Litigation Paralegal

Carpmaels & Ransford, Litigation Paralegal

We are a leading European intellectual property firm, advising some of the world’s most innovative and successful companies. Together, we help to improve lives by supporting innovation.

We hire talented and passionate people who think creatively and enjoy a challenge.

Working collaboratively, we share our knowledge and experience across teams, actively learning from each other in a friendly and sociable environment.

We are passionate about creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Diversity of thought is vital to our business; it’s how we approach challenges differently and offer our clients creative and original solutions. Through our work with organisations such as IP Inclusive, Stonewall and Business in the Community via the Race at Work Charter, we are putting the right steps in place to make sure that all our people feel supported and empowered to be themselves Further information on our commitment to diversity and inclusion is available on our website.

A healthy work/life balance is very important to us, and we run regular wellbeing events in addition to the large number of clubs and social activities that are available to everyone at the firm. We are also enthusiastic supporters of our local community through partnerships with the Social Mobility Foundation and Holborn Community Association.

Working within the Litigation / Dispute Resolution team, with a particular focus on patents and trademarks, this role provides support to the litigation team. This position will report to our Litigation Paralegal Manager.

The team has enjoyed rapid growth since its inception in October 2014. This role presents an exciting opportunity for an ambitious paralegal to work in a fast paced and stimulating environment with ample scope for growth and, in the longer term, potential to take on the management of their own caseload.

Candidates with an interest or background in IP/Science/Technology may find this position of particular interest, as will candidates interested in supporting and contributing to the growth of a dynamic and highly ambitious litigation team.

• Research into specific areas of patent and/or trademark litigation and case law, primarily in the UK but also throughout the EU from time to time.
• Assisting with the preparation of evidence and exhibits.
• Assisting with document disclosure review tasks.
• Preparation of bundles for internal and external use (both electronic and paper).
• Preparation of materials for use at Court hearings in accordance with relevant practice guide.
• Providing support for and attendance at Court during hearings including trials.
• Providing assistance with filing pleadings and case related documents on iManage and maintaining matter space as litigation progresses.
• Providing assistance and support with business development initiatives.
• Interaction with all fee earners within the group, to include integration into case specific teams in the run up to trial.
• In due course, assisting with the preparation of precedents and templates and/or the regular dissemination of key case law / practice direction updates to the litigation team.
• Working alongside patent attorneys and litigators in unique and fully integrated case teams.

Key skills and qualifications:

• Educated to degree level or equivalent.
• Demonstrable paralegal/legal experience is helpful, ideally in active litigation cases and patents in particular.
• Knowledge of IP litigation, in particular patents and trademarks, and the various forums, such as but not limited to the High Court, the Court of Appeal, the EPO and/or the UKIPO.

Person Specification:

• Team player.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Organised, diligent and methodical with attention to detail.
• Recognises the importance of and can meet deadlines and remain calm under pressure.
• A self-starter with the ability to work on own initiative.
• Previous experience of patents would be highly desirable.
• Ability to communicate with employees at all levels within the firm and across all Practice Groups and business support areas.
• Extensive IT abilities, to include…