Patent Paralegal I

Finnegan•Washington, DC

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Patent Paralegal I assists attorneys, secretaries, and other legal staff with basic legal-document preparation, proofreading and editing, routine legal research, and general administrative assignments. The role includes training and development to take on more substantive legal secretarial work, with significant progression of responsibilities and assignments expected within the first year. The position supports varied intellectual property secretarial areas, including litigation and patent and trademark prosecution, and adapts to evolving client demands, processes, and technology. It may also provide backup reception coverage. The role can be based in any of Finnegan’s U.S. offices and requires a hybrid/onsite work schedule.

Requirements

High school degree or equivalent required.
Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook and Office programs, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Excellent attention to detail.
Excellent organizational skills and ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, including spelling and grammar, and interpersonal skills.
Flexible attitude and ability to handle changing assignments and priorities in a rapid, variable-paced work environment.
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 preparation of court filings and organize 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 advancement, reimbursement, and invoice payments.
Coordinate travel and meeting logistics, including scheduling, arranging videoconferences, conference calls, and conference rooms; requesting equipment and food and beverage orders; and preparing 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 in accordance with 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.
Embrace new processes and incorporate new technology to meet evolving client demands.
Attend and actively participate in secretarial and team meetings.
Provide backup for reception when required.
Perform other duties as assigned.