IP Legal Practice Assistant

Key Responsibilities

• Aid in preparing, filing, and prosecuting US patent applications, including electronic filing with the USPTO.
• Send signature documents (Power of Attorney, Assignment, and Declaration) for execution by inventors.
• Draft patent and trademark documents and correspondence.
• Send reminders to timekeepers and clients regarding upcoming deadlines.
• Manage IP docketing deadlines through CPI and other internal docket resources.
• Research and gather foreign references and non-patent literature documents, where applicable.
• Review filing receipts and notices of recordation received from USPTO for accuracy.
• Aid in all administrative aspects of IP work, including conducting searches on the USPTO website and corresponding with the USPTO to determine proper procedures and obtain information requested by attorneys or paralegals.
• Create and pull reports as needed by attorneys or paralegals from CPI.
• Maintain electronic files of all correspondence, work product and domestic and international filings in the firm’s IP document management system according to department protocols.
• Prepare, revise, and format legal documents and correspondence using various software applications and according to instructions.
• Proofread documents and correspondence for content, spelling, grammar, language usage, and punctuation, and save documents in final form.
• Manage the business intake process, submit information for and request adversary searches, draft screening memos and engagement letters, and open new files.
• Serve as a resource to teammates while demonstrating the willingness to mentor and share knowledge.
• Manage and maintain timekeepers’ calendars, including court docket deadlines, conferences, teleconferences, depositions, and other meetings as requested.

Job Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 3+ years of IP legal practice assistant experience required.
• Highly proficient in Microsoft Office software programs.
• Ability to learn and apply practice group and/or firm specific software programs, including CPI, PracticeLink and NetDocuments, at a proficient level.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team structure.
• Ability to cooperate, work and communicate effectively and professionally with firm clients and firm personnel at all levels on the telephone, video, email, as well as in-person.
• Ability to organize and prioritize numerous tasks and complete them under time constraints according to any applicable internal or external deadlines.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and shift attention from one area of work to another quickly and effectively.
• Ability to deliver exceptional client service, demonstrate flexibility, adapt to changes, and be team oriented.
• Strong grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and language skills are necessary as well as an understanding of legal terminology.

Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health care coverage (medical, dental, and vision), life insurance, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, employee wellbeing and EAP programs, paid time off, and a 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching and profit-sharing.