Points to Ask Paralegal Schools
Since you now you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what training options are offered, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the San Luis Obispo CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other important aspects to think about as well, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program 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 can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many San Luis Obispo CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically available only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are new to the profession with no prior experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some San Luis Obispo CA law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while attending school. They can also offer an avenue for students to start developing contacts within the San Luis Obispo CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement 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 well regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws differ from one state to another, it might be advantageous to choose a paralegal school located in California or the state where you want to work after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the community where you want to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may need to initially consider those colleges that are within the San Luis Obispo CA region.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can differ in price depending on the credential earned and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be accessible to help offset part of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in San Luis Obispo CA. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near San Luis Obispo CA, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you choose provides that option. Finally, inquire what the process is for making up classes missed because of sickness, work or family obligations.