Patent Attorney Day in the Life: What Patent Lawyers REALLY Do!

In this episode, Laura Schneider discusses what it's like being a patent lawyer and the steps involved in securing patent rights. Learn about the intersection of law and business, and how product development plays a role. If you're curious about a career in intellectual property, this episode is for you!

From drafting complex patent applications to advising inventors, startups, and global corporations, patent attorneys work at the fascinating intersection of law, technology, and innovation. Our guest, Laura Schneider, shares her personal journey into patent law, explains the challenges of the USPTO process, and reveals what it takes to protect ideas on both a national and international level.

You’ll learn:

• How a technical background opens doors in patent law

• The step-by-step patent application process

• What it’s like to handle unusual and cutting-edge inventions

• The realities of tight deadlines, paperwork, and client demands

• How patents shape innovation and business strategy

Whether you’re an aspiring lawyer, a tech enthusiast, or an inventor looking to protect your work, this conversation delivers insider knowledge and real-world advice.

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Timestamp:
0:00 - Intro
0:39 - Differences between patent agents and patent attorneys
1:40 - Copyright and IP Attorneys
4:10 - Trade Secrets, Trademarks, Copyright
5:42 - Typical day as a patent attorney
7:24 - The "right" time to get a patent
9:26 - Changing careers and becoming a patent attorney
11:44 - Getting started as a patent attorney.
12:34 - Work life balance as a patent attorney.
13:48 - Education for patent agents and patent attorneys
15:01 - How saturated is the patent attorney field?
16:39 - What to know about patent attorneys practicing in different states.
18:02 - Do I REALLY need a patent agent or patent attorney?
19:49 - The role of AI for a patent attorney
20:45 - Researching for patents
21:57 - Passed the bar for a patent attorney, now what?
22:50 - How often are tests offered?
24:30 - Talent has the floor
24:48 - Outro

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Guest Information:

Laura Schneider

• Laura Schneider's Website, Rogue Law
• US Patent and Trademark Office
• National Association of Patent Practitioners

Also Mentioned Directly or Indirectly in This Episode:

• Becoming an Inventor, From Idea to Success
• What Does a Prosecutor REALLY Do?
• Life as a Trial /Divorce Attorney with Russell Little
• Become a Registered Patent Agent

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