Legal Assistant

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Position Overview

As a key member of our legal team, the IP Legal Assistant plays a critical role in supporting attorneys through a blend of specialized secretarial and administrative tasks. This position ensures the seamless delivery of high-quality legal services to our clients, working collaboratively across offices and departments. The role primarily supports a designated group of attorneys, with flexibility to assist others as needed.

Core Responsibilities

• Prepare routine correspondence and US, PCT, and foreign patent-prosecution documents.
• File USPTO documents electronically and in hard copy with precision and timeliness.
• Proactively anticipate attorney needs to enhance efficiency and workflow.
• Proofread all documents meticulously to ensure accuracy and completeness prior to distribution or filing.
• Prepare and submit client intake forms with attention to detail.
• Maintain organized and confidential patent-related files, databases, and correspondence.
• Communicate with clients and third parties to gather documentation for patent applications.
• Monitor deadlines and coordinate timely submission of patent-related documents.
• Prepare and submit Information Disclosure Statements (IDS) to disclose relevant prior art and references to the patent office, ensuring compliance with USPTO rules and regulations.
• Assist in drafting responses to Office Actions from domestic and international patent offices.
• Liaise with foreign agents to manage international patent filings.
• File patent and trademark documents with the USPTO in accordance with established procedures.
• Support attorneys in patent litigation, including document review and discovery.
• Create patent-related reports, charts, and presentations for internal and client use.
• Maintain control files of matters in progress and follow up on court-ordered actions.
• Use standard naming conventions when scanning, emailing, and saving documents.
• Update contact records in Outlook and firm databases.
• Request and prepare billing statements and pre-bills for attorney review.
• Monitor and follow up on client deadlines and calendar appointments.
• Coordinate travel arrangements and meeting logistics for attorneys.
• Assist with CLE compliance tracking, training programs, and other non-billable activities.
• Answer phones, relay messages, and manage communications related to legal matters.
• Prepare and send mail, faxes, certified and overnight packages, and interoffice correspondence.
• Serve as a Notary Public when applicable.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

Education:

High School Diploma required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Experience:

Prior legal assistant experience required. Strongly preferred: experience in patent prosecution and litigation.

Skills & Competencies:

• Solid understanding of legal terminology, documents, and litigation processes.
• Advanced proficiency in MS Word, Outlook, Excel, and document management systems (NetDocs preferred).
• Ability to quickly learn and adapt to new software tools.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail and strong organizational abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Strong client service orientation and collaborative mindset.
• Demonstrated initiative, adaptability, and resilience.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
• Physical activity may be required.

Benefits & Equal Opportunity

Bradley offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and retirement plans. A comprehensive benefits summary will be provided during the interview process.

Bradley is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), marital status, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.