Senior IP Litigator – Design & Patent Focus

the Opportunity; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 250,000 - 500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Health Savings Account

Life and disability insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Paid vacation, sick time and holidays

Parental leave and adoption assistance

Wellness and pre-tax benefits

Job summary

Miller Johnson in Chicago seeks an experienced Intellectual Property Litigation Member to lead sophisticated IP disputes, including design patent matters, and to advise clients while growing the practice. The role emphasizes strategic judgment, mentorship, and cross-team collaboration.

The successful candidate will manage major litigation phases, work with technical experts, and foster client relationships to expand the firm's IP footprint.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Admission to the Illinois State Bar or eligibility to waive into Illinois.
• Significant experience handling complex intellectual property litigation, including meaningful design patent litigation experience.
• A technical or STEM background is preferred, particularly in computer science, mechanical, electrical, aerospace, or related field.
• Experience with trademark, trade secret, or other IP disputes is a plus.
• Existing book of business or portable client relationships is preferred.
• Ability and willingness to contribute to business development and growth of the practice.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex matters and manage litigation phases.

Responsibilities

• Lead sophisticated IP litigation matters with a focus on patent disputes and design patent litigation.
• Evaluate case strengths and advise clients on strategy and potential outcomes.
• Lead depositions, hearings, mediations, discovery strategy, and motion practice.
• Develop substantive legal and technical arguments and oversee briefs and pleadings.
• Collaborate with technical experts to develop case theories and damages positions.
• Manage client relationships and communication on strategy, budgets, and deadlines.
• Lead case teams, mentor associates, and coordinate across practice groups.
• Identify opportunities to expand client relationships and contribute to growth.
• Travel periodically for depositions, hearings, and client meetings.

Skills

Litigation leadership

Client relations

Strategic thinking

Mentoring

Education

Juris Doctor

Job description

Miller Johnson in Chicago seeks an experienced Intellectual Property Litigation Member to lead sophisticated IP disputes, including design patent matters, and to advise clients while growing the practice. The role emphasizes strategic judgment, mentorship, and cross-team collaboration.

The successful candidate will manage major litigation phases, work with technical experts, and foster client relationships to expand the firm's IP footprint.