Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can start the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Mcdonough GA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant aspects to consider also, such as 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 thoroughly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in need to be accredited by a highly regarded organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Mcdonough GA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no prior experience, since employers will need to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact several Mcdonough GA law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while attending school. They can also present a means for students to start establishing contacts within the Mcdonough GA legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering have job placement 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 Georgia legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws differ among states, it might be advantageous to choose a legal assistant school domiciled in Georgia or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the area where you wish to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may need to first consider those schools that are within the Mcdonough GA region.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in price based on the credential obtained and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be accessible to help minimize part of the cost, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Mcdonough GA. Naturally if you opt to attend an online program, some of these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Mcdonough GA, verify classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you select offers that option. Last, ask what the procedure is for making-up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family emergencies.