Points to Ask Paralegal Schools
Once you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Hunters Creek FL area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can evaluate 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 looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant aspects to research also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some 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 decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select need to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Hunters Creek 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 schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no prior work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Hunters Creek FL law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also offer a means for students to begin creating contacts within the Hunters Creek FL legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job placement 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 differ among states, it may be a good idea to enroll in a legal assistant school domiciled in Florida or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. Also, it will be valuable to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the area where you wish to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to first investigate those colleges that are within the Hunters Creek FL region.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be obtainable to help minimize some of the cost, so be sure to contact the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Hunters Creek FL. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, some of these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while obtaining their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Hunters Creek FL, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the school you select offers that option. Last, ask what the protocol is for making-up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.