Over the years, patent law has become a lucrative career choice for many individuals looking to blend their scientific education with the law. It offers various paths, ranging from patent paralegals that review USPTO databases and resolve patent data discrepancies to patent attorneys involved in patent litigation or prosecution. But, is a career in patent law worth the effort, and is it low stress?
The Journey
This is perhaps the most stress-inducing and challenging part of a career in patent law, but that is true for any job in the field of law. They all require time, energy, and dedication to get there. For one, the profession requires a technical degree and the patent bar must be passed in order to practice. The exam is one of the most difficult in the country, with a pass rate of less than 50%.
Many people have found that starting as a patent agent and working their way up is the best path. As a patent agent, one can represent patent applicants before the USPTO for their clients.
The Career
In patent law, the ultimate goal is to protect and secure your client’s intellectual property rights. It is by no means an individual effort and takes a group of legal experts and technical specialists to succeed. Stress may come in the form of long working hours, demanding clients, and tight deadlines, but that is true for any law firm.
You may enjoy the job aspect where you interact with clients and their creative ideas, discussing their invention, and researching the likelihood of successfully attaining a patent.
Alternatively, if you become a patent attorney, then you may like to involve yourself in court proceedings, brand protection, and copyright battles. Either way, there are diverse roles you can perform with a variety of clients. Most people in IP firms claim an excellent work-life balance compared to other sectors of the law.
The Reward
Jobs in patent law seem to pay off and offer a fitting reward to anyone who wants to pursue them further.
According to payscale.com, entry-level Patent Agents can expect to earn an average total compensation of around $80,000. If a patent agent is skilled in intellectual property (IP), prosecution, and biotechnology, they are more likely to earn above-average pay.
Patent attorneys, on the other hand, are more likely to start closer to $100,000. Again, with skills in intellectual property (IP), prosecution, and biotechnology, they are more likely to earn above-average pay.
Many factors contribute to stress in the workplace. A large part of it is due to what is required of a person. You may feel like things are out of control if you don’t have the necessary resources, skills, or have other worries to deal with. But, if you are confident that your scientific background is suited for a career in patent law, you are more likely to overcome the challenges to get there.