Legal Assistant - Patent (15 Month Contract)

at  Aird Berlis LLP

WHO WE ARE:

Aird & Berlis LLP is a prominent Canadian law firm located in the heart of Toronto’s financial district, across from Union Station. With more than 250 lawyers and intellectual property professionals, we serve clients across Canada and globally.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

Aird and Berlis LLP is looking for a Legal Assistant – Patent for a 15 month contract. The individual should who has worked in the patent area and understands how patent practice works. The ideal candidate should be an expert communicator and will thrive in an environment where they can work both independently and in collaboration with colleagues. They should have a proven track record of working in a fast paced environment and managing a high volume practice.
The successful candidate should have a customer service mentality for both internal and external clients, as well as a strong sense of urgency is essential in this role.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum of 5 years of previous experience as a Patent Legal Assistant
• Successful completion of a post-secondary education, preferably in a Legal Assistant Program
• Ability to use discretion when dealing with confidential information
• Handle time pressure situations and stress of multiple demands

SKILLS:

• Microsoft 365 Suite of Applications (including Word, Excel and Workshare Compare)
• Knowledge of PATTSY is considered an asset
• Strong verbal and written communication
• Ability to problem solve
• Good judgement and decision making
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Organized
• Resourceful
• Detailed

• Monitor all patent due dates and follow up accordingly
• File responses to Office Actions
• Prepare forms and application filing papers for Canadian, US and Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) applications
• Correspond/communicate with clients
• Complete weekly and monthly reports for clients
• Process expense reports
• Coordinate a high volume workload with great accuracy and organization
• Calendar management
• Manage duties related to accounting and specifically accounts/billing
• Handle daily administrative details
• Produce the highest quality of work
• Accountable for all work assigned
• Take initiative
• Confidential