Patent Paralegal

Miller Johnson is looking for a Patent Paralegal based in our Detroit Office to support our Intellectual Property Practice Group. In this role you will provide substantive, billable paralegal support to attorneys within the Intellectual Property Practice Group, with responsibility for managing assigned U.S. and foreign patent matters. The Paralegal independently manages case workflows, prepares and coordinates patent filings, monitors critical deadlines, prepares prosecution-related documents and correspondence, and communicates with clients, foreign associates, and government agencies. The role requires strong knowledge of patent rules and procedures and a high degree of autonomy, judgment, organization, and accountability for the timely progression of assigned matters. Why Miller Johnson What sets Miller Johnson apart is not only the work we do, but how we do it. We offer meaningful work, a collaborative environment, and a culture where people are valued, supported, and empowered to grow. Guided by our core values of integrity and candor, grit, a down-to-earth approach, commitment to excellence, and commitment to impact, we create opportunities for every team member to develop professionally, build strong relationships, contribute to the firm's success, and build a rewarding career. What You Will Do As a Patent Paralegal you will: Manage substantive patent prosecution work under attorney supervision, taking ownership of assigned matters, deadlines, filings, and follow-up. Review, process, and maintain docketing for U.S. and international patent matters, including filing deadlines, responses, renewals, maintenance requirements, and other critical dates. Prepare and file documents with the USPTO, including formal documents for patent applications, responses to USPTO communications, assignments, and other prosecution-related filings. Review correspondence and official communications from the USPTO and foreign associates; identify required actions and coordinate appropriate next steps with attorneys. Coordinate with clients, foreign associates, and third-party providers regarding patent annuities, maintenance fees, and other patent-related requirements. Conduct research and compile information relating to U.S. and international patent matters, including searches of USPTO records and other intellectual property databases. Prepare client correspondence, status reports, filing reports, and other substantive matter-related communications. Maintain accurate and complete matter records and proactively monitor assigned matters to ensure deadlines and required actions are addressed. Coordinate with Legal Administrative Assistants and other support professionals on administrative components of patent matters as appropriate. Perform other substantive patent paralegal and matter-related responsibilities as assigned by attorneys and Practice Group leadership. Qualifications include: Bachelor’s degree in business or related field and/or certification from an accredited paralegal program Minimum of 2 years of substantive patent paralegal experience required Strong knowledge of U.S. and foreign patent rules, procedures, filing requirements, and prosecution practices Mastery of the USPTO's online tools Advanced knowledge and proficiency in docketing software solutions (e.g., PATTSY Wave / Anaqua, CPi, CPA, or similar) Concise and effective written and verbal communication Exceptional client service skills, discretion, and judgment to ensure client confidentiality Proactive and detail-oriented with strong organizational and time-management skills Self-motivated professional with the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment Ability to think creatively to identify and implement proactive solutions Self-motivated professional with the ability to work collaboratively and independently in a fast-paced environment Demonstrates consistent accuracy, responsiveness, and attention to detail in a high-volume environment Manages assigned cases proactively, monitors deadlines, and identifies next steps without needing direction on each task Communicates effectively and concisely in writing and verbally Ability to delegate work effectively and provide guidance to more junior team members We are committed to fostering an exceptional work experience that includes an inclusive culture that values uniquely talented team members. We are proud to offer flexible scheduling, paid time off, and annual performance reviews. Our benefit package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, adoption assistance, and a 401(k)-retirement plan. Miller Johnson is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Miller Johnson