Patent Prosecution Paralegal – Raleigh, NC (mainly remote) A top-notch law firm is seeking a Patent Prosecution Paralegal for their Intellectual Property Department in their Raleigh, NC office. Under the supervision of attorneys, the Patent Paralegal will provide support for all types of U.S. and foreign patent activities. The paralegal will operate as part of a team of attorneys and support staff and will assume ownership for all aspects of file management to ensure a high level of service to both internal and external clients. JOB FUNCTIONS:
Assist in filing of U.S., PCT and foreign regional patent applications and responses, both electronically and paper (including preparation and review of necessary filing documents)
Overall support for all aspects of portfolio management
Effect national phase entry of PCT applications, and prepare and file continuing applications
Correspond with foreign associates and preparation of reporting letters to client
Assist in drafting correspondence to clients regarding status of applications and patents, including reporting filing receipts for applications, publication notices, proofreading and forwarding patent certificates
Draft detailed letter to client reporting Office Actions
Review and manage docket for deadlines, understand docket and deadlines and action needed on each file
Assist in patent filing strategy discussions and due diligence
Communicate with appropriate attorneys and team members about docket
Utilize Case Assistants or contract resources to prepare and file Information Disclosure Statements ensuring accuracy and consistency in work product. Performing PTA calculations and requests for correction
Maintain accurate daily time records for client billing purposes
SKILLS REQUIRED:
Minimum of five (5) years’ experience as a patent prosecution paralegal, legal secretary or comparable position with experience working in a law firm or in house legal environment
Four-year degree or equivalent law firm experience preferred
Paralegal certificate from ABA approved program preferred
Familiar with USPTO (U.S. Patent and Trademark Office) Procedures, Rules and Requirements
Knowledge of U.S. and PCT patent rules and procedure; knowledge of national laws of other countries; knowledge of Paris Convention and deadlines set therein
Knowledge of various Courts systems and filing requirements
High level of proficiency with technology including Microsoft Office Suite applications, Adobe Acrobat, U.S. Patent Office Electronic Filing System, Dialog and other internet research tools
Must have effective written and oral communication skills; Ability to compose routine correspondence
Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently, prioritize assignments and handle multiple projects simultaneously
Maintain confidentiality of client information
Should have ability to work in fast-paced environment
Ability to perform well under pressure
Reliable and dependable team player
Ability to work independently and take initiative to move projects to conclusion
Must have sense of urgency relating to client requests and should be able to meet deadlines
Strong work ethic, flexible, dependable, and positive can-do attitude
Experience with Electronic Filing USPTO procedures
Ability to travel, if needed
Bachelors or better / Certified Paralegal
To Apply: Please email your resume to: cfleck@chelsearecruiters.com