What to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs available at community and junior colleges in the East Norwalk CT area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other important aspects to research as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance education. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous East Norwalk CT law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually accessible only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no previous work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some East Norwalk CT law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while attending school. They can also provide a pathway for students to start developing contacts within the East Norwalk CT legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Connecticut legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Because laws vary from one state to another, it may be beneficial to select a legal assistant school domiciled in Connecticut or the state where you want to practice after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to obtain your education in the area where you choose to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may wish to initially investigate those schools that are within the East Norwalk CT region.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in cost depending on the credential received and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be accessible to help reduce some of the expense, so be sure to contact the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in East Norwalk CT. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near East Norwalk CT, verify classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you choose provides that option. Finally, inquire what the protocol is for making up missed classes because of sickness, work or family obligations.