Practice Assistant

USA Alston & Bird; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Alston & Bird LLP in Charlotte, NC is seeking a Practice Assistant – Patent Prosecution to support our patent team in a fast-paced environment. You will prepare and file IDS, manage NOA workflows, assist with patent proofing, and coordinate docketing and client communications to ensure timely, accurate filings.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years of patent prosecution experience, strong attention to detail, and excellent organizational and communication skills.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Prepare, review, and file IDS and manage citation updates.
• Manage Notice of Allowance (NOA) workflows and client reporting.
• Support patent proofing for accuracy and completeness of filings.
• Docket & matter management to meet deadlines and maintain organized files.
• Prepare client correspondence and portfolio updates; collaborate with attorneys and agents.
• Assist with special projects, data audits, and process improvements.

Skills

Patent Prosecution

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Time management

Written communication

Verbal communication

Team collaboration

US Patent Prosecution Tools

Tools

Patricia

Blackbox

Job description

THE FIRMAs a leading international law firm, we are dedicated to excellence through impactful communication, collaboration, and community involvement. Our company culture has earned us 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 DESCRIPTIONThe 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 DUTIESPatent Prosecution SupportPrepare, review, and file Information Disclosure Statements (IDS), including ongoing updates and citation managementManage Notice of Allowance (NOA) workflows, including client reporting, checklist completion, and audit resolutionSupport patent proofing processes to ensure accuracy and completeness of filings prior to submissionDocket & Matter ManagementMonitor docket deadlines and proactively manage workflow to ensure timely completion of tasksTrack application status using USPTO systems and internal docketing toolsMaintain organized and accurate electronic files in accordance with firm proceduresClient Service & ReportingPrepare and send client correspondence related to filings, NOAs, and portfolio updatesApply client-specific instructions and reporting requirements across mattersCollaborate with attorneys, agents, and team members to ensure consistent, high‑quality service deliverySpecial Projects & Operational SupportSupport special projects, including data audits, intake/transfer support, and process improvement initiativesAssist with portfolio organization and file management projectsContribute to development and refinement of templates, workflows, and operational best practicesSKILLS NEEDED TO BE SUCCESSFULStrong working knowledge of U.S. patent prosecutionExceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in a high‑volume environmentStrong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage competing deadlinesExcellent written and verbal communication skillsAbility to work independently while also collaborating effectively within a team environmentProficiency with patent docketing systems and USPTO tools (e.g., Patricia and Blackbox)Demonstrated ability to identify inefficiencies and contribute to process improvementsEDUCATION & EXPERIENCE3+ years of patent prosecution experience in a law firm or corporate legal departmentDemonstrated experience preparing and filing Information Disclosure StatementsExperience with electronic filing systems and document management platforms requiredEQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERAlston & Bird LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer does not discriminate on the bases of any status protected under federal, state, or local law. Applicants will be considered regardless of their sex, race, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition (associated with cancer, a history of cancer, or genetic characteristics), HIV/AIDS status, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, military and veteran status, or other protected category under the law on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, national origin, veteran status or disability in relation to our recruiting, hiring, and promoting practices.The statements contained in this position description are not necessarily all-inclusive, additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned, and requirements may vary from time to time.Professional business references and a background screening will be required for all final applicants selected for a position.If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability you may contact [e-mail] .Alston & Bird is not currently accepting resumes from agencies for this position. If you are a recruiter, search firm, or employment agency, you will not be compensated in any way for your referral of a candidate even if Alston & Bird hires the candidate.