I started SCINTILLA because I think patent attorney services can be done differently. We provide specialised services to the electronics, software and physical sciences industries.

After being appointed to a Director position I worked more autonomously and had involvement in various management roles, including recruitment and management of trainee and qualified patent attorneys, day-to-day management of the staff working with me, and coordination of internal procedures such as implementation of electronic online filing systems for patent applications.

Following qualification I took on a more autonomous role, for example, now taking responsibility for hearings at the European Patent Office. As well as continuing to develop business locally I also became more involved in efforts to win larger clients, participating in trips and preparing tender documents. Furthermore I was able to consolidate on my core skills, gaining further experience in patent drafting and prosecution, but also acting increasingly for clients in corporate IP matters, such as due diligence, freedom to operate assessments and patent portfolio management. I also honed my skills in preparation of patent infringement and validity opinions and in advising clients regarding searching.

While training I was proactive about taking on responsibility and developed skills of interviewing inventors from an early stage. My caseload had a strong emphasis on direct client work and in particular on drafting patent applications. I attended various EPO hearings as an assistant. I also started to get involved in business development, representing the company at various conferences and events.