Patent Practice Assistant (Multiple Offices - CA)

Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton is a global Am Law 100 firm seeking a Patent Prosecution Practice Assistant. The role involves supporting life science and healthcare IP attorneys and paralegals in patent prosecution tasks, requiring knowledge of U.S. patent prosecution rules and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Assist with submitting conflict checks and opening new matters, including preparation of engagement letters and management of client and case documents
• Review and organize documents, files, and emails and ensure they are properly filed in First-to-File and NetDocs, according to the Firm’s filing protocols
• Assist with maintaining client’s ShareFile spaces Maintain working knowledge of client guidelines, procedures, and preferences
• Research across patent databases such as USPTO, WIPO, Espacenet, and other foreign patent offices
• Prepare new application papers such as Application Data Sheets
• Prepare and send formal documents to inventors for signature, ensure timely receipt of signed documents, record and file formal documents with the USPTO
• Assist with drafting reporting letters for USPTO mail
• File US Powers of Attorney for transferred-in files and assist with transfer-in tasks related to new clients
• Research case files, both US and foreign
• Assist with running reports from firm’s docketing program
• Assist with client projects

Skills

• A minimum of 1-2 years of U.S. patent prosecution experience in a law firm
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment
• Strong attention to detail, high degree of accuracy, ability to prioritize tasks, and excellent time management skills to meet deadlines
• Ability to handle multiple projects with changing priorities while working independently in a fast-paced environment
• Clear and concise communication skills
• Possess excellent spelling, grammar, and punctuation skills
• Proficient working knowledge of filing in USPTO Patent Center
• Ability to work overtime, evenings, and weekends, as needed
• High school diploma
• Some college or bachelor's degree preferred

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