What does a Patent Agent or Patent Attorney do?

A patent agent or a patent attorney has the specialized qualifications necessary for representing clients in obtaining patents before national and international Patent Offices and acting in all matters and procedures relating to patent law and practice, such as filing an opposition against a grant of a patent (“patent prosecution”).   A patent agent may also be involved in contributing to the long-term management of a company’s patent portfolio. The patent agent works with developers, the business team, other patent agents and attorneys.  Patent attorneys work either in patent departments of large industrial organisations, in private practise firms of patent attorneys, or in government departments and act at an exciting interface between disciplines of law, language and science.

What skills are required?

A patent attorney should have:

• A scientific or technical background, usually a science or engineering degree from a university or similar institution.


• The ability to acquire, and enjoy exercising, legal skills of drafting, analysis and logical thought, and, particularly the skill to use the English, French or German language aptly and accurately, in written work.


• The ability to communicate effectively, both on paper and in person.


• Good analytical skills.


• Good negotiating skills in dealing with third parties.


• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.