Trademark Paralegal

NBA NBA•New York, NY

2d•$90,000 - $110,000•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a Trademark Paralegal to join our fast-paced legal team. In this role, you will balance strategic portfolio maintenance - including preparing various submissions to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) - with active digital brand enforcement. We are looking for an independent self-starter who has deep familiarity with IP docketing software and a sharp eye for identifying marketplace infringements. You will work closely with NBA attorneys, intellectual property managers, and outside counsel to serve a key role in safeguarding our global brand.

Requirements

At least 5 years of trademark or intellectual property paralegal experience in a law firm IP practice or an in-house legal department.
Working knowledge of USPTO procedures, TEAS filings, TTAB practice, and Madrid Protocol/WIPO filings.
Knowledge of trademark filing processes, international procedures, and foreign associate management.
Proficiency with IP docketing software such as CPI, Anaqua, or Pattsy, (experience with Memotech is a plus).
Direct experience or familiarity with digital brand protection platforms and online marketplace takedown tools.
Sharp visual attention to detail for tracking online infringements, collecting evidence of use, and matching product photos.
Familiarity with document management systems and case-tracking databases.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, and online research tools.
Fluency in core office productivity software, document management databases, and case-tracking databases.
Excellent time-management skills to handle a diverse workflow spanning steady filings, prosecution, oppositions, and project-based digital audits.
University degree or a professional paralegal qualification.

Nice To Haves

experience with Memotech is a plus

Responsibilities

Be an active member of the IP team that manages the end-to-end lifecycle of the worldwide trademark portfolio of the NBA and its affiliated leagues to protect the value of the company’s brand and global IP assets.
Prepare and file various USPTO documents, including trademark applications, Requests for Extensions of Time, Statements of Use, Amendments, Section 8 & 15 Affidavits of Use, Declarations of Incontestability, and Renewals.
Draft responses to USPTO Office Actions (including TEAS filings) and international Office Actions and notifications.
Research and evaluate potential specimens of use for submission to the USPTO and to foreign jurisdictions that require a Declaration of Continued Use.
Assist in overseeing U.S. and international trademark portfolios, including communicating with foreign outside counsel and coordinating directly with clients.
Assist with the preparing, filing, and managing TTAB proceedings.
Audit e-commerce websites and digital marketplaces for counterfeit and unlicensed merchandise.
Draft and submit IP infringement notices and demand letters, including assisting with a high volume of demand letters targeting print-on-demand networks and standalone international websites.
Track online takedown requests to ensure compliance and conduct necessary follow-up, including managing both automated vendor platforms and manual, time-intensive URL information collection.
Manage targeted platform takedowns requiring deep web research, with a focus on TikTok Shop, Instagram sponsored ads, and marketplace account resellers.
Assist in promptly and effectively addressing periodic digital enforcement spikes (e.g., following high-profile player transfers, team milestones, and league championship events).
Provide event-based enforcement support, including ongoing anti-piracy and brand protection enforcement targeting unlicensed event promoters during annual NBA All-Star and related events.
Assist in onboarding new digital enforcement portals, online marketplaces, platforms, and third-party league vendors, including uploading bulk/ large-scale sets of trademark registration certificates.
Work with third-party technology vendors to streamline, coordinate, and execute global digital brand protection initiatives.
Prepare regular reports detailing enforcement efforts, evaluating localized campaign impacts, analyzing data, and tracking IP enforcement expenditures.
Provide support in connection with other online IP enforcement matters, including domain name disputes, UDRP proceedings, and ambush marketing threats.
Assist in managing state and federal customs enforcement efforts by gathering/uploading photographic evidence, tracking active case records, and organizing investigative documentation.