What to Ask Paralegal Programs
Since you now you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Sunnyvale CA area, as well as vocational and trade 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 also. If you are like most potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other critical aspects to research also, for instance 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 researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose need to be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Sunnyvale CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Sunnyvale CA law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even when a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while attending school. They can also offer a means for students to begin establishing contacts within the Sunnyvale CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary from one state to another, it might be beneficial to select a legal assistant school domiciled in California or the state where you want to work after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to cultivate relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more justification to acquire your education in the community where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may want to initially investigate those schools that are within the Sunnyvale CA area.
How Much is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in cost depending on the credential obtained and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be available to help minimize part of the expense, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Sunnyvale CA. Naturally if you choose to attend an online school, some of these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while getting their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Sunnyvale CA, make sure classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you enroll in offers that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family obligations.