At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Trade Mark Attorneys and manage trade mark prosecution and dispute files.
- Company: A leading law firm with a focus on collaboration and integrity.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, competitive benefits, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for growth and development in a high-performance culture.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the world of intellectual property.
- Qualifications: Experience in trade marks and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ per year.
About Withers: A law firm focused on people, performance, and collaboration. For the past 130 years, we have supported some of the world’s most remarkable people and organizations at defining moments in their lives. We are united in our commitment to integrity, quality and collaboration. We have a culture of high performance and deliver excellent service consistently across the firm. We provide tailored solutions built on trust and partner with our clients to achieve their goals.
The Role: The role of a Trade Mark Paralegal will involve providing support and assistance to our Trade Mark Attorneys and other fee earners. Direct client exposure will be involved, and the candidate will have an opportunity to liaise with third party agents and correspondent law firms. Candidates should preferably have experience of juggling a high volume of work in different client teams. Whilst they will be supervised, they need to be able to work independently, progressing their workload without reminders and ensuring that they deliver on their tasks in a timely manner.
Key areas of focus (this is not an exhaustive list):
- Assisting the team with managing and maintaining trade mark prosecution and dispute files on WebTMS – 2500+ TM records and 200+ dispute records (and some RCDs)
- General portfolio maintenance, e.g., updating registered address; noting any inconsistencies with fee earners; assisting with office actions and amendments to specifications; assisting with recording assignments; completing and filing forms
- Taking responsibility for all aspects of renewal and maintenance deadlines, including liaising with clients, fee earners and overseas agents
- Assisting with preparing forms and evidence for oppositions, cancellation actions, etc.
- Carrying out trade mark searches and producing search reports
- Receiving incoming and outgoing correspondence and docketing deadlines and key information.
- Working closely with the legal team to develop, implement and maintain docketing processes
- Corresponding with clients and overseas attorneys in respect of upcoming deadlines
- Assisting team with on-boarding of new client trade mark portfolios
- Generating reporting letters to clients and assisting legal team with providing updates to clients
- Reviewing trade mark watch notices and assisting fee earners with reports for clients
- Research into client and/or third-party IP rights and providing reports to fee earners (e.g., WHOIS searches, TM searches, press, Companies House, general online searches etc)
- Drafting bundles to accompany instructions to counsel and updating hard copy correspondence bundles for litigation
- Liaising with support teams, e.g., with Library team re press searches
- Assisting with IP due diligence exercises
- Working with our business teams to assist with client set-up/administration and financial management, including assistance with billing and disbursements
This list of duties and responsibilities is not exhaustive. The role may also include the undertaking of additional administration as required from time to time.
Skills And Experience Required:
- Previous experience with trade marks in an IP environment
- Previous experience with conducting trade mark searches and producing search reports
- Knowledge of WebTMS / IPPO or other trade mark management databases
- Ability to manage workload and prioritise tasks
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work as part of a team and under pressure
- Good workload management, prioritisation and time management skills
The Essentials: 9.30 - 5.30pm but flexibility is a must. Flexible benefit package.
Equal Opportunities Employment Statement: It is the policy of Withers to provide equal opportunities for all employees in relation to recruitment, training and promotion. Decisions in these areas will be made only by reference to the requirements of the job and shall not be influenced by any consideration of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race (including colour, nationality and ethnic and national origin), religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.
Trade Mark Paralegal employer: Withers
Withers is an exceptional employer located in the heart of London, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and professional growth. As a Client Onboarding & Billing Specialist, you will benefit from comprehensive training and development opportunities, alongside a supportive team environment that values your contributions to client relationships and compliance. Enjoy the unique advantage of working in a prestigious firm that champions diversity and innovation, making it a rewarding place to advance your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trade Mark Paralegal
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
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Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Withers, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Trade Mark Paralegal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Withers, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Withers and the specific role of Trade Mark Paralegal. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Withers’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Withers
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Withers.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Withers.
