I started at Abel + Imray in October 2020 after spending two years working as a Research Engineer for a large technology company. While working in Engineering I got to know some in-house patent attorneys and decided that I wanted to pursue a career in IP. I am based in the Bath office and work with a variety of attorneys on cases that cover a wide range of subject matter, from aviation to contact lenses.
Why did you choose a job in this profession?
I was intrigued by the unique combination of law, science and writing. I also wanted to have the opportunity to work with a variety of subject matter. During my time in Engineering, my work focused on a very specific technology area. As a trainee patent attorney, I can start the day working on a patent for an aircraft part and end the day working on a loudspeaker. I find that this variation keeps me motivated and excited about my job.
What does a typical day/week look like?
In a typical week, I will spend three days working in the office and two days working from home. The firm is very flexible in its approach to working from home, which has been really beneficial for me. I find the social aspect of working in the Bath Office very enjoyable. There are usually a good number of people in and we have regular social events after work and at lunch times that give us a chance to get to know each other better.
My daily work consists of drafting patent applications, responding to communications from the UK or European patent offices, communicating with clients and advising foreign attorneys. Most training happens on the job. All of my work is checked by a qualified attorney before it is sent out and I am regularly given detailed feedback on my work. I find that having a go at a task and then getting feedback on how to improve is a very effective way to learn.
Qualification
In order to become qualified there are a number of UK and European exams that you need to pass. At Abel + Imray, trainees take the Certificate in Intellectual Property course at QMUL once they have been in the job for around a year. While attending the Certificate course you only work two half days in the office and the rest of your week is spent attending and preparing for lectures. I passed the Certificate course in January 2022 and I am now preparing for UK finals in October.
