Things to Ask Paralegal Schools
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training choices are available, you can start the process of assessing schools. But since there are numerous programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Norcross GA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like most potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other crucial issues to research as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you enroll in need to be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Norcross GA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically offered only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are new to the profession with no prior experience, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Norcross GA law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also present a pathway for students to begin creating contacts within the Norcross GA legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be challenging 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 large networks and great relationships with Georgia legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary from one state to another, it might be a good idea to choose a paralegal school domiciled in Georgia or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to cultivate relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more justification to acquire your education in the area where you want to practice. 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 might wish to initially investigate those schools that are within the Norcross GA area.
How Much is the Entire Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential received and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be obtainable to help minimize some of the expense, so don't forget to check with the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Norcross GA. Naturally if you opt to attend an online program, some of these added expenses, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while obtaining their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Norcross GA, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you enroll in provides that option. Last, find out what the process is for making up missed classes because of work, illness or family obligations.