What to Ask Paralegal Schools
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Pewaukee 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 when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like many 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 critical aspects to think about as well, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you should be asking the programs you are investigating 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 pick should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Pewaukee WI law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are new to the field with no prior work history, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program you pick is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call a few Pewaukee WI law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also offer a pathway for students to start creating contacts within the Pewaukee WI legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will most likely want to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Wisconsin legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws differ from state to state, it may be a good idea to select a paralegal school located in Wisconsin or the state where you plan to work after graduating. Also, it will be important to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to acquire your education in the area where you want to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may need to initially look at those schools that are within the Pewaukee WI area.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in price depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be available to help minimize some of the expense, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Pewaukee WI. Of course if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these additional costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Pewaukee WI, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the school you enroll in makes available that option. Finally, ask what the process is for making-up missed classes because of work, illness or family emergencies.