Trademark Paralegal

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is seeking a
highly experienced Trademark Paralegal to join our dynamic Brand Protection Team
in our Chicago, Milwaukee or Waukesha office
. Are you a seasoned Trademark Paralegal with a proven track record of expertly managing all aspects of the trademark lifecycle? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment and possess a meticulous eye for detail? If so, Michael Best invites you to bring your expertise and passion to our organization.

As a key member of our Brand Protection team, you will play a vital role in protecting and managing our clients’ valuable trademark portfolios. You will work closely with our attorneys, providing critical support on a wide range of trademark matters. We value proactive individuals who can work independently, anticipate needs, and contribute meaningfully to our team's success. The role is a hybrid role.

• Manage and maintain a large docket of domestic and international trademark portfolios, including monitoring deadlines and ensuring timely filings
• Prepare and file trademark applications, responses to office actions, statements of use, renewals, assignments, and other relevant documents with the USPTO and WIPO
• Coordinate with foreign associates on international trademark matters, ensuring compliance with local regulations and procedures
• Conduct comprehensive trademark clearance searches and analyze search results
• Manage an internal docket of trademarks and create docket reports
• Independently communicate with clients regarding trademark portfolio updates and deadlines
• Prepare and file U.S. copyright and U.S. Customs applications
• Prepare trademark filing estimates and budgets
• Assist with intellectual property audits and due diligence
• Stay abreast of changes in trademark law and practice

Knowledge Base &

Education:

• A minimum of 5 years of dedicated experience as a Trademark Paralegal, preferably in a medium or large size law firm or corporate legal department
• A strong understanding of U.S. and international trademark law, rules, and procedures
• Extensive experience with USPTO's online filing systems, TMEP and other relevant online resources
• Proficiency in managing trademark portfolios using specialized docketing software. Experience with Anaqua is a plus
• Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail
• The ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines effectively, work independently and with a team
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• A bachelor’s degree or a paralegal certificate is highly preferred
• Ability to learn and embrace new skills and best practices as the position evolves and Firm needs change
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Ability to work well independently as well as effectively within a team
• Ability to develop relationships and foster teamwork at all levels of the Firm
• Communicate ideas for process efficiencies

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with a diverse group of internal and external clients, attorneys, and staff
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to manage confidential information and sensitive situations with tact and discretion

• Ability and confidence to identify and analyze issues, make decisions, and initiate actions/solutions
• Ability to respond to unexpected challenges, including proactively developing innovative solutions to complex problems while maintaining a professional demeanor

• Demonstrate “client first” mentality
• Ability to maintain composure and demonstrate good judgment

• Valid authorization to work in the U.S.

This is an opportunity to work with the Best
. We are Michael Best & Friedrich, LLP
. We are a full-service law firm with more than 350 lawyers and technical professionals who work in collaborative, interdisciplinary practices to serve clients around the world.

We work with companies in all kinds of industries, as well as trade associations, nonprofits, educational institutions, governments, family trusts, and high-net-worth individuals. Since our firm’s…