What to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the East Lake Orient Park FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to know what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. 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 already covered, there are other important issues to consider as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance education. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of East Lake Orient Park FL law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically available only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant schools you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Checking that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact several East Lake Orient Park FL law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even when a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to start developing contacts within the East Lake Orient Park FL legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new field can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ from one state to another, it might be a good idea to choose a paralegal school located in Florida or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to establish relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to first look at those schools that are within the East Lake Orient Park FL area.
How Much is the Entire Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help offset part of the cost, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in East Lake Orient Park FL. Of course if you opt to attend an online school, some of these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near East Lake Orient Park FL, verify classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you select provides that option. Finally, find out what the procedure is for making-up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.