Birch, Stewart, Kolasch & Birch, LLP (BSKB) · 4 days ago
IP (Patent) Legal Assistant
Birch, Stewart, Kolasch & Birch, LLP is an internationally recognized intellectual property law firm located in Vienna, VA, seeking a qualified IP Legal Assistant to provide full administrative support to firm attorneys. The role involves comprehensive understanding of US Patent prosecution and includes responsibilities such as filing applications, drafting documentation, and maintaining client relations.
Responsibilities
Create, revise and file provisional, non-provisional and continuing US Patent Applications, including reissue applications, and PPH applications in the US Patent and Trademark Office
Draft and prepare documentation associated with US Patent and Trademark prosecution/litigation matters and/or filings
Prepare and file Information Disclosure Statements and maintain integrity of the Firm’s prior art database
Draft, prepare and proofread written correspondence, memoranda and/or other documentation for attorneys, but not limited to: internal personnel, clients, Foreign Associates and/or Assignees and monitor incoming correspondence
Prepare, review and edit billing proformas and invoices
Manage, maintain and ensure accurate clearing of individual dockets and dockets of established attorney(s)/agent(s)
Manage and maintain the attorney/agent calendar
Screen and direct incoming telephone calls and/or voice messages
Copy, scan and save all communications in the appropriate document management system
Assist with coverage of attorneys/agents as needed and requested by the IP Legal Assistant Manager
Maintains positive communication with internal and external clients such as Foreign Associates, Assignees and/or Contacts via oral and/or written correspondence
Receives clients and/or visitors
Develops and maintains positive client relations
Utilize and provide feedback for documented guidelines, processes and procedures
Provide input on workflows and templates
Conduct quality review (EFS and e-mail)
Attend meetings and training sessions as determined by IP Manager
Other duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
Minimum high school diploma
Knowledge of and experience with administrative issues related to an Intellectual Property environment such as, filing applications, reissue applications, formalities, responses, drafting amendments, and monitoring docketing deadlines
Knowledge of and proficiency in using the Electronic Filing System (EFS) and Electronic Patent Assignment System (EPAS)
Knowledge of and experience with USPTO resources, for example Patent Center, and other related programs
Experience using MS Office 2016 including MS Outlook, MS Word, etc
Knowledge of and experience with Elite or other similar billing systems
Experience with mainstream IP Portfolio Management software such as Patricia or other similar Docketing software
Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of an IP law firm; ability to problem solve; knowledge of IP departmental policies and procedures
Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships at all levels within and outside of the department; prepare effective correspondence and reports; and communicate effectively verbally and in sensitive interpersonal situations
Service-oriented individual with enthusiasm for the challenges of providing complex services in a law firm setting
Detail-oriented individual possessing organizational skills
Analytical and problem-solving skills are essential
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Ability to initiate and manage projects from inception through completion
Ability to work independently and mentor staff and effectively interact in a collaborative work environment
Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment
Ability to fully adhere to firm confidentiality standards
Preferred
Associate or Bachelor's Degree
Paralegal Certificate
Experience as an IP Legal Assistant
Minimum of three years comprehensive US Patent prosecution experience is preferred
Company
Birch, Stewart, Kolasch & Birch, LLP (BSKB)
Birch, Stewart, Kolasch & Birch is a law firm that offers legal services in intellectual property, trademarks, and copyright matters.