I chose to study Mechanical Engineering at university because I loved, and still do love, maths and science. However, after graduating I decided that engineering was not the career for me, so I started to look for alternative careers which would still enable me to use everything I had learnt. A recruitment consultant suggested becoming a patent attorney, so after some further research I began applying for jobs in this area. I was fortunate enough to secure a role within a private practice and began training.

Unlike solicitors, patent attorneys require a technical degree and then study the law whilst working. There are quite a few exams that need to be passed in order to qualify as a UK and European Patent Attorney; however, the rewards far outweigh the stress of exams. After qualifying I moved to a US law firm which provided me with experience of IP litigation, in addition to drafting and prosecuting patent applications. I then moved back into private practice after having my children.

Several years ago, I decided to expand my expertise and qualified as a UK trade mark attorney so that I am now able to provide a full breadth of IP advice to my clients. Trade marks are quite different from patents, being much faster-paced and involving more negotiation and agreements. The thing I really love about working in patents and trade marks is that I’m learning every day, not only about different and varied technologies (that may, or may not, be the next big thing) but also about little quirks of law. No two days are the same.

Patent Attorney / Trade Mark Attorney / Mathisen & Macara

Last Updated: October 30, 2024