Presently, there are at least twenty five major firms in New York City that are actively seeking patent litigation associates. In addition, there are probably at least as many smaller firms that are actively seeking patent litigation associates. What does this mean? It means that if you are a patent litigation associate and you are not absolutely thrilled with your current position, then it is a fantastic time to commence a job search.
The factors that you need to consider are how much experience do firms generally require, what science backgrounds are most in demand, and does a boutique or large firm make more sense for you.
How much experience do New York City firms require in a lateral patent litigation candidate?
There are no absolute rules regarding the number of years of experience for patent litigation candidates because there are simply not enough of you to fill the growing demand. I have seen firms whose position listings state “three to five years of experience” hire candidates with less than two full years of experience. The reason is simple: scarcity. Thus, if you are interested in a particular firm, but fall either below or above the stated number of years of experience, do not be discouraged. You should submit your resume because it is highly likely that you will be asked for an interview.
What science backgrounds are most in demand in New York City for patent litigation candidates?
The science backgrounds most in demand in New York City for patent litigation candidates are Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Furthermore, while advanced degrees in these areas are a plus, they are often not required, as most firms are satisfied with undergraduate degrees in either of these two disciplines.
Patent litigation candidates with life science backgrounds – Biology and Chemistry- are not as in demand. Moreover, when firms are looking for these types of candidates, they often require advanced degrees. There does appear to be a burgeoning increase for patent litigation candidates with life science backgrounds who have experience with the pharmaceutical industry, especially experience with Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDA) and/or Hatch Waxman litigation.
Does a boutique or large firm make more sense for you?
Both options have their merits and in large part, what you want as a lateral may depend upon what your experience has been to date with your current firm. I have spoken with large firm candidates who are far more interested in joining a boutique because they feel that they have not had the proper mentoring at their large firms. The foregoing is especially true if a candidate is the only attorney at his firm with a Ph.D. in Pharmacology (or Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or any other discipline) because there is no one who can adequately monitor his progress! Conversely, I have spoken with candidates who began their careers at intellectual property boutiques and they are very eager to move to a large firm situation where they are “unique” and can carve out their own niche.
Please see this article to find out if litigation is right for you: Why Most Attorneys Have No Business Being Litigators: Fifteen Reasons Why You Should Not Be a Litigator
Conclusion
If you are a New York City patent litigation associate with an Electrical Engineering or Computer Science degree who has one full year of experience and you are not 100% satisfied with your current position, then now is an excellent time to commence a search for a new position because YOU are most definitely in demand! About Harrison Barnes
Harrison Barnes is a prominent figure in the legal placement industry, known for his expertise in attorney placements and his extensive knowledge of the legal profession.
With over 25 years of experience, he has established himself as a leading voice in the field and has helped thousands of lawyers and law students find their ideal career paths.
Barnes is a former federal law clerk and associate at Quinn Emanuel and a graduate of the University of Chicago College and the University of Virginia Law School. He was a Rhodes Scholar Finalist at the University of Chicago and a member of the University of Virginia Law Review. Early in his legal career, he enrolled in Stanford Business School but dropped out because he missed legal recruiting too much.
Barnes' approach to the legal industry is rooted in his commitment to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. He believes that the key to success in the legal profession is to be proactive, persistent, and disciplined in one's approach to work and life. He encourages lawyers to take ownership of their careers and to focus on developing their skills and expertise in a way that aligns with their passions and interests.
One of how Barnes provides support to lawyers is through his writing. On his blog, HarrisonBarnes.com, and BCGSearch.com, he regularly shares his insights and advice on a range of topics related to the legal profession. Through his writing, he aims to empower lawyers to control their careers and make informed decisions about their professional development.
One of Barnes's fundamental philosophies in his writing is the importance of networking. He believes that networking is a critical component of career success and that it is essential for lawyers to establish relationships with others in their field. He encourages lawyers to attend events, join organizations, and connect with others in the legal community to build their professional networks.
Another central theme in Barnes' writing is the importance of personal and professional development. He believes that lawyers should continuously strive to improve themselves and develop their skills to succeed in their careers. He encourages lawyers to pursue ongoing education and training actively, read widely, and seek new opportunities for growth and development.
In addition to his work in the legal industry, Barnes is also a fitness and lifestyle enthusiast. He sees fitness and wellness as integral to his personal and professional development and encourages others to adopt a similar mindset. He starts his day at 4:00 am and dedicates several daily hours to running, weightlifting, and pursuing spiritual disciplines.
Finally, Barnes is a strong advocate for community service and giving back. He volunteers for the University of Chicago, where he is the former area chair of Los Angeles for the University of Chicago Admissions Office. He also serves as the President of the Young Presidents Organization's Century City Los Angeles Chapter, where he works to support and connect young business leaders.
In conclusion, Harrison Barnes is a visionary legal industry leader committed to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. Through his work at BCG Attorney Search, writing, and community involvement, he empowers lawyers to take control of their careers, develop their skills continuously, and lead fulfilling and successful lives. His philosophy of being proactive, persistent, and disciplined, combined with his focus on personal and professional development, makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to succeed in the legal profession.
About BCG Attorney Search
BCG Attorney Search matches attorneys and law firms with unparalleled expertise and drive, while achieving results. Known globally for its success in locating and placing attorneys in law firms of all sizes, BCG Attorney Search has placed thousands of attorneys in law firms in thousands of different law firms around the country. Unlike other legal placement firms, BCG Attorney Search brings massive resources of over 150 employees to its placement efforts locating positions and opportunities its competitors simply cannot. Every legal recruiter at BCG Attorney Search is a former successful attorney who attended a top law school, worked in top law firms and brought massive drive and commitment to their work. BCG Attorney Search legal recruiters take your legal career seriously and understand attorneys. For more information, please visit www.BCGSearch.com.
Harrison Barnes does a weekly free webinar with live Q&A for attorneys and law students each Wednesday at 10:00 am PST. You can attend anonymously and ask questions about your career, this article, or any other legal career-related topics. You can sign up for the weekly webinar here: Register on Zoom
Harrison also does a weekly free webinar with live Q&A for law firms, companies, and others who hire attorneys each Wednesday at 10:00 am PST. You can sign up for the weekly webinar here: Register on Zoom
You can browse a list of past webinars here: Webinar Replays
You can also listen to Harrison Barnes Podcasts here: Attorney Career Advice Podcasts
You can also read Harrison Barnes' articles and books here: Harrison's Perspectives
Harrison Barnes is the legal profession's mentor and may be the only person in your legal career who will tell you why you are not reaching your full potential and what you really need to do to grow as an attorney--regardless of how much it hurts. If you prefer truth to stagnation, growth to comfort, and actionable ideas instead of fluffy concepts, you and Harrison will get along just fine. If, however, you want to stay where you are, talk about your past successes, and feel comfortable, Harrison is not for you.
Truly great mentors are like parents, doctors, therapists, spiritual figures, and others because in order to help you they need to expose you to pain and expose your weaknesses. But suppose you act on the advice and pain created by a mentor. In that case, you will become better: a better attorney, better employees, a better boss, know where you are going, and appreciate where you have been--you will hopefully also become a happier and better person. As you learn from Harrison, he hopes he will become your mentor.
To read more career and life advice articles visit Harrison's personal blog.
