What to Ask Paralegal Schools
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Westchase FL area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must find out what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like many prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other critical issues to consider also, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick need to be accredited by a highly regarded accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Westchase FL law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Westchase FL law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even if a school is not the most highly rated, 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 firm or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to start establishing contacts within the Westchase FL legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing 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 most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws vary among states, it might be advantageous to enroll in a legal assistant school located in Florida or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. Also, it will be important to cultivate relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the community where you want to work. Also, if you attend 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 schools that are within the Westchase FL area.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in cost based on the credential received and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be obtainable to help reduce some of the expense, so make sure to check with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Westchase FL. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these added expenses, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? A number of paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Westchase FL, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the school you select offers that option. Finally, find out what the procedure is for making-up classes missed due to work, illness or family obligations.