Points to Ask Paralegal Programs
Now that you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can start the process of assessing schools. But since there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Four Corners FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate 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 previously covered, there are other critical aspects to think about also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Program and School 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 can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Four Corners FL law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no prior experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you choose is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Four Corners FL law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also provide a means for students to start creating contacts within the Four Corners FL legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that first job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Because laws differ from state to state, it may be beneficial to enroll in a paralegal school domiciled in Florida or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. Also, it will be valuable to build relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the community where you want to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to first look at those schools that are within the Four Corners FL area.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in price based on the credential received and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be available to help minimize some of the expense, so make sure to check with the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Four Corners FL. Naturally if you opt to attend an online program, some of these additional expenses, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while obtaining their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Four Corners FL, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you choose offers that option. Finally, find out what the procedure is for making up missed classes because of sickness, work or family emergencies.