Things to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But since there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Lennox CA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate 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 start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other crucial 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 investigating so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee 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. Many Lennox CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no previous work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact several Lennox CA law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to start developing contacts within the Lennox CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws vary from state to state, it may be advantageous to select a paralegal school located in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduation. Also, it will be important to build 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 want to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge 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 Lennox CA region.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training provided. Having said that, 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 also. Financial assistance might be available to help offset part of the cost, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Lennox CA. Naturally if you decide to attend an online school, some of these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? A number of paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Lennox CA, verify classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you enroll in offers that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making-up classes missed due to sickness, work or family obligations.