Practice Assistant

THE FIRM

As a leading international law firm, we are dedicated to excellence through impactful communication, collaboration, and community involvement. Our company culture has earned us the designation as one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" for 27 consecutive years. This honor, along with many others, highlights our commitment to innovation and professional development. At Alston & Bird LLP, our foundation is made of trust, reliability, and compassion.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Practice Assistant – Patent Prosecution serves as a key member of the patent team, supporting critical aspects of the patent prosecution process. Responsibilities include preparing and filing Information Disclosure Statements (IDS), coordinating Notice of Allowance (NOA) workflows, assisting with patent proofing, and driving operational initiatives that enhance efficiency and accuracy. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to delivering outstanding client service while ensuring all deadlines and filing requirements are met.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Patent Prosecution Support

• Prepare, review, and file Information Disclosure Statements (IDS), including ongoing updates and citation management
• Manage Notice of Allowance (NOA) workflows, including client reporting, checklist completion, and audit resolution 
• Support patent proofing processes to ensure accuracy and completeness of filings prior to submission

Docket & Matter Management

• Monitor docket deadlines and proactively manage workflow to ensure timely completion of tasks
• Track application status using USPTO systems and internal docketing tools
• Maintain organized and accurate electronic files in accordance with firm procedures

Client Service & Reporting

• Prepare and send client correspondence related to filings, NOAs, and portfolio updates
• Apply client-specific instructions and reporting requirements across matters
• Collaborate with attorneys, agents, and team members to ensure consistent, high‑quality service delivery

Special Projects & Operational Support

• Support special projects, including data audits, intake/transfer support, and process improvement initiatives
• Assist with portfolio organization and file management projects
• Contribute to development and refinement of templates, workflows, and operational best practices

SKILLS NEEDED TO BE SUCCESSFUL

• Strong working knowledge of U.S. patent prosecution
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in a high‑volume environment
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage competing deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively within a team environment
• Proficiency with patent docketing systems and USPTO tools (e.g., Patricia and Blackbox)
• Demonstrated ability to identify inefficiencies and contribute to process improvements

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• 3+ years of patent prosecution experience in a law firm or corporate legal department
• Demonstrated experience preparing and filing Information Disclosure Statements
• Experience with electronic filing systems and document management platforms required

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Alston & Bird LLP is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees and prohibit discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

This commitment applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, training, promotion, transfer, discipline, and termination.

Alston & Bird also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities and to individuals who require an accommodation based on religion, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, as required by applicable law. Applicants who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process may contact donavan.mclean@alston.com.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING

Employment may be contingent upon the successful completion of applicable pre-employment screening, which may include professional references and a background screening, consistent with applicable law.

SEARCH FIRMS AND EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES

Alston & Bird does not accept unsolicited resumes or candidate referrals from recruiters, search firms, or employment agencies. Any resume or candidate information submitted without a prior written agreement with Alston & Bird will be considered unsolicited, and no fee will be paid if the candidate is hired.