Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can start the process of assessing schools. But because there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the San Pedro CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other critical factors to think about also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous San Pedro CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are usually obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the school you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call several San Pedro CA law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even when a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also provide a pathway for students to begin developing contacts within the San Pedro CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Because laws vary from state to state, it may be a good idea to select a legal assistant school domiciled in California or the state where you want to work after graduation. In addition, it will be necessary to cultivate relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the community where you choose to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may want to first consider those colleges that are within the San Pedro CA area.
What is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in cost depending on the credential earned and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be obtainable to help offset part of the cost, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in San Pedro CA. Of course if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while getting their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near San Pedro CA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you enroll in makes available that option. Last, ask what the procedure is for making-up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.