Things to Ask Paralegal Schools
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training choices are offered, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Orange CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like most potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other significant aspects to think about as well, 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 effectively vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select need to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online education. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Orange CA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are usually accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are entering the profession with no previous work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Orange CA law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also present an avenue for students to start creating contacts within the Orange CA legal field. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will most likely want to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws differ among states, it may be beneficial to select a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you plan to work after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to build relationships in the area legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the community where you desire to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may want to first look at those colleges that are within the Orange CA region.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can differ in cost depending on the credential received and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be obtainable to help offset some of the expense, so don't forget to check with the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Orange CA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, some of these supplementary expenses, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Orange CA, verify classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you choose makes available that option. Finally, inquire what the protocol is for making-up classes missed due to sickness, work or family obligations.