Does it matter if a paralegal program isn't ABA approved?
Particularly in the state of Florida. I asked this question before and all I received were negative,rude, comments stating a paralegal is a 'low budget attorney'. Fine If that's what I want to do so be it. This question is mostly geared toward paralegals and attorneys. Thanks.
Comments
No, a paralegal; isn;t a low budget attorney. However,. beware, without an endorsement or an approval as you mention, one might question whether this program is a valid, legitimate, respected program, or it is nothing more than a certificate mill; which basically takes your money and gives you a certificate which is all but worthless.
You should ask, " if it isn't approved, why not?" A call to your local bar association might save you a lot of money and heartache.
Ask them if the program is respected or not.
Depends what your goals are. Do you want to work for a law office or for a law firm? It is at the firms it would matter if you went to an ABA certified approved program or the offices with more than one attorney. I can tell you from personal experience and friends experiences those who went to ABA approved paralegal programs were hired much faster.
If it is not an approved program. You are wasting your time. If your resume came across my desk from a program that was not approved it would go in the trash......