What to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Now that you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training choices are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Monterey Park CA area, in addition to 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 certificate and degree programs also. If you are like the majority of 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 crucial aspects to think about also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a highly regarded organization 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 distance or online education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Monterey Park CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are often offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are new to the profession with no prior work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Monterey Park CA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even if a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while attending school. They can also offer a means for students to start developing contacts within the Monterey Park CA legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding 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 success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws vary from state to state, it might be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school domiciled in California or the state where you wish to work after graduating. Also, it will be valuable to create relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to receive your education in the community where you want to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may wish to first investigate those schools that are within the Monterey Park CA area.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in cost depending on the credential received and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be accessible to help offset part of the cost, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Monterey Park CA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, some of these added costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Monterey Park CA, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the program you choose makes available that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.