Things to Ask Paralegal Schools
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Eustis FL area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must find out what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. 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 already discussed, there are other important factors to research also, such as 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 investigating so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a respected organization 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 get will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Eustis FL law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are usually obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Program'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 new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Eustis FL law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while attending school. They can also present an avenue for students to begin establishing contacts within the Eustis FL legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws vary among states, it may be advantageous to choose a legal assistant school located in Florida or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be important to develop relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to receive your education in the area where you wish 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 look at those colleges that are within the Eustis FL area.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in price based on the credential received and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be obtainable to help offset part of the cost, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Eustis FL. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while receiving their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Eustis 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 offers that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making-up missed classes due to work, illness or family emergencies.