Associate I/II - Cape TownFull job descriptionDuties and responsibilitiesPreparing and drafting of correspondence to clients and colleaguesCoordinating trade marks clearance projects, conducting searches and international screening searchesPreparing and filing trade mark applications, including electronic filings with follow through to registration and post-registration, maintenance and renewalsCoordinating with foreign counsel on international clearance matters, filings, maintenance and renewal mattersProviding opinions and quotes on the registrability of trade marks in various territoriesEffect portfolio transfers and manage large client portfoliosPrepare and file Powers of Attorney and letters of instructionResearching law and drafting opinionsDealing with a variety of IP related litigation matters, including matters relating to trade mark infringement, cancellation and opposition, name objections and domain name disputesDealing with enquiries and advising clients in relation to copyright queries and dealing with litigation relating to copyright disputesDealing with regulatory queries relating to advertising and labelling Skills and knowledgeComputer literate in Microsoft WordExcellent language skills (good command of English, both written and verbal)Must understand the debiting proceduresA meticulous, responsible person with a sense of urgency, who is able to prioritise dutiesAttention to detail is essentialA conscientious, loyal and dedicated person, with the ability to think laterallySomeone with a professional attitudeAbility to give clear instructions to a secretaryPrepared to work long hours where necessaryAbility to work independently and under supervisionAbility to handle the pressure of having to cope with large workloadKnowledge of relevant Acts – e.g. Trade Marks Act, would be an advantage.Willingness to learn.Qualification/sAn admitted attorney with at least 2 years PQEMust have experience in a private legal practiceTrade Marks experience (litigation and prosecution)LLB degree is a requirementPost-graduate degrees such as LLM will be an added advantageMust have excellent academic credentialsExperience in litigation (High Court) is essentialQualified Trade Mark Practitioner or busy with SAIIPL examsExperience working in an IP firm (Intellectual Property) will be highly advantageous
