Things to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Now that you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what training options are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Menifee CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. 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 previously discussed, there are other critical factors to think about also, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a highly regarded accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Menifee CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program you select is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact some Menifee CA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal enterprise while remaining in school. They can also present an avenue for students to begin developing contacts within the Menifee CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that first job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Because laws differ from one state to another, it may be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you want to practice after graduating. Also, it will be important to develop relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the community where you wish to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to first investigate those schools that are within the Menifee CA region.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in cost based on the credential received and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Remember to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be available to help minimize part of the cost, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Menifee CA. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, some of these added expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while obtaining their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Menifee CA, make sure classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you select provides that option. Finally, find out what the procedure is for making up classes missed due to work, illness or family obligations.