IP SupportPatent Paralegal
Job Purpose:
We are looking for a highly motivated and organized Patent Paralegal with either CIPA or EPAC qualification to join our busy Intellectual Property team based in London. The successful candidate will play a key role in providing comprehensive legal and administrative support to our patent attorneys, assisting with patent filings, formalities, and the management of clients' IP portfolios. This role requires someone with strong attention to detail and excellent communication skills, who thrives in a fast-paced legal environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Patent Filing & Formalities:
Assist with the preparation and filing of UK, European (EPO), and international (PCT) patent applications.
Handle formality requirements, including recording changes in ownership, assignments, and licenses, and managing power of attorney documents.
Docketing & Deadline Management:
Monitor, track, and maintain patent deadlines using docketing systems, ensuring all actions are completed within the required timeframes.
Track official correspondence from patent offices and agents, managing response deadlines for applications and renewals.
Correspondence & Liaison:
Act as a point of contact for clients, foreign associates, and patent offices (UKIPO, EPO, WIPO), handling routine correspondence and queries.
Prepare and issue client reports on the status of their patent applications and upcoming deadlines.
IP Portfolio Management:
Assist with the maintenance and management of clients' patent portfolios, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records in the firm's IP management system.
Support the patent attorneys in advising clients on portfolio strategies and procedural updates.
Documentation & Compliance:
Prepare and proofread documents required for patent filings, office actions, and other formalities.
Ensure compliance with UK, European, and international patent laws and procedures, keeping up to date with any legislative changes affecting IP practices.
Invoicing & Cost Management:
Support billing processes by preparing cost estimates, tracking official fees, and ensuring accurate invoicing for clients' IP activities.
Annuities & Renewals:
Assist in the administration of patent renewals and annuities, coordinating with renewal service providers and ensuring timely payments.
Skills & Qualifications:
CIPA or EPAC Qualification: Must hold either a CIPA Certificate in Patent Administration or be EPAC (European Patent Administration Certification) Qualified.
Experience:
At least 2 years of experience working in a patent paralegal or formalities role, ideally within a law firm, patent attorney firm, or in-house IP department.
Knowledge:
Strong knowledge of UK, European, and international patent filing and prosecution processes (UKIPO, EPO, WIPO).
Familiarity with patent forms, procedures, and electronic filing systems (e.g., ePCT, EPO Online Services).
Docketing:
Experience with patent docketing software (e.g., Inprotech, IP Manager, CPA Memotech), and the ability to manage deadlines efficiently.
Communication Skills:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to liaise professionally with clients, patent offices, and foreign agents.
Organizational Skills:
Exceptional organizational and time management abilities, with a high level of attention to detail and accuracy.
IT Skills:
Proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook), and the ability to quickly learn and use IP management systems.
Teamwork:
A team player with a positive attitude and the ability to work independently when required.
Desirable Skills:
Foreign Patent Knowledge: Experience managing patent filings outside the UK and Europe, including familiarity with international filing systems and procedures.
Annuities & Renewals Experience: Familiarity with patent renewal processes and dealing with annuity service providers.
Additional Language Skills: Any additional language skills would be an asset, especially when working with foreign clients and associates.
Benefits:
Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
Comprehensive benefits package, including pension scheme, private healthcare, and life insurance.
Opportunities for professional development and career progression within a leading IP firm.
Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working.
Collaborative and supportive working environment.
This is an excellent opportunity for a CIPA or EPAC qualified Patent Paralegal looking to further their career within a prestigious law firm or IP department in London. If you have the relevant skills and qualifications and a passion for intellectual property, we encourage you to apply!
Benefits:
Competitive salary and bonus structure.
Comprehensive benefits package, including pension, private healthcare, and more.
Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
Flexible working options, including hybrid working arrangements.
This is an excellent opportunity for a CIPA-qualified Patent Administrator to join a top-tier IP team in London, offering a varied and rewarding role in a supportive and professional environment. If you have the experience and passion for patent administration, we’d love to hear from you!