How to Become an IP Lawyer
A career in intellectual property (IP) law can be challenging and rewarding. Intellectual property includes ideas or creations of the mind for which property rights are recognized. IP attorneys practice in private firms, corporations and government entities. With careful planning and the required education, this career can provide many opportunities for the practice of law.
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Instructions
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Obtain a bachelor's degree. While most IP attorneys have technical backgrounds, it is not required. Take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), which is required by most law schools. Higher scores on the LSAT provide more law-school opportunities. Apply for admission to a law school that fits your needs and your educational and testing qualifications.
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Research intellectual property while attending law school to determine which area you want to pursue. Intellectual property law includes patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets. Most IP attorneys specialize in one of these areas. While in law school, take classes in these areas and in business law.
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Obtain a license in the state in which you want to practice law. To get a license to practice law, you must pass a state's bar exam. Bar exams vary depending on the state, but usually you must pass the national multiple-choice exam and a state-specific essay exam.
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Pass the patent bar exam to register to practice before the United States Patent and Tradement Office (USPTO), if you choose to go into the field of patents. The USPTO has jurisdiction over most intellectual property rights.
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Tips & Warnings
Talk to intellectual property professionals before entering the field to learn what type of work you will be doing. If you want to pursue patent law, obtain your bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical area.
References
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