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[jc]

Hi,

I have a BS in Comp. Sci. and would like to get into patent/ip law. I've noticed from this board that it seems to be a requirement for patent agents/attorneys who work in the bio/chem area to have a PhD in that area. Is this also true for those working in the software patent area?  I've heard that it is not but would like some more opinions.

Thanks,
John

[jc]

Just to clarify something...I meant is it a requirement for them to have a PhD in Computer Science or a related field, not bio or chem.

Thanks.

[niczon]

That assumption couldn't be farther from the truth.

[DavidStein]

JC:

I'm in a very similar situation. I graduated in 2001 (terrible timing) with a bachelor's in biology, and hence ended up taking a position in patent portfolio management instead of starting in prosecution. Now I'm one week away from finishing a masters in CS, and hoping to move into software patent prosecution.

My indications are that your bachelor's degree should be sufficient. Most of the prosecutors working on software patents are actually EEs, apparently - I base this conclusion not only on anecdotal evidence, but the fact that most software patents I've seen are written like circuits! Entering this field with a modern perspective on softwrae may give you and me an edge - both in entering this field and in drafting well-written software patents.

Best of luck.

Sincerely,

David Stein, Esq.

[erle cohen]

Our firm is actively looking for patent agents and attorneys with a BS or MS in Computer Science.  PhD is not required.  Email me if your interested.