Things to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training options are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Live Oak 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 degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other significant aspects to think about also, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select 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 receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Live Oak CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Live Oak CA law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while still in school. They can also offer a means for students to start establishing contacts within the Live Oak CA legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, especially 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 hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that first job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary from state to state, it might be advantageous to enroll in a legal assistant school domiciled in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. Also, it will be valuable to create relationships in the local legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to first consider those schools that are within the Live Oak CA region.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in cost depending on the credential obtained 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 assistance might be available to help minimize some of the cost, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Live Oak CA. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, some of these added costs, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while getting their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Live Oak CA, make sure classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you enroll in makes available that option. Last, find out what the protocol is for making up missed classes due to work, illness or family obligations.