Things to Ask Paralegal Programs
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Vincent CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to find out what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other critical issues to research as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose need to be accredited by a highly regarded organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also receive 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 obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Vincent CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Verifying that the program you select is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact some Vincent CA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also present a pathway for students to begin establishing contacts within the Vincent CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are evaluating provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication 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 Campus Located? Because laws vary from state to state, it may be advantageous to select a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be important to cultivate relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to obtain your education in the community where you want 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 may want to first consider those colleges that are within the Vincent CA area.
How Much is the Entire Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in cost based on the credential earned and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be available to help reduce part of the cost, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Vincent CA. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online school, some of these supplementary costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while getting their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Vincent CA, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you enroll in makes available that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.