Things to Ask Paralegal Programs
Once you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Doral FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. 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 covered, there are other significant aspects to research also, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you choose need to be accredited by a reputable organization 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 distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Doral FL law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are new to the profession with no previous experience, since employers will need to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call several Doral FL law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also offer an avenue for students to begin establishing contacts within the Doral FL legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary from one state to another, it may be beneficial to enroll in a paralegal school located in Florida or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. Also, it will be important to develop relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the area where you want to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might need to initially consider those schools that are within the Doral FL area.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in cost depending on the credential earned and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be available to help minimize some of the expense, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Doral FL. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Doral FL, make sure classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you select provides that option. Last, find out what the procedure is for making up classes missed due to sickness, work or family obligations.