Things to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are so many programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Sarasota FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to find out what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like many 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 critical aspects to consider as well, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select should be accredited by a highly regarded accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also obtain 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 receive will be of the highest quality, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Sarasota FL law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact several Sarasota FL law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also offer an avenue for students to start establishing contacts within the Sarasota FL legal field. Ask if the paralegal schools you are evaluating offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary among states, it might be beneficial to enroll in a legal assistant school located in Florida or the state where you plan to work after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to establish relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the area where you choose 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 want to initially consider those colleges that are within the Sarasota FL region.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in cost depending on the credential received and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be obtainable to help reduce some of the expense, so be sure to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Sarasota FL. Of course if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while obtaining their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Sarasota FL, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you select provides that option. Last, ask what the protocol is for making-up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.