This Intellectual Property (IP) Paralegal role provides legal and general support to the firm's attorneys and their clients, focusing on the perfection and enforcement of patents, trademarks, and copyrights. The position requires familiarity with and observance of the firm's established policies and guidelines, maintaining positive contact with various stakeholders, and observing confidentiality.
Responsibilities
Prepare, file, and support the prosecution and maintenance of domestic and international trademark applications and portfolios, including Madrid Protocol filings, Paris Convention priority claims, renewals, and coordination with foreign associates
Prepare, file, and support the prosecution and maintenance of domestic and international patent applications and portfolios, including Patent Center filings, and coordination with foreign associates
Conduct trademark searches using relevant trademark databases and research tools
Assist with responses to USPTO office actions, letters of protest, and inter partes proceedings before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB)
Support intellectual property due diligence, including the review and organization of IP-related records and documentation
Maintain accurate docketing records and monitor deadlines to ensure timely completion of filings and other required actions across the IP team
Interpret and apply applicable U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) rules, procedures, and filing requirements
Coordinate with foreign associates, clients, and internal team members to facilitate the efficient management of international IP matters
Proactively address client needs, communicate updates, and help ensure responsive, high-quality client service
Use and maintain IP docketing and matter management systems, including PATTSY; familiarity with PracticeLink is a plus
Accommodate after-hours filings and time-sensitive deadlines as needed
Perform additional administrative and IP-related duties as assigned
Requirements
Undergraduate degree
Seven to ten years of prior intellectual property practice experience
Knowledge of USPTO Patent Center and patent filing process
Knowledge of Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) documentation and filing requirements
General office and administrative experience
Strong organizational, time-management, and attention-to-detail skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency with current office software and database applications, including Microsoft Access or comparable database software
Familiarity with USPTO databases and trademark research tools, including Saegis and Corsearch
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Tailored applications submitted
Familiarity with corporate entities, transactional documentation, due diligence, or securities-related matters
Ability to conduct research, follow established procedures, and learn new concepts quickly
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel; familiarity with electronic document management systems is preferred
Ability to collaborate effectively with attorneys, clients, colleagues, and outside service providers
Self-motivated and dependable, with the ability to take initiative, work independently, and recognize when guidance is needed
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive information
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and perform tasks requiring prolonged and/or extensive computer use
Ability to use computers, telecommunications, and digital collaboration tools to perform core job responsibilities
Ability to communicate effectively
Ability to maintain attention to detail while analyzing complex information, managing multiple priorities, and applying sound judgment to decisions
Travel for meetings and training as required
Ability to work extended hours as required to meet project, client, or business needs
Nice to have:
Intellectual property (IP) training and/or a paralegal certificate
Benefits
401(k) Retirement Plan
Medical Insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Virtual Health Services
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Accident Insurance
Hospital Indemnity Insurance
Critical Illness Insurance
Life Insurance
Short-Term Disability Coverage
Long-Term Disability Coverage
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Lyra Health Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Paid Family Leave (for eligible Exempt and Non-Exempt staff)
Transportation Benefit
Back-up Child Care Services
College Coach Program
Pet Insurance
Paid Sick Time (for Exempt staff)
Paid Time Off (available to all full-time, non-temporary employees)
Flexible benefits program
Tuition assistance
Generous 401(k) plan
Important Details
Schedule: Occasionally called upon to work hours in excess of your normal daily schedule; flexibility to work additional hours as needed to meet filing deadlines and other time-sensitive requirements, including evenings and occasional weekends
Travel: Ability and willingness to travel to off-site locations as required
Equipment used: Personal computer and other office equipment such as telephone, calculator, copier, scanner, etc.
About the Company
Reed Smith offers a challenging work environment and business casual dress code.
At Reed Smith, everything we do is to apply our global experience in law to drive progress for our clients, for ourselves and for our communities.
