What to Ask Paralegal Schools
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training choices are offered, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But since there are so many programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Hialeah Gardens FL area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can 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 prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other important aspects to consider also, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose need to be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Hialeah Gardens FL law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are usually available only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are considering. This is of specific 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. Confirming that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Hialeah Gardens FL law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Keep 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 give students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while still in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin developing contacts within the Hialeah Gardens FL legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good 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 School's Location? Considering that laws vary from one state to another, it might be a good idea to enroll in a legal assistant school domiciled in Florida or the state where you want to practice after graduating. Also, it will be valuable to build relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the area where you want to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to first investigate those schools that are within the Hialeah Gardens FL area.
What is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in cost based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Remember to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be accessible to help offset part of the expense, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Hialeah Gardens FL. Of course if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of paralegal students continue working while getting their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Hialeah Gardens FL, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you choose makes available that option. Last, ask what the process is for making up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.