Points to Ask Paralegal Schools
Since you now you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training choices are offered, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Brookhaven GA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must know 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 also. If you are like most prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other significant issues to think about also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a highly regarded accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Brookhaven GA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact several Brookhaven GA law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even if a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also offer a pathway for students to begin establishing contacts within the Brookhaven GA legal field. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without help. Find out 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 good relationships with Georgia legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws vary from state to state, it may be beneficial to select a paralegal school domiciled in Georgia or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. Also, it will be important 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 area where you wish to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may wish to initially look at those colleges that are within the Brookhaven GA region.
How Much is the Total Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be obtainable to help minimize part of the expense, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Brookhaven GA. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these added expenses, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate 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 Brookhaven GA, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you choose offers that option. Finally, ask what the procedure is for making-up classes missed because of work, illness or family emergencies.