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[902]

I graduated from law school in 2002, passed July 2002 bar and have been working in a small firm primarily doing trademark prosecution.  I also recently completed the degree requirements to obtain a MS in Computer Science and plan to sit for the Patent Bar soon.  My major in undergrad was Management Information Systems and I worked in software engineering and applications development for several years prior to attending law school.

I’d like move on to a firm where I can learn patent prosecution (my current firm does not handle patent matters).  I realize it costs money to teach someone to write patent applications and my thought is that I can “earn my keep” so to speak by also working for the firm in the trademark prosecution area while I am learning patents.  Does this sound like a realistic expectation?  What are my chances of finding employment as an entry level patent prosecution attorney under the circumstances and given with the qualifications described?  

I’ve done a significant amount of research on my own but I also realize this is not the usual path of attorneys in the field.  As such, I’d appreciate any constructive thoughts and suggestions.

[Isaac]

I assume you have checked out the applicable educational
requirements for taking the patent bar.  My understanding is
that you would have to qualify via category 'B'.  The pitfall
for a lot of computer science types is having sufficient
physics or chemistry credits.

Other than that, I would guess that you are in a better position
than entry level candidates with no legal experience.

[melwrc]

The number of opportunities depends in large part on your location and how much of a pay cut you are willing to take in the short term.  A small to mid-size IP boutique would probably be more flexible in this regard and allow you to learn patents while working in TM's.  I know that my firm hired at least one career changing atty on an entry-level basis to be patent atty.  His salary climbed at a much higher than normal pace.  

[902]

Thank you for pointing that out.  Yes, I have carefully reviewed the requirements for category B and made sure I supplemented my course work with the requisite number of Chemistry credits.

Thank you both for taking the time to respond.  Your insight is greatly appreciated.