General Summary: Support patent attorney(s) and/or patent scientist(s) in the preparation of intellectual property related documents. Lend support for client portfolio management. Work cohesively with team members and attorneys to ensure efficient support of time billers, administrative tasks, and client service.  

Responsibilities:

• Assist with the preparation and filing of patent related documents with the USPTO. Ensure legal documents are processed in a timely and efficient manner complying with the firm’s quality control requirements, client guidelines, and USPTO regulations and deadlines.
• Monitor filing deadlines noted on docket reports for all US and foreign patent, trademark, and copyright applications; assist with review/clearance of docket dates and communicate details to Docketing department.

• Read, prioritize, route and follow up on incoming communication, e.g., faxes, emails and correspondence ensuring that all documents are timely reported to the client.

• Transmit documents electronically to clients, courts, USPTO, Secretary of State, Copyright Office and other agencies via appropriate firm methods.
• Create, maintain and organize electronic and paper files; maintain client preferences and contacts within firm systems.

• Assist in the coordination of client billing and time entry, auditing and revising as necessary and following client specific instructions.

• Run conflict checks to ensure that files are generated; follow up to ensure files are opened timely and maintained accurately.
• Perform research as requested using Private PAIR, TARR, eSpace, WIPO and other reference sources. 
• Assist with coordination of incoming and outgoing file transfers.

• Interact effectively with Accounting, Docketing, Litigation, International Patent, Trademark and other departments as required in support of attorney and/or scientist workload requirements.
• Provide administrative support such as expense report reconciliation utilizing Chrome River, screen calls and assist callers, schedule couriers and notarial services, and coordinate drafting and word processing as needed.
• Maintain attorney appointment and due date calendars ensuring that all dates are met, coordinate schedules, organize meetings, and handle travel arrangements as directed.

• Provide coverage for IP Assistants as requested; conduct and participate in training as necessary.
• Delegate tasks to clerks and monitor their work product and deadlines.

• Complete other duties as assigned by IP Assistant Supervisor, attorneys and scientists, or Administration.

Qualifications:

• Prior legal support experience is highly desirable, particularly in intellectual property. 

• Previous experience with iManage, private PAIR, EFS web and CPI Docketing preferred.
• Effective writing skills; excellent proofreading, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Must be efficient, accurate, flexible, timely, organized and have excellent attention to detail.
• Excellent computer skills; proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent verbal communication skills.
• Able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Team player and a positive attitude is a must.
• Must meet minimum testing requirements.
• Able to lift and carry up to 15 pounds.

EEO, Including Disability/Vets