Role Overview

A well‑established Intellectual Property practice in Charlotte is looking to add an experienced IP Litigation Paralegal/Patent Assistant to support a dynamic team of IP litigators and patent prosecution attorneys. This position combines substantial responsibility within Federal IP litigation (primarily patent matters) and domestic/international patent prosecution. The individual in this role will manage time‑sensitive tasks, coordinate with attorneys and external parties, and ensure that filings, research, and documentation are handled with exceptional accuracy.

This is a full‑time, onsite opportunity, ideal for someone who values teamwork, long‑term stability, and an environment that invests in professional growth.

What Makes This Role Unique

• No billable hour requirement – the position is internally classified as a Special Projects role

• Strong, people‑first culture – supportive, collaborative IP team known for being personable and encouraging

• Long‑term growth – the group actively promotes from within (e.g., an administrative team member recently became a Patent Assistant)

• Excellent benefits after 2 years – eligible for an annual discretionary 401(k) contribution, historically ~7% of salary (not guaranteed)

• Very low overtime – typically 20 hours per year

• Free parking, paid directly by the firm

Primary Responsibilities

Litigation Support (Federal IP Focus)

• Draft deposition summaries, initial versions of pleadings, and litigation‑related documents

• Prepare, edit, and distribute correspondence, memoranda, forms, and contracts

• Organize, index, and track case materials, including client‑provided documentation

• Assist with exhibit preparation and trial binders; arrange materials for hearings, arbitrations, and trials

• Perform legal and factual research, including cite‑checking, case law review, jury verdict research, and expert background searches

• Coordinate with expert witnesses and manage related communications

• Work with litigation support tools to assemble and maintain exhibits and testimony materials

• Attend trials/arbitrations as needed to support the litigation team

Patent Prosecution Support

• Prepare and file IDS, U.S. patent applications, and responses to Office Actions

• Manage tasks through the patent lifecycle, including post‑allowance steps and fee payments

• Handle PCT filings and maintain communication with foreign associates, clients, and inventors

• Communicate directly with USPTO personnel to resolve procedural questions

• Maintain accurate, complete prosecution files and records

• Monitor docketed deadlines (in coordination with the firm's docketing department)

What We’re Looking For

Required Background

• Minimum 5 years in Federal IP litigation and patent prosecution

• A combination of patent litigation + prosecution experience is essential (role is heavily patent‑focused)

• Familiarity with PACER, Federal Court ECF, and handling filings across various jurisdictions

• Strong understanding of the U.S. patent system, including Office Actions and PCT applications

• Excellent organizational habits, consistent follow‑through, and professional communication

• Demonstrated stability in prior roles (tenure is important)

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; comfort with litigation support tools

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree

• Paralegal certificate

• Experience supporting multiple attorneys simultaneously

Who You’ll Support

You will work closely with:

• Two IP Litigation Partners

• Two Patent Prosecution Partners

• Several associates on both the litigation and prosecution teams

Work Environment

• Full‑time, 100% onsite in the Charlotte office

• Friendly, approachable team

• Firm culture that values community, balance, and individual recognition

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Military connected talent encouraged to apply

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The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

• The California Fair Chance Act
• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.