Trademark Paralegal

About the Role

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is seeking an experienced Trademark Paralegal to join our collaborative and nationally recognized Brand Protection Team. As a key member of our Brand Protection Team, you will play an integral role throughout the trademark lifecycle, helping clients protect and strengthen their brands in the U.S. and around the world. You'll have the opportunity to work on a broad range of trademark matters, manage sophisticated portfolios, and serve as a trusted resource to attorneys and clients alike.

What You'll Be Doing

• Manage and maintain a large docket of domestic and international trademark portfolios, including monitoring deadlines and ensuring timely filings
• Prepare and file trademark applications, responses to office actions, statements of use, renewals, assignments, and other relevant documents with the USPTO and WIPO
• Coordinate with foreign associates on international trademark matters, ensuring compliance with local regulations and procedures
• Conduct comprehensive trademark clearance searches and analyze search results
• Manage an internal docket of trademarks and create docket reports
• Coordinate worldwide trademark assignment filings
• Independently communicate with clients regarding trademark portfolio updates and deadlines
• Prepare and file U.S. copyright and U.S. Customs applications
• Prepare trademark filing estimates and budgets
• Assist with intellectual property audits and due diligence
• Stay abreast of changes in trademark law and practice

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5+ years of dedicated experience as a Trademark Paralegal, preferably in a medium or large size law firm or corporate legal department
• A strong understanding of U.S. and international trademark law, rules, and procedures
• Extensive experience with USPTO's online filing systems, TMEP and other relevant online resources
• Proficiency in managing trademark portfolios using specialized docketing software (Anaqua experience is a plus)
• Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines effectively, work independently and with a team
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• A bachelor's degree or a paralegal certificate is highly preferred
• Valid authorization to work in the U.S.

Skills & Competencies

• Adaptability: Ability to learn and embrace new skills and best practices as the position evolves and Firm needs change; ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines; ability to work well independently as well as effectively within a team
• Collaboration: Ability to develop relationships and foster teamwork at all levels of the Firm; communicate ideas for process efficiencies
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with a diverse group of internal and external clients, attorneys, and staff; excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to manage confidential information and sensitive situations with tact and discretion
• Problem Solving: Ability and confidence to identify and analyze issues, make decisions, and initiate actions/solutions; ability to respond to unexpected challenges, including proactively developing innovative solutions to complex problems while maintaining a professional demeanor
• Professionalism: Demonstrate "client first" mentality; ability to maintain composure and demonstrate good judgment

Location

This position can be located in our Chicago, Madison, Milwaukee or Waukesha offices.