What to Ask Paralegal Schools
Now that you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what training options are offered, you can start the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Homestead FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like most prospective 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 critical issues to think about as well, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some 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 School and Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a highly regarded 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 targets online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Homestead FL law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are usually available 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 entering the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Checking that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call a few Homestead FL law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even when a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while attending school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the Homestead FL legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws vary among states, it might be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school domiciled in Florida or the state where you wish to work after graduating. Also, it will be important to establish relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more justification to receive your education in the area where you wish to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to initially investigate those colleges that are within the Homestead FL region.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal programs can differ in cost depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help minimize part of the expense, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Homestead FL. Naturally if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Homestead FL, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you enroll in provides that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making-up missed classes due to sickness, work or family obligations.