What to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training choices are offered, you can start the process of assessing schools. But because there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Palm City FL area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must 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 as well. If you are like most potential students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other crucial aspects to think about also, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you choose should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, 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 quality, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Palm City FL law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are usually offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are entering the profession with no prior work history, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Palm City FL law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also provide a pathway for students to begin creating contacts within the Palm City FL legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without help. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement 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 corroborates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Because laws differ from state to state, it may be a good idea to choose a paralegal school located in Florida or the state where you wish to work after graduation. In addition, it will be important to cultivate relationships in the local legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the area where you want to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might wish to initially consider those schools that are within the Palm City FL region.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be accessible to help reduce part of the expense, so make sure to contact the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Palm City FL. Naturally if you choose to attend an online program, some of these added costs, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Palm City FL, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you select offers that option. Finally, find out what the procedure is for making up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family emergencies.