Junior to Midlevel Intellectual Property Disputes Associate

Job Overview:

A well-established law firm is seeking a Junior to Midlevel Associate with 1-5 years of experience to join its Intellectual Property Disputes practice. The ideal candidate will have experience in IP litigation, specifically in patent and trademark disputes, and a technical background in electrical or computer engineering, computer science, or a similar field. This position offers the opportunity to work on complex, high-profile cases while being a part of a collaborative team of legal professionals.

Location:

• Chicago, IL

Duties:

• Represent clients in high-stakes intellectual property litigation, including patent, trademark, and trade secret matters.
• Draft legal documents such as pleadings, motions, and discovery requests.
• Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda on complex IP issues.
• Assist with the discovery process, including managing document review and strategy.
• Collaborate with senior associates and partners on case development and client strategy.
• Participate in depositions, hearings, and other litigation proceedings.
• Provide practical legal counsel to clients on IP matters, including risk management and IP enforcement strategies.

Requirements:

• 1-5 years of intellectual property litigation experience at a large law firm or equivalent setting.
• Technical background in electrical or computer engineering, computer science, or related fields preferred.
• Active bar membership in the state where the position is based.
• Strong legal writing, research, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• A detail-oriented, proactive approach to case management and client service.

Education:

• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Active membership in the state bar where applying.

Skills:

• Expertise in intellectual property law, particularly patent and trademark disputes.
• Strong legal writing and drafting skills.
• Proficiency in legal research tools and technology.
• Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, client-focused environment.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and location.
• Annual performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance plans (medical, dental, vision, life insurance).
• 401(k) plan with firm matching.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Paid parental leave and pregnancy disability leave.
• Employee Assistance Program and Work/Life Services.
• Commuter benefits, childcare assistance, and wellness programs.
• Eligibility for clerkship bonuses for applicants coming directly from a judicial clerkship.
• Flexible spending accounts for health and dependent care.

This large law firm opened with a labor and leveraged-leasing practice and quickly built a substantial corporate and litigation practice. Today, the firm focuses its practice on business and finance, investment management, litigation, labor and employment, real estate and environmental issues. Attorneys at the firm enjoy a faily casual, though conservative, environment where partners tend to be collegial and offer excellent formal and informal training programs. In addition to recieving fair market salaries, associates at the firm have the opportunity to participate in award winning pro bono work.