Minghui, Senior Associate at Marks & Clerk, shares their experience since joining the firm.
What first attracted you to Marks & Clerk?
I applied to Marks and Clerk whilst working overseas because the firm has a strong international reputation. During the interview process, I was impressed by the professionalism of the HR team and fee earners, and everyone I met was friendly and approachable.
What does a typical working week look like?
There is no such thing as a typical week as there are always new and interesting projects to work on. The bulk of my work is drafting and filing new patent applications and dealing with objections raised by the patent offices. This often requires discussions with inventors at the clients’ side. I absolutely enjoy talking with the clients to understand the technical and commercial value of the invention. With such understanding, I would be able to maximise the value of the patents for the clients. I also advise clients on registered designs, which are a different form of IP protections than patents. There have also been plenty of opportunities for larger-scale projects (e.g., EPO oppositions and appeals, and freedom to operate reports).
Give us an idea of the range of clients you work with and the variety of technologies?
The clients I work with include world-famous multinationals, local and overseas SMEs, and local and overseas start-ups. A lot of my work originates from local inventors, but I also receive work from foreign attorneys whose clients are looking to gain patent protection in the UK or Europe. The technologies range from semiconductor devices, electronic circuits, computer hardware and software, telecommunications, general electronic systems and printing techniques - all of which suit my background and knowledge.
Tell us about your career highlight to date.
I have been working with a UK-based client for over a year and drafted a number of new patent applications for them. The client was happy with my work, and was impressed by my level of understanding in the field of their technologies. Always a pleasure to hear that my hard work has been appreciated by the client.
What opportunities are there for development at Marks & Clerk?
When I was a trainee, I received thorough on-the-job training every day from highly skilled and experienced attorneys. In addition, Marks & Clerk provides a Training Academy to guide trainees through the qualifying examinations.
After I became dual-qualified, I have also contributed to the Training Academy by giving webinars and tutorials to trainees. Although I have been working largely independently now, there are always more experienced attorneys who are willing to help whenever I need advice or a second opinion.
At Marks & Clerk, I feel both challenged and well supported – part of a real community.
Interested in learning more about Marks & Clerk's opportunities? Check out their profile here.