Temporary Trademark Paralegal

Wilson Sonsini is the premier legal advisor to technology, life sciences, and other growth enterprises worldwide. We represent companies at every stage of development, from entrepreneurial start-ups to multibillion-dollar global corporations, as well as the venture firms, private equity firms, and investment banks that finance and advise them. The firm has approximately 1,100 attorneys in 17 offices: 13 in the U.S., two in China, and two in Europe. Our broad spectrum of practices and entrepreneurial spirit allow exceptional opportunities for professional achievement and career growth.

As a Temporary Trademark Paralegal at Wilson Sonsini, you’ll support some of the most innovative companies in tech and life sciences, helping protect the brands behind breakthrough technologies. You’ll work on cutting-edge matters in a fast-paced, collaborative environment at a firm known for its deep IP expertise and commitment to clients shaping the future.

This temporary 6-month assignment is available as both a fully remote and hybrid work schedule.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Communicate with attorneys and clients regarding trademark clearance, prosecution, deadlines, renewals, and maintenance matters

• Prepare and send client communications, reports, and trademark status updates (quarterly or upon request)

• Coordinate with clients to collect supporting documents, signed forms, and specimens

• Review marketing materials and websites for acceptable trademark specimens

• Conduct preliminary trademark clearance searches using USPTO, commercial databases (e.g., SAEGIS, TrademarkNow), AI tools, and foreign trademark office resources

• Order and track comprehensive trademark searches from vendors

• Prepare, file and maintain applications and registrations before the USPTO (Sections 8, 9, 15; Statements of Use; Renewals; Extensions; Assignments; POAs)

• Draft and file non-substantive responses to Office Actions for attorney review

• Report USPTO and foreign office notices (e.g., publication, allowance) to clients

• Communicate with foreign counsel regarding searches, filings, prosecution, and maintenance

• Assist in planning and executing global trademark registration strategies

• Coordinate legalization of documents and obtain signatures for foreign trademark filings

• Manage deadlines and docket items for U.S. and foreign applications and registrations, and maintain accurate records in WebTMS

• Prepare and manage trademark watch notices and subscriptions

• Oversee file transfers (intake and outbound), including docket and document reviews

• Assist with preparing and filing TTAB actions (oppositions, cancellations, appeals) and UDRP complaints; gather supporting materials for enforcement proceedings

• File and prosecute U.S. copyright applications; assist with copyright assignment documentation

• Assist clients with U.S. Customs and Border Protection trademark recordation

• Perform related duties as assigned or directed by supervisor

• Maintain compliance with all firm policies and procedures

Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:

• A college degree and/or paralegal certificate is required

• 4+ years of experience as a trademark paralegal is required

• Stellar project management and organizational skills

• Great attention to detail and ability to multitask

• Good judgment, intuition and problem-solving skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Reliable and dependable

• Client-focused mindset

• Professional and composed under pressure and in fast-paced environments

• Ability to learn quickly and work effectively and efficiently with clients, attorneys and staff across offices

• Proficiency in WebTMS and filing with USPTO

• Knowledge of U.S. and international trademark prosecution rules and procedures

• Ability and willingness to work overtime as needed

The primary location for this job posting is in Palo Alto, but other locations may be listed. The actual base pay offered will depend upon a variety of factors, including but not limited to the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, level of education, professional certifications and licenses, and work location. The anticipated pay range for this position is as follows:Palo Alto, San Francisco: $45.48 - $61.54 per hour. Los Angeles, San Diego, and all other locations: $43.21 - $58.46 per hour.

Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).