Duties and responsibilities
Prepare and draft legal correspondence including responses to client enquiries, routine correspondence, accounting enquiries in accordance with client standing instructions
Deal with urgent matters and client requests
Coordinate Trade Marks clearance projects, conducting searches and international screening and formal counsel searches
Prepare and file Trade Mark applications, including electronic filings with follow through to registration and post-registration, maintenance and renewals
Coordinate with foreign counsel on international clearance, filing, maintenance and renewal matters: oversee processing of foreign associates' invoices for payment, and prepare reporting letters to client.
Provide opinions and quotes on the registerability of Trade Marks in Africa and international territories
Effect portfolio transfers and manage multi-client portfolios
Prepare and file Powers of Attorney and letters of instruction
Assist in Trade Mark filing strategy discussions and due diligence
Report official actions
Address and assist with Classification queries
Update client standing instructions and A&A's records
Conduct research
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
Admitted attorney
Post qualification experience required
Trade Marks Prosecution experience
Qualified Trade Marks Practitioner or busy with SAIIPL exams
Experience of working in an IP firm will be highly advantageous
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