Chartered Patent Attorneys

Working in partnership with The Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys, Inside Careers brings you the official and only career guide to focus on the patent profession

Key to jobs & links

Graduate Job
Internship experience
Industrial placement
Company profile
Trainee profile

Trainee Profile

As a student I found science subjects the most rewarding, whilst appreciating the art of expression. I had no desire to become a research scientist, preferring to be employed in a commercial setting. Intellectual Property seemed the perfect solution, so I enrolled at Queen Mary, University of London on their Intellectual Property MSc. This provided an excellent grounding in intellectual property law, and upon successful completion, exemption from the foundation level examinations that other trainees must pass.

I joined Barker Brettell in 2007. Established c.1850, it is one of the largest intellectual property firms in the UK, evidenced by the tremendous depth of experience and expertise present. It was reassuring to know that I would have experience in a wide variety of technologies, and that the capacity exists to involve trainees in all the many facets of the profession. Despite the size of the firm the experience is not impersonal; much of my time was spent with my supervising partner and other professional and support personnel who were actively involved in my development.

There was a great atmosphere among the staff, particularly the trainees. Help was always on hand for training and examination preparation. There were many social events, including bowling nights and meals out. Many also made use of the local football pitches, squash courts and golf courses together.

A career as a patent attorney is one of few where you will experience genuine lifelong learning. The combination of science, law and linguistics is probably equally as rare. The profession is challenging and rewarding, but a good work/life balance can be maintained. I commend the career to you and Barker Brettell as a place to start it.