A patent attorney:

• manages client patent portfolios on a daily basis, including liasing with and advising clients, monitoring patent application examination and enforcement, and communicating with intellectual property firms around the world;
• is involved in all areas of patent work, such as patent application drafting and prosecution (including work for both local and overseas clients) as well as oppositions, search reporting and the preparation of infringement and validity advice;
• provides advice on research and commercialisation strategies; and
• liaises with Davies Collison Cave Solicitors, to provide technical advice with respect to technology transfer agreements and litigation (for example).

In the first year, as a trainee attorney, the salary paid will depend on your qualifications and experience. At Davies Collison Cave we also pay for the accredited patent and trade mark course of study. Where your salary goes from there is up to you - your ability will be one of the deciding factors.

What qualifications do I need to become a patent attorney?

We look for people who:

• have at least an honours degree in science, but preferably post-graduate experience and/or qualifications;
• have excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• have an ability to think analytically and laterally; and
• are willing to take on the extra study required to qualify as a patent and trade mark attorney.

How to become a patent and trade mark attorney?

To be registered as a patent and trade mark attorney you must:

• possess a diploma, degree or post graduate qualification from an authorised Higher Education institute in a field of technology that contains potentially patentable subject matter;
• be a resident of Australia;
• have worked with a registered patent attorney or be employed in a company practicing patent matters for at least one year; and
• have successfully completed an accredited patent and trade mark course of study.