IP Trademark Legal Assistant
The Position
Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is looking for a proactive and highly organized Legal Assistant to join our Chicago, Milwaukee, or Waukesha office! The Legal Assistant will provide legal and administrative support to timekeepers in the Intellectual Property (IP) practice group. Prior experience as an IP legal assistant with an emphasis in the Trademark practice and experience supporting IP attorneys is required.
Responsibilities & Duties:
- Manage an active calendar of appointments, meetings, video calls and travel on behalf of attorneys
- Process new client/matter documentation including initiation of conflict checks, input information into Firm's new business intake system and prepare engagement letters to clients
- Prepare and format confidential correspondence
- Transcribe, type, edit, proofread, and finalize legal documents, correspondence, memos, charts, TTAB filings, and reports
- Organize and maintain electronic files
- Respond to and resolve questions or concerns from clients and other attorneys in a timely and professional manner
- Prepare and submit personal and client-related attorney expense reports and reimbursements into Firm’s expense management software, Emburse
- Enter time into time management software on behalf of timekeepers
- Communicate with clients as to billing issues and status of matters
- Assist in tracking continuing legal education credit for assigned legal staff
- Assist with civic, charitable, community, and professional activities, as workload permits
- Docket maintenance and tracking of reports with IP software.
Job Requirements
- High School Diploma or equivalent required; Certificate or Undergraduate Degree strongly preferred
- IP: 5+ years’ experience in a legal environment, preferably in the Intellectual Property practice areas
- Ability and willingness to work in the office four to five days per week
- Professional demeanor and willingness to work proactively as part of a team across various practice groups
- Exceptional communication skills via phone, email, and in-person
- Strong organizational and process skills, focused attention to detail, and ability to spot inaccuracies and inconsistencies in documents
- Valid authorization to work in the U.S.
- Technology literacy and willingness to learn innovative technologies and software
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office
- Experience in the following software a plus:
- Anaqua or similar electronic IP docketing/reporting software
- iManage or similar electronic document management system
- DocuSign or similar e-signature program
- iTimekeep or similar electronic time management system
- Chrome River or similar expense report and reimbursement software
- CourtAlert for TTAB tracking
- NAD filings
Adaptability:
- Ability to learn and embrace new skills and best practices as the position and Firm evolve
- Ability to work quickly and accurately under pressure with varying deadlines
- Ability to work independently as well as effectively within a team
- Ability to multi-task, set priorities, manage time effectively and exhibit excellent follow-up
Collaboration:
- Team player mentality, with a desire to be a part of a collaborative, high-performing group
- Ability to develop relationships and foster teamwork at all levels of the Firm
- Willingness and ability to work proactively in our team environment, across various groups and/or locations
Communication:
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with a diverse group of internal and external clients, attorneys, and staff
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
Problem Solving Skills:
- Ability and confidence to identify and analyze issues, make decisions, and initiate actions/solutions
- Agility to respond to unexpected challenges, including proactively developing innovative solutions to complex problems
Professionalism:
- Ability to maintain composure and demonstrate good judgment
- Ability to manage confidential information and sensitive situations with tact and discretion
This position can be based in our Chicago, Milwaukee, or Waukesha office. We have offices in Wisconsin (Green Bay, Madison, Milwaukee, Waukesha); Illinois (Chicago); Utah (Salt Lake City); Colorado (Denver, Broomfield); Texas (Austin); North Carolina (Charlotte, Durham, Raleigh, Wilmington); California (Los Angeles); Nebraska (Lincoln); and Washington DC. Our contemporary office spaces are ideal for concentration and collaboration; supporting our culture of working together to make great things happen for our Clients.
At Michael Best, we are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that provides a variety of resources designed to enhance its employees’ overall well-being, both at work and at home. Competitive base pay, outstanding benefits, opportunities for learning and growth, programs designed to help you plan for the future, and perks that inspire your downtime are all part of our total compensation package.
Why You Should Apply
Learning & Growth
We are committed to fostering an environment where every team member can thrive both personally and professionally. It's why we invest in and provide the following resources and guidance to help you grow your career with confidence.
- Challenging and Dynamic Role
- Career Development Planning
- Professional Growth Opportunities
- Performance Management and Coaching
- Specialized Training Programs
Health & Wellness
Our comprehensive benefits support the well-being of our people by prioritizing physical and mental health. From core health coverage to proactive wellness programs, we provide the tools you need to care for yourself at every stage of life.
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision Care
- Health Savings Accounts
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Wellness Program
- Employee and Family Assistance Program
Total Compensation
Our approach combines competitive pay with exceptional benefits and meaningful rewards that reflect the value each team member brings to our firm. We ensure everyone has the support they need to be at their best.
- Competitive Base Pay
- Annual Merit Review/Incentive Pay
- Outstanding Benefits
- Generous PTO Plus 10 Paid Holidays
Planning for the Future
We take a proactive approach to future planning by offering benefits designed to safeguard your financial and personal well-being.
- 401(k) with Company Contribution
- Paid Medical Leave
- Long Term Disability Plan
- Life Insurance
- Critical Illness Insurance
- Paid Parental Leave
Culture & Workplace
Our culture is built on trust, respect, and a shared commitment to excellence. As a growing firm with an exciting vision for the future, we offer a modern, flexible working environment that supports productivity, balance, and connection.
- Respected Organization with Collaborative Culture
- Growing Firm with an Exciting Future
- Contemporary Work Environment
- Positive and Respectful Work Climate
- Performance Recognition
To be considered for this position, please submit an application via our online portal.
Recruitment Agencies: Michael Best is not accepting unsolicited agency resumes for this position. Please do not forward resumes to our careers email address or any Firm employees. Michael Best is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.
Michael Best & Friedrich LLP and Michael Best Strategies LLC (collectively known as "Michael Best") are steadfastly committed to providing equal employment opportunity and maintaining a workplace for employees and applicants for employment that is free from discrimination based upon age, race, religion, color, disability, marital status, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact our Recruiting team at (414) 271-6560 or careers@michaelbest.com to let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.