Patent Attorney

Job Overview
A prestigious law firm is seeking a Patent Attorney with 2 to 4 years of experience to join its Intellectual Property and Technology practice. This role, based in Washington, DC, offers a unique opportunity to engage in sophisticated patent prosecution and technical analysis related to a variety of technologies, including computer hardware, software, telecommunications, electrical, electromechanical, and automotive sectors. The ideal candidate will handle mid-level patent work, including drafting, filing, and prosecuting US patent applications, managing international patent strategies, and preparing legal opinions on patentability, non-infringement, and invalidity.

Location
Washington, DC

Duties

• Draft, file, and prosecute US patent applications.
• Manage and coordinate international patent application strategies.
• Prepare patentability, non-infringement, and invalidity opinions.
• Provide general intellectual property counseling to clients.
• Work independently and collaboratively on complex patent matters.
• Analyze technical aspects of client technologies, including electrical, software, telecommunications, and automotive fields.
• Engage in client meetings and provide legal guidance on patent portfolio development.

Requirements

• 2 to 4 years of experience practicing patent law.
• Proven ability to handle patent prosecution independently and as part of a team.
• Strong legal writing and communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize workload and work under pressure.
• Excellent judgment and analytical skills.
• Previous experience with USPTO processes, including experience as a court clerk or examiner, is a plus.
• Familiarity with patent analysis is strongly preferred.
• Ability to work well under pressure and handle multiple tasks efficiently.
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Education

• Juris Doctorate (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Undergraduate or advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or a related field.

Certifications

• Admission to the District of Columbia Bar (or the ability to gain admission).
• USPTO registration is preferred but not required.

Skills

• Expertise in patent drafting and prosecution.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills and technical aptitude.
• Experience providing intellectual property advice and counseling.
• Ability to work collaboratively with clients and internal teams.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance benefits.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Professional development opportunities in a supportive and dynamic work environment.

This international and trade law firm has 10 offices across the world and was founded in early 1960s. The firm has over 350 attorneys in the team working in the areas of intellectual property, finance, international business, transactional and commercial, lobbying and government relations, litigation and dispute resolution and regulatory and administrative law. The firm's leadership attitude and forward thinking makes it one of the most progressive law firms.