Things to Ask Paralegal Programs
Now that you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the San Diego CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other critical aspects to consider as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick need to be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also obtain 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 receive will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous San Diego CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often accessible only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are new to the profession with no prior experience, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several San Diego CA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin establishing contacts within the San Diego CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession can be challenging without support. 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 a good indication that the schools have large networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws differ from one state to another, it might be advantageous to enroll in a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be important to create relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more reason to receive your education in the community where you choose to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to initially investigate those schools that are within the San Diego CA area.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in price based on the credential obtained and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help reduce some of the expense, so be sure to check with the school's financial aid department to see what is available in San Diego CA. Naturally if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Many legal students keep working while getting their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near San Diego 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 choose makes available that option. Last, find out what the process is for making up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.