Choosing a career as a specialized patent attorney in the U.S. means being an attorney who has the required qualifications to represent people and corporations in obtaining patents. A patent attorney acts in all matters and procedures relating to patent law and practice. The career title carries different credentials and positions in various countries, so check for specifics needed.
Let's take a look at a few reasons why a career as a patent attorney is so rewarding.
Employment as a Patent Attorney is Challenging and Rewarding
Patents are involved in many areas of society; they are sought out by individuals as well as corporations. Patent attorneys are the foundation for getting the patent process completed.
Patent attorneys, also known as patent lawyers, act as advisors and advocates in the process, representing their clients and supporting their efforts with documentation and legal rights, obligations and suggestions counsel. They need a strong background in engineering or science.
Patent attorneys need to be licensed in order to represent parties in court. They need to be able to prepare trial work, think under the gun, and have solid speaking skills. Other skills needed are to be able to do research, prepare documentation and courtroom presentations.
Specifics of a Patent Attorney Career
The following list includes a few specifics related to a career as a patent attorney:
- Although most work is done in an office setting, law library or courtroom, patent work is also done on job sites. Travel may be a requirement. Lawyers in private practice often work irregular hours, while those on salaries average roughly 50 hours per week plus over-time during busy periods.
- Keeping up with the news, current events, and ever-changing laws in the patent industry are three 'musts.'
- In 2004, there were about 735,000 attorney jobs, 3 out of 4 in private practices, with most salaried patent attorneys working in the government, corporations, or with nonprofit organizations.
- Job opportunities for attorneys are projected to grow as fast as the average rate through 2014. |
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