Questions to Ask Paralegal Programs
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Lithia Springs GA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask in order to 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 many prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other significant factors to consider as well, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select should be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online education. 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 Lithia Springs GA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Verifying that the school you choose 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 some Lithia Springs GA law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also provide a pathway for students to begin creating contacts within the Lithia Springs GA legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without support. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Georgia legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws differ among states, it may be a good idea to choose a paralegal school domiciled in Georgia or the state where you want to work after graduating. Also, it will be important to create relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the community where you desire to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to first consider those schools that are within the Lithia Springs GA area.
What is the Total Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in cost depending on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be accessible to help minimize part of the cost, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Lithia Springs GA. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, some of these added expenses, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Lithia Springs GA, make sure classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you select offers that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making up missed classes due to sickness, work or family obligations.