Points to Ask Paralegal Schools
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training choices are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Durango CO area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other critical aspects to consider also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Durango CO law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Durango CO law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while attending school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the Durango CO legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will most likely want to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Colorado legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws vary from one state to another, it might be advantageous to choose a paralegal school domiciled in Colorado or the state where you plan to work after graduation. Also, it will be valuable to establish relationships in the area 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, many charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to initially look at those schools that are within the Durango CO area.
How Much is the Entire Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in price depending on the credential received and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be available to help reduce some of the expense, so don't forget to check with the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Durango CO. Naturally if you opt to attend an online school, some of these added costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while obtaining their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Durango CO, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you enroll in makes available that option. Last, inquire what the process is for making-up classes missed due to sickness, work or family obligations.