Things to Ask Paralegal Schools
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Franklin WI area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other significant factors to think about also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select need to be accredited by a highly regarded accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Franklin WI law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are entering the profession with no previous work history, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call several Franklin WI law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also provide a pathway for students to begin developing contacts within the Franklin WI legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without support. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Wisconsin legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ from one state to another, it may be beneficial to select a legal assistant school located in Wisconsin or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be important to build relationships in the local legal community, perhaps through 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 a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may need to initially consider those schools that are within the Franklin WI area.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in price based on the credential obtained and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Remember to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be available to help offset part of the expense, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Franklin WI. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, some of these additional costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while obtaining their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Franklin WI, make sure classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you select makes available that option. Last, inquire what the procedure is for making-up missed classes as a result of sickness, work or family emergencies.