Points to Ask Paralegal Schools
Once you have a better understanding regarding 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 community and junior colleges in the Mckinleyville CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must find out what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other important issues to consider as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you choose should be accredited by a respected accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Mckinleyville CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are usually obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact several Mckinleyville CA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also provide a pathway for students to start creating contacts within the Mckinleyville CA legal field. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without help. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering 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 great relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws differ among states, it may be advantageous to select a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you want to work after graduation. In addition, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to obtain your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may want to initially consider those colleges that are within the Mckinleyville CA region.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in cost based on the credential received and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be available to help minimize some of the expense, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Mckinleyville CA. Naturally if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Many paralegal students keep working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Mckinleyville CA, verify classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you enroll in provides that option. Finally, find out what the procedure is for making-up missed classes because of sickness, work or family emergencies.