Paralegal - Intellectual Property (Chicago)
At Taft, we work as one team, driven and committed to helping our clients succeed. A full-service law firm with more than 1,250 attorneys and over 2,000 on our team, we have the collaborative approach, advanced technological resources, and depth of services that make us a preeminent law firm.
Taft is seeking a Paralegal to support the Intellectual Property practice group in our Chicago office.
We are seeking a paralegal with 2+ years litigation experience to join the Intellectual Property team in Chicago. All Taft employees operate under a “Client First” philosophy—in all things, we seek to provide exceptional services to our clients.
Responsibilities:
- Displays strong attention to detail as well as critical thinking. Proofreads and cite checks evidentiary citations and support.
- Responds to requests with a sense of urgency and effectively prioritizes work.
- Edits and proofreads documents for accuracy and compliance with applicable federal and state statutes and local rules.
- Researches appropriate court rules, judge’s standing orders.
- Manages patent docket for deadlines, ensure all filings are completed in a timely manner, and maintain updated information on patent applications.
- Proactively monitors filing deadlines and case schedules.
- Clearly communicates in a concise, professional manner.
- Communicates effectively with investors, clients, and external patent agents to ensure the smooth progression of patent matters.
- Assists with due diligence for investigations and communicate effectively with investors, clients and external patent agents to ensure smooth progression of patent matters.
- Files documents with the courts electronically, working knowledge and experience with e-filing in both State and Federal Court systems.
- Assists in the drafting and preparation of documents related to prosecution and maintenance of U.S. and foreign trademarks.
- Assists in deposition, mediation, arbitration, and trial preparation.
Knowledge, Abilities, Skills, Interpersonal and Other Requirements:
- Strong working knowledge in the application of Microsoft Office programs.
- Exceptional attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Strong analytical and organizational skills.
- Sound judgment, including the ability to identify and escalate issues.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to prioritize, multi-task and meet deadlines.
Education and Experience:
- A bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of training and experience is required.
- Formal paralegal training from an accredited college or ABA-approved program, preferably a four-year degree program, or equivalent experience.
- Three plus years’ experience working as a paralegal in a law firm preferred. Intellectual Property (IP) experience preferred..
- Proficiency working in electronic discovery software, preferably Relativity.
- Understands some Rules of Civil Procedure (e.g., Rule 5, 34).
- Requires knowledge of and experience with general litigation.
Interested candidates should apply here.
Taft offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefit package, including medical, dental, vision, life, long term disability, flexible spending, 401K, Paid Time Off, paid holidays, bonus and more. The salary range for this position is $86,000 – $105,000. Actual compensation offer to candidate may vary from posted information based on work experience, education, and/or skill level.