IP and Patent Litigation Associate (ITC)
About The Position
Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox is seeking a junior Associate to join its nationally recognized U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) practice, with a focus on Section 337 investigations. This position is ideal for attorneys early in their careers who are interested in developing subject matter expertise in ITC litigation and are eager to learn through hands‑on experience, close mentorship, and formal training. Associates will work closely with experienced ITC practitioners on sophisticated matters involving cutting‑edge technologies and complex intellectual property disputes. Prior ITC experience and familiarity with 19 C.F.R. and the Administrative Procedure Acts is welcome but not required—the firm is committed to training motivated attorneys who demonstrate strong analytical skills, intellectual curiosity, and attention to detail.
Requirements
- J.D. from an accredited U.S. law school
- Admission to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction. Must be eligible to waive into the D.C. Bar or be willing and eligible to sit for the D.C. Bar exam.
- 2–7 years of experience practicing
- Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
- Interest in litigation and international trade, particularly ITC practice
- Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment
Nice To Haves
- Prior exposure to ITC proceedings, patent litigation, or administrative litigation
- Technical background or experience working with complex technologies (e.g., EE, CS, life sciences)
- Judicial clerkship experience
- Demonstrated interest in intellectual property or international trade law
- USPTO registration number desirable but not required
Responsibilities
- Support all phases of ITC Section 337 investigations, from pre‑institution strategy through hearing and post‑hearing briefing
- Assist with drafting pleadings, motions, discovery requests and responses, and briefs before the ITC
- Participate in fact and expert discovery, including document review and deposition preparation
- Contribute to hearing preparation, including witness outlines and exhibit organization
- Conduct legal research and analysis related to ITC procedure, patent law, and unfair trade practices
- Collaborate with attorneys, technical experts, and economists on complex litigation issues
- Gain exposure to parallel district court, PTAB, and appellate proceedings as appropriate
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans in addition to virtual care services through CloseKnit
- On-site Wellness Center in our Washington, D.C. office
- Staffed by a Nurse Practitioner, offers firm employees and other qualified family members with a range of medical services
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare, dependent care
- Wellness program
- Firm-paid life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) coverage
- Firm-paid short and long term disability insurance
- Supplemental life insurance and supplemental AD&D coverage, supplemental long term disability insurance, long term care insurance
- 401(k) retirement savings plan
- Transportation commuter benefit program
- Back-up childcare and family support
- Pet insurance discount
- Employee Assistance Program services
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
