Birch, Stewart, Kolasch & Birch, LLP, an internationally recognized intellectual property law firm located in Falls Church, VA, has an exciting opportunity for a qualified IP Legal Assistant to provide full administrative support to firm attorneys. The IP Legal Assistant possesses a comprehensive understanding of US Patent prosecution. This is a nonexempt position, and it reports to the firm’s IP Manager.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Requirements:
- 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 multitask and work in a fast paced environment
- Ability to fully adhere to firm confidentiality standards
Responsibilities and Duties
- Administrative
- 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
- Customer Service and Communications
- 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
- Training, Mentoring, Quality Review
- 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
Benefits:
Comprehensive benefits package to include medical, dental, and vision insurance. Paid time off and paid holidays. Short-term and long-term disability coverage. Opportunity to work remotely.
About BSKB:
Since 1976, BSKB has been providing a full range of intellectual property law services to clients in the areas of patent prosecution, post-grant review, litigation, opinions and counseling, design patents, trademarks and licensing. Our knowledgeable attorneys and agents hold advanced degrees and are experienced in the fields of chemistry, electronics and IT, mechanical engineering and life sciences/biotechnology.
