Intellectual Property Paralegal
Career Path
Intellectual Property Paralegal
Career Path
Paralegals who support intellectual property attorneys work on legal matters related to copyrights, trademarks, patents and unfair competition. A career in intellectual property can be a great choice for motivated paralegals who are detail-oriented and enjoy a fast-paced work environment.
WHAT BACKGROUND IS NEEDED TO WORK AS AN INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY PARALEGAL?
While intellectual property paralegals work closely with attorneys, it is not necessary to have a law degree for this role. In many cases, it is possible to obtain an entry-level role as an intellectual property paralegal with a two-year associate degree in paralegal studies or similar. For professionals who have already earned a college degree in another field, earning a paralegal certificate can demonstrate to prospective employers that they have the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in this role.
Successful intellectual property paralegals possess excellent written and verbal communication skills; are comfortable using legal technology; are able to efficiently conduct legal research; are organized; and have a solid understanding of the different types of intellectual property protections available under U.S. law.
WHAT DOES AN INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY PARALEGAL DO?
The specific job duties for an intellectual property paralegal depend largely on what type of work the supervising attorney or team typically handles. An employer may focus on defense matters, intellectual property claims, or helping people obtain protection under intellectual property laws by applying for patents, trademarks and copyrights.
Paralegals supporting prosecuting or defense attorneys may be involved in conducting legal research, preparing legal filings, and helping attorneys manage litigation matters and appeals. For intellectual property protection, paralegal job duties may include preparing drafts of applications and filings after researching and gathering information.
WHY CONSIDER PARALEGAL JOBS IN INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LICENSING LAW?
Working as an intellectual property paralegal can be personally and professionally rewarding. The work environment is typically in a professional office setting but may involve visiting clients’ locations and courtrooms — if the attorneys you support handle intellectual property litigation.
The intellectual property paralegal salary depends on the size of the law firm; in what part of the country the firm is located; and the types of intellectual property matters they handle. As of 2023, the median annual wage for all paralegals across all practice areas was $60,970. However, given the specialized nature of intellectual property law, it is not unusual for paralegals working in these types of roles to make significantly more than this, earning more than six figures in some cases.
PREPARE TO BE AN INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY PARALEGAL WITH GENERATIONS COLLEGE
Generations College offers a two-year Paralegal Studies degree program designed to prepare motivated adults to work in a variety of paralegal roles, including as intellectual property paralegals. In this program, you will learn key legal terms, gain experience preparing legal documents, become adept at conducting legal research, hone your legal writing skills and more.
This exciting degree program is offered on Generations College’s campus in the heart of Chicago as well as in an accredited online format, so you can choose the option that makes the most sense for you. If you are ready to take the first step toward becoming an intellectual property paralegal, apply online today! Contact us to learn more about our paralegal studies program.