Patent Paralegal I

Finnegan•Washington, DC

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Patent Paralegal I supports attorneys, secretaries, and other legal staff by preparing basic legal documents, proofreading and editing materials, conducting routine legal research, and handling general administrative assignments. The role includes training and development intended to build skills for more substantive legal secretarial assignments. Significant progression of responsibilities and assignments should be expected within the first year. The position supports a range of intellectual property secretarial work, including litigation and patent and trademark prosecution. It requires adapting to changing processes and technology, participating in team meetings, and providing backup reception support when needed. The role is based in Finnegan’s Washington, DC office and follows a hybrid/onsite work schedule. Shift options are 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. or 11:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m.; candidates on the later shift may be eligible for additional scheduling flexibility subject to business needs and manager approval.

Requirements

High school degree or equivalent.
Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook and Office programs, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Excellent attention to detail.
Excellent organizational skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently.
Excellent oral and written communication, including spelling and grammar, and interpersonal skills.
Flexible attitude and ability to manage changing assignments and priorities in a rapid but variable pace of work.
Willingness to learn, acquire advanced duties, and support varied team members.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree or paralegal certificate preferred.
Familiarity with databases or willingness to learn them.
Familiarity with the Internet/Intranet and using the internet for research.

Responsibilities

Assist with preparing court filings and organizing pleadings, memoranda, discovery, and other legal documents.
Prepare, edit, proofread, and redline documents and correspondence for accuracy, grammar, and formatting.
Prepare client bills and related forms, and arrange expense advances, reimbursements, and invoice payments.
Coordinate travel and meeting logistics, including scheduling, videoconferences, conference calls, conference rooms, equipment, food and beverage orders, and presentation materials.
Open new client matters.
Organize and maintain attorney contacts and calendars.
Input, review, edit, and update attorney time entries, and print reports.
Ensure client communications are relayed accurately and promptly.
Organize and maintain paper and electronic files according to Firm records-retention policies.
Complete training to assist attorneys with docket monitoring and deadline preparation.
Complete core training, cross-training, skills assessments, and related development in IP secretarial support areas, including litigation and patent and trademark prosecution, as assigned.
Adopt new processes and technology as client demands evolve.
Attend and actively participate in secretarial and team meetings.
Provide reception backup when required.
Perform other duties as assigned.