IP and Patent Litigation Associate

Who are we?

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C. is proud to be one of the most highly regarded intellectual property specialty law firms in the world. We are the only DC law firm ranked as Chambers "Band 1" for patent prosecution and we are a Vault "Best Midsize Firm to Work For." While our awards speak for themselves, we know our culture is what sets us apart in the industry. We recognize that it is the talent and dynamism of each individual that contributes to our shared success. We have cultivated an environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating with just the right touch of fun and exuberance.

What do we offer?

The Trial & Appellate Group (TAG) is dedicated to protecting our clients' most valuable assets, and we are seeking an IP litigator to help us continue achieving success As an Associate in TAG, you will experience a supportive and mentorship-driven work culture to help you continue growing and honing your legal skills. Associates are supported by two formal mentors and you have the opportunity to request a mentor change every year. You will have the opportunity to develop your legal skills in a premiere IP and patent firm. We rank in the top 10% of all firms in ITC activity, as the 4th most active firm at the Federal Circuit, and are in the top 5% of all firms in district court patent activity.

TAG prefers that Associates work a hybrid arrangement with a regular in-office presence in our Washington, DC office. However, we can be flexible for the right candidate.

The good faith base salary range for this position is $225,000 to $310,000 for a 2000 hour billable commitment. The actual salary rate offered to candidates will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, years of relevant experience, education, and the candidate's overall qualifications for the position as assessed by the firm.

The firm has a flexible hours program under which an associate can request a lower billable hour goal with a commensurate salary. Under the flexible hours program, you may select a billable hour goal in the range of 1400 to 2000 hours. Associates at our firm primarily doing patent or trademark prosecution tend to select hour goals less than 2000 hours, while attorneys primarily doing litigation and/or inter partes work are more likely to select hour goals of 2000 hours.

How will you make an impact?

• Conduct legal research, draft legal documents, and prepare arguments to present in court.
• Collaborate with senior attorneys to develop case strategies and arguments.
• Assist in the preparation and management of complex intellectual property litigation cases from inception to resolution.
• Work closely with the litigation group and experts from the prosecution practice groups to build strong cases and provide excellent representation for our clients.

What will you bring to the role?

• JD and actively licensed as an attorney in a U.S. jurisdiction. Must be eligible to waive into the D.C. Bar or be willing and eligible to sit for the D.C. bar exam.
• 1-4 years practicing patent and/or IP litigation at another law firm.
• Hybrid work model preferred: We prefer that new hires maintain a regular in-office presence (flexible on number of times per week), but will consider remote work arrangements on a case-by-case basis.
• A foundation in IP and patent law.
• Stellar academic credentials.
• Previous clerkship experience especially desired We offer bonuses for candidates who join us directly from federal clerkships.
• USPTO registration number desirable, but not required.

To Apply: In the application process on the following pages, please upload your (1) resume, (2) a writing sample, (3) all academic transcripts (unofficial accepted for all degrees) and cover letter (optional, but helpful to provide additional context on your expertise and interest in our firm). Due to the exciting level of interest in our firm, we are unable to individually contact all candidates to collect materials to complete applications. If you are unsure if your materials successfully uploaded, please email all your materials to   

Sterne Kessler is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.