Points to Ask Paralegal Programs
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational choices are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the Pinecrest FL area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must find out what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other important issues to research also, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select need to be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Pinecrest FL law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you choose is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call some Pinecrest FL law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also provide a means for students to start establishing contacts within the Pinecrest FL legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new field can be difficult without help. Find out if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws vary from one state to another, it may be beneficial to choose a legal assistant school located in Florida or the state where you plan to work after graduation. In addition, it will be valuable to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the community where you desire to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to first investigate those schools that are within the Pinecrest FL area.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price depending on the credential received and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be obtainable to help reduce part of the expense, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Pinecrest FL. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Pinecrest FL, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the school you select makes available that option. Last, ask what the protocol is for making-up classes missed because of sickness, work or family emergencies.