose 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 when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also present a means for students to start establishing contacts within the La Crescenta Montrose CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after 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 interviewing 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 great relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Because laws differ among states, it might be beneficial to enroll in a legal assistant school domiciled in California or the state where you wish to work after graduation. Also, it will be important to establish relationships in the local legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more justification to obtain your education in the community where you desire to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to initially consider those colleges that are within the La Crescenta Montrose CA region.
What is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be available to help minimize some of the cost, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in La Crescenta Montrose CA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online program, some of these additional expenses, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near La Crescenta Montrose CA, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you choose provides that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making up classes missed due to sickness, work or family obligations.