Associate I/II - Cape Town
Full job description
Duties and responsibilities
Preparing and drafting of correspondence to clients and colleagues
Coordinating trade marks clearance projects, conducting searches and international screening searches
Preparing and filing trade mark applications, including electronic filings with follow through to registration and post-registration, maintenance and renewals
Coordinating with foreign counsel on international clearance matters, filings, maintenance and renewal matters
Providing opinions and quotes on the registrability of trade marks in various territories
Effect portfolio transfers and manage large client portfolios
Prepare and file Powers of Attorney and letters of instruction
Researching law and drafting opinions
Dealing with a variety of IP related litigation matters, including matters relating to trade mark infringement, cancellation and opposition, name objections and domain name disputes
Dealing with enquiries and advising clients in relation to copyright queries and dealing with litigation relating to copyright disputes
Dealing with regulatory queries relating to advertising and labelling
Skills and knowledge
Computer literate in Microsoft Word
Excellent language skills (good command of English, both written and verbal)
Must understand the debiting procedures
A meticulous, responsible person with a sense of urgency, who is able to prioritise duties
Attention to detail is essential
A conscientious, loyal and dedicated person, with the ability to think laterally
Someone with a professional attitude
Ability to give clear instructions to a secretary
Prepared to work long hours where necessary
Ability to work independently and under supervision
Ability to handle the pressure of having to cope with large workload
Knowledge of relevant Acts – e.g. Trade Marks Act, would be an advantage.
Willingness to learn.
Qualification/s
An admitted attorney with at least 2 years PQE
Must have experience in a private legal practice
Trade Marks experience (litigation and prosecution)
LLB degree is a requirement
Post-graduate degrees such as LLM will be an added advantage
Must have excellent academic credentials
Experience in litigation (High Court) is essential
Qualified Trade Mark Practitioner or busy with SAIIPL exams
Experience working in an IP firm (Intellectual Property) will be highly advantageous
