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 this 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 work on a broad range of trademark matters, manage sophisticated portfolios, and serve as a trusted resource to attorneys and clients alike.

We are looking for a proactive, detail-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced setting, enjoys taking ownership of their work, and values collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. This position can be located in our Chicago, Madison, Milwaukee, or Waukesha offices.

Responsibilities

• 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

Requirements

• A 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 (experience with Anaqua is a plus)
• Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail
• The ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines effectively, work independently, and collaborate with a team
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Valid authorization to work in the U.S.

A bachelor’s degree or a paralegal certificate is highly preferred.

Skills

• 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
• Ability to learn and embrace new skills and best practices as the position evolves
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Ability to develop relationships and foster teamwork at all levels of the firm
• Ability to identify and analyze issues, make decisions, and initiate actions or solutions
• Demonstrated "client first" mentality and professionalism

About the Company

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is a full-service law firm with more than 350 lawyers and technical professionals who work in collaborative, interdisciplinary practices to serve clients around the world. We work with companies in all kinds of industries, as well as trade associations, nonprofits, educational institutions, governments, family trusts, and high-net-worth individuals. Since our firm’s founding in 1848, we’ve continuously evolved to meet our clients’ changing needs while maintaining a commitment to exceptional legal service and business acumen.

Benefits

Michael Best offers a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that includes:

• Competitive base pay
• Outstanding benefits, including medical, dental, vision, as well as elective/voluntary life, disability, and accident coverage
• Opportunities for learning and growth
• Perks that inspire downtime
• Eligibility to participate in the firm's 401k plan

Pay

For Illinois applicants, the annual compensation range for this position in our Chicago office is between $55,000 and $110,000. Compensation is determined based on qualifications and experience.