Intellectual Property Paralegal

Tired of long hours and high stress? 

If you’re an experienced IP paralegal who wants to keep doing top-tier work—but in a collaborative, balanced, and genuinely supportive environment—Hylton-Rodic Law wants to meet you. 

We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running: a seasoned IP professional with hands-on experience in U.S. and foreign patent prosecution, docketing, filings, and client coordination. This is an opportunity to work with smart, respectful colleagues and enjoy the flexibility, growth, and quality of life that larger firms rarely provide. 

About Us 

Hylton-Rodic Law PLLC is a boutique intellectual property firm based in Washington, DC. We focus on patent protection, global filing strategy, and portfolio management across chemical, life sciences, biotech, and pharmaceutical sectors. 

We’re a small, growing practice that values excellence, integrity, and balance. Our clients range from innovative startups to international corporations, and our work blends scientific precision with strategic legal insight. 

At HRL, you’ll be part of a close-knit team that prizes mentorship, wellness, and collaboration—without sacrificing high-caliber IP work. 

What You’ll Do 

• Manage all aspects of U.S. and foreign patent prosecution with minimal supervision 
• File PCT applications, national phase entries, and U.S. patent filings 
• Prepare and e-file office action responses, IDSs, petitions, issue fees, and other prosecution documents 
• Coordinate with clients, inventors, and overseas counsel on filing instructions and formalities (assignments, declarations, powers of attorney) 
• Communicate directly with foreign associates, clients, and the USPTO 
• Track deadlines, maintain accurate docket entries, and liaise with attorneys and technical specialists to ensure timely responses 
• Prepare client reporting correspondence and reminders for upcoming actions and due dates 
• Review filings for accuracy and completeness (inventor, assignee, and priority data) 
• Assist with CRLs, fixed-fee tracking, and billing administration 
• Maintain electronic files and uphold confidentiality standards at all times 
• Proactively identify process improvements and help maintain firm best practices 

What We’re Looking For 

• 3–5 years of experience in patent prosecution (U.S. and/or foreign) 
• Solid understanding of USPTO rules, PCT processes, IDSs, CRLs, and docketing systems 
• Experience communicating with clients, inventors, and foreign associates 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and comfort with IP management software 
• Professionalism, discretion, and a collaborative approach 
• Paralegal certificate or college degree preferred 
• Experience with trademarks or design patents a plus 

Core Values 

• Creative Solutions: We find smarter ways to solve complex problems. 
• Strategic Insight: We anticipate needs, not just react to deadlines. 
• Collaboration: We share knowledge and support each other’s success. 
• Integrity: We uphold excellence in every task, large or small. 
• Balance: We believe high performance and wellness can coexist. 

Why Hylton-Rodic Law 

• Flexibility and Balance: Manageable hours and an environment that respects your time and life outside of work. 
• High-Quality Work: Engage with complex patent portfolios and global filings without BigLaw burnout. 
• Professional Growth: Work directly with partners and attorneys who invest in your development. 
• Positive Culture: A supportive team that values precision, humor, and professionalism. 
• Great Location: Our office is a short walk from the Tenleytown Metro station. 

Compensation & Benefits 

• Base Salary: $70,000 – $95,000 (depending on experience) 
• Overtime Eligible: This is a non-exempt position 
• Comprehensive Benefits: 
• Health, dental, and vision insurance subsidy 
• Paid Time Off (PTO) 
• 6.5-day paid holiday break (Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day) 
• 401(k) with matching 
• Life insurance and disability coverage 
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 
• Mental health days 
• Sunshine Fridays 
• Commuter benefits 

How to Apply 

Submit the following materials: 

• Resume 
• Cover letter describing your experience and why you’re interested in Hylton-Rodic Law 

Cover Letter Prompt 

In your cover letter, please tell us: 

1. Why you chose IP law and what motivates you in this work. 
2. What type of environment allows you to do your best work. 
3. What about Hylton-Rodic Law’s culture and approach resonates with you. 
4. A recent example of how you solved a complex or time-sensitive challenge. 
5. How you maintain balance outside of the office. 

Location: Washington, DC (in-person, near Tenleytown Metro)
Salary: Starting at $65,000, with higher compensation available for experienced candidates (overtime eligible)

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. 

No recruiters. No phone calls. Just good humans who care about great IP work.