JOB DESCRIPTION

A top-tier Canadian law firm is seeking Intellectual Property (IP) Legal Assistants to join their Vancouver and Toronto offices. These are exciting opportunities to be part of a nationally recognized IP team, supporting lawyers with a wide range of filings, docketing, and client service responsibilities in a collaborative, hybrid work environment.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Vancouver: Minimum 3+ years of experience as a Legal Assistant, ideally with exposure to IP law
• Toronto: Minimum 5+ years of experience as a Legal Assistant in an IP group
• Legal Assistant diploma or equivalent work experience
• Strong understanding of IP procedures and documentation (patents, trademarks, industrial design, copyright)
• High attention to detail with excellent grammar, spelling, and proofreading skills
• Advanced proficiency with MS Office and comfort with document management systems
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to balance competing priorities and meet strict deadlines
• Professional, collaborative approach with excellent communication skills

RESPONSIBILITIES (BOTH LOCATIONS):

• Prepare, format, and file patent, trademark, industrial design, and copyright applications with CIPO, USPTO, WIPO, and other relevant offices
• Draft and revise correspondence and submissions, including office action responses and cover letters
• Maintain docketing systems (e.g., Pattsy) to ensure accurate data entry, tracking deadlines, and generating reports
• Liaise with clients, agents, and government offices regarding IP applications and procedural updates
• Manage both electronic and physical IP files, ensuring all relevant documentation and correspondence are current
• Support lawyers with billing, prebills, expense reports, and client-specific billing instructions
• Provide backup coverage for colleagues and contribute to a team-oriented, knowledge-sharing environment

ADDITIONAL TORONTO RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support lawyers with regulatory practice, including conducting drug/patent searches, drafting PM(NOC)-related documents, and preparing correspondence to Health Canada/OPML
• Heavier emphasis on docket reporting, data management, and liaison with billing analysts