Things to Ask Paralegal Programs
Since you now you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Lemon Grove CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like many prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other important issues to research as well, for instance 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 thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also receive 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 get will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Lemon Grove CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually available only for accredited schools.
What's the Program's Reputation? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no prior experience, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact several Lemon Grove CA law practices 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 rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the Lemon Grove CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws vary from state to state, it might be a good idea to choose a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the local legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to receive your education in the community where you desire to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might wish to first investigate those schools that are within the Lemon Grove CA area.
What is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in cost depending on the credential obtained and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help reduce some of the expense, so make sure to contact the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Lemon Grove CA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online program, some of these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while getting their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Lemon Grove CA, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you enroll in offers that option. Finally, find out what the procedure is for making up classes missed because of sickness, work or family emergencies.