What to Ask Paralegal Schools
Once you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what training choices are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the Wright FL area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other significant issues to consider as well, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick need to be accredited by a highly regarded organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance education. Accreditation will not only certify 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 as well. Many Wright FL law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no prior work history, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact a few Wright FL law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while remaining in school. They can also offer a means for students to begin creating contacts within the Wright FL legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that first job in a new field can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws vary among states, it might be advantageous to choose a legal assistant school domiciled in Florida or the state where you want to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the area 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 need to first consider those schools that are within the Wright FL region.
How Much is the Entire Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price 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 assistance may be available to help reduce part of the cost, so be sure to check with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Wright FL. Of course if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while getting their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Wright FL, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you select makes available that option. Finally, inquire what the procedure is for making up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.