Junior Patent Legal Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Junior Legal Assistant to support one of the top 10 patent prosecution firms in the U.S., with a focus on intellectual property. The ideal candidate will have 2-6 years of patent prosecution experience and a strong understanding of USPTO procedures, patent filings, docket management, and intellectual property administration. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced legal environment.

• Prepare, file, and maintain U.S. patent prosecution documents with the USPTO.
• Manage patent portfolios and monitor critical deadlines using docketing systems.
• Prepare and file Information Disclosure Statements (IDS), Powers of Attorney, Assignments, Declarations, and other patent-related documents.
• Coordinate domestic and foreign patent filings with attorneys, clients, and foreign associates.
• Review correspondence from the USPTO and ensure timely responses and filings.
• Track patent applications through all stages of prosecution.
• Maintain electronic and physical client files, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Assist attorneys with patent application preparation, filing, and prosecution matters.
• Prepare reporting and status updates for clients regarding patent portfolios.
• Process and track maintenance fees, annuities, and related deadlines.
• Conduct conflict checks and assist with opening new matters.
• Support attorneys with administrative and legal support functions as needed.

• 4-6 years of patent prosecution legal assistant experience required.
• Experience supporting patent attorneys in a law firm or corporate legal department.
• Strong knowledge of USPTO filing procedures and patent prosecution workflows.
• Experience with patent docketing systems such as CPI, Anaqua, FoundationIP, Patricia, or similar platforms.
• Familiarity with domestic and foreign patent filings.
• Experience preparing and filing IDSs, Assignments, Declarations, and related patent documents.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Outlook, and Excel.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.

• Experience supporting a high-volume intellectual property practice.
• Knowledge of patent portfolio management and maintenance fee tracking.
• Experience working with international associates and foreign filing procedures.
• Associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or paralegal certificate preferred.

Full-time, Remote

Candidates must be located in: Virginia, Michigan, Missouri, or Texas

$70,000-$100K