Why Patent Law?
I wanted to get into patent law for two main reasons: the first reason was that, a career in research didn’t appeal to me – I still wanted to be at the forefront of innovation and to make use of the specific technical knowledge that I had gained from my degree; the second reason was that, while completing my final year undergraduate project with an SME, I was able to discuss the needs of businesses to secure IP their rights with one of the products managers – this really interested me.
Why Barker Brettell?
Before sitting my final year exams, I applied to a number of firms offering trainee positions. Although Barker Brettell has an impressive client portfolio, the thing that appealed to me most about the firm was the friendliness of the staff and the firm’s informal ethos. The application process for the position was simple: no psychometric testing, no perplexing questions; just straightforward interviews which I found to be quite easy-going. This reflects the firm relaxed and personal approach when it comes to doing business – this suits my own style of doing things and is something that clients often really appreciate.
Training at Barker Brettell
As a trainee, a usual day is spent working with my supervising partner, with whom I share an office. He provides me with a steady stream of work and is my first port of call when I have any questions (and I have many!). Other attorneys within the team, with different technical backgrounds, also provide me with work and are always happy to help.
The vast majority of the work that I complete relates to UK and European patent prosecution. My main duties include reviewing search and examination reports, and reporting the findings to clients (both overseas agents and direct clients), as well as responding to examination reports. Occasionally, I have to research unusual client queries – this is really useful for the exams. I particularly enjoy attending new and existing client meetings, which often result in new patent drafting work.
Summary
Training to be a patent attorney is undoubtedly challenging at times, but it can also be extremely rewarding! I’m very glad that I chose to begin my training at Barker Brettell.
