A paralegal is a person who has received specialized training through formal education or many years of work experience; works under the supervision and direction of an attorney; and performs non-clerical, substantive legal work in assisting an attorney (source: National Association of Legal Assistants). HCC's Paralegal Program offers several options for students: they can take selected classes for career advancement or professional development, or they can choose to complete a certificate or associate degree to prepare for entry-level employment or university transfer.