Points to Ask Paralegal Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training options are offered, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But since there are so many programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Lockhart FL area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other important factors to think about also, 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 effectively vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Lockhart FL law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no prior experience, since employers will need to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Lockhart FL law firms 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 may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Sponsor 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 establishing contacts within the Lockhart FL legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Because laws vary from one state to another, it might be advantageous to enroll in a legal assistant school located in Florida or the state where you wish to work after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to establish relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to receive your education in the area where you choose to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to first consider those schools that are within the Lockhart FL area.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in price depending on the credential earned and the length 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 as well. Financial assistance may be available to help reduce part of the expense, so don't forget to check with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Lockhart FL. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, some of these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while getting their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Lockhart FL, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you select provides that option. Finally, inquire what the protocol is for making up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.