Paralegal

Job Description

The Patent Paralegal will provide comprehensive support to attorneys in all aspects of patent prosecution, both domestic and international. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of patent law, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to manage complex tasks with meticulous attention to detail.

Responsibilities:

Patent Prosecution:

Prepare and file patent applications (utility, design, and plant) with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Manage the prosecution of patent applications, including monitoring deadlines, preparing responses to office actions, and coordinating with attorneys.

Prepare and file PCT applications and handle all phases of PCT prosecution.

Coordinate with foreign associates for international patent filings and prosecution.

Prepare formal documents, such as assignments, declarations, and powers of attorney.

Maintain a thorough understanding of USPTO rules and procedures, as well as foreign patent office procedures.

Docketing and Case Management:

Maintain and update patent dockets, ensuring all deadlines are accurately recorded and monitored.

Generate docket reports and provide timely reminders to attorneys regarding upcoming deadlines.

Manage and organize electronic and physical patent files.

Client Communication:

Communicate with clients to provide status updates, request information, and respond to inquiries.

Prepare reports for clients regarding the status of their patent applications.

Information Management:

Conduct patent searches using USPTO databases and other resources.

Organize and manage prior art.

Prepare Information Disclosure Statements (IDS).

Administrative Support:

Assist attorneys with various administrative tasks related to patent prosecution.

Prepare correspondence and other legal documents.

Handle billing and invoicing related to patent matters.

Employees have access to a comprehensive benefits package, including medical (employer-paid option), dental, vision, life/AD& D, and STD and LTD disability, a health savings account with employer contributions, pet insurance, and a 401k retirement plan.

• A minimum of 4 years of experience as a patent prosecution paralegal, preferably in a law firm or corporate intellectual property department.

• A paralegal certification or degree in paralegal studies is preferred.

• Strong knowledge of USPTO procedures, e-filing systems (such as Patent Center), and international patent filing processes.

• Proficiency with systems like Anaqua, Foundation IP, CPi, ProLaw, NetDocs, iManage, or similar tools, as well as legal research platforms.

Full-time