Why patent law?
As you may well be aware from reading other entries in this booklet, patent law is often described as a combination of science and law. I, like many before me, was lured in with this premise in mind.
Having just been awarded my degree, I was reluctant to put it to one side and never use it again. However, as I was interested in a range of topics, it didn’t make sense for me to pursue just one. I have always enjoyed arguing and been happy to play devil’s advocate for pretty much any stance. Patent law was a great fit as it requires this careful consideration to eliminate potential avenues for opposition while giving you an insight into some really interesting technology from a whole range of topics.
Why Barker Brettell?
Barker Brettell has a high percentage of UK clients and so is involved with a lot more primary drafting than some other firms. In terms of career progression, it was important to me to get lots of hands-on experience of fundamentals like drafting and prosecution, to build proper foundations for my career in IP.
After I had interviewed at a few firms, what really set BB apart was how friendly everyone was. Barker Brettell has a charming atmosphere where your colleagues are always willing you to succeed.
What is an average day like?
On a typical day, my work may involve researching prior art and formulating legal arguments in response to an examiner’s objections. I also spend a lot of time writing new drafts. It’s always a privilege when a client passionately describes their invention, brimming with excitement. It’s then our job to describe its key features in a way that provides the largest scope of protection.
One of the benefits of working at BB is the early exposure to these types of work, which is great from a training perspective, and should really help with my exams. Working alongside a supervising associate means that guidance is always there if I need it and there are always a host of happy colleagues to reach out to with questions.
My advice
Try and get any experience in the field you can, even if it’s just in the form of open days, or reaching out to individuals. If you are willing to put in the time and effort to research the career, firms will notice you.
