Supreme Court and Appellate Associate - Patent Appeals and IP

Job Overview

A law firm seeks a Supreme Court and Appellate Associate specializing in patent appeals and intellectual property in Chicago, IL. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in handling complex technical subject matter across high-tech and life-sciences industries, working in a collegial and diverse environment.

Duties

• Focus on Federal Circuit patent appeals and other IP cases in high-tech and life-sciences sectors.
• Draft appellate briefs, petitions for certiorari, and amicus briefs.
• Conduct sophisticated legal research and analysis on complex patent-law and IP issues.
• Assist in developing appellate strategy and identifying key legal arguments.
• Collaborate with trial teams to preserve appellate issues and develop records for appeal.
• Prepare for and participate in moot courts and oral argument preparation.
• Advise clients on appellate procedure, potential outcomes, and strategic considerations.
• Engage deeply with technical subject matter.

Requirements

• J.D. from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials.
• Admission to at least one state bar; Federal Circuit admission preferred.
• 5-7 years of experience in appellate litigation, focusing on patent and IP appeals.
• Prior clerkship experience, especially with the Federal Circuit or a district court with a significant patent docket.
• Demonstrated experience drafting appellate briefs and substantive motions in patent or IP matters.
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and communicate effectively with clients and colleagues.
• Commitment to the highest standards of professional excellence.
• Experience with life-sciences patent matters is ideal but not required.

Education

• J.D. from an accredited law school.

Certifications

• Admission to at least one state bar; Federal Circuit admission preferred.

Skills

• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Ability to distill complex technical and legal issues into clear, persuasive arguments.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Mental well-being programs and family care benefits.
• Short- and long-term disability and parental leave benefits.
• Health savings account contributions and flexible spending accounts.
• 401K program.
• Flexible Time Off program and paid holidays.