Patent and Intellectual Property Attorneys in High Demand

An article in Tuesday’s Baltimore Sun highlighted the growing demand for patent and intellectual property attorneys. The demand for these types of attorneys has mirrored the astronomical growth in the number of patent filings over the past two decades. Part of the reason why patent and intellectual property attorneys are so hard to find is that, in addition to a law degree, most require a background in technology or science that qualifies them to understand complex technological and scientific concepts. They are often called upon by clients to file and defend patents and to protect the intellectual property of their clients.

Because these areas of the law are largely open to interpretation, these attorneys must be amongst the most knowledgeable and the most persuasive. A rare combination that commands huge salaries and has created a frenzy among firms looking to bolster their presence in the patent and intellectual property arenas.

An IP partner at a top firm typically is hired at $700,000 or $800,000, even $1 million a year, with the most meager book of business - the work that comes with them. First-year associates at large firms can expect a 10 percent to 15 percent premium over base pay of about $160,000.

If you’re thinking about law school or you’ve recently received a scientific or technological degree, you can rarely hurt your bottom line by pursuing a career as a patent or intellectual property attorney.

Tags: attorney jobs, intellectual property attorney jobs, legal jobs, patent attorney jobs

Share This | Posted in Job Seeker Tips, Job Search, Sweet Jobs, New College Grads | No Comments