I have a few questions and concerns about going into Patent and IP law. Firstly, I have heard from many sources that I might as well not even bother with patents or IP unless I have a hard science or engineering degree. Secondly, I've also read/heard that if I did go into the field anyway that I wouldn't be able to sit on the patent bar without the aforementioned degrees. So would my only option be litigation? (I've heard some firms have people with no-science backgrounds who litigate successfully for them).


Things to consider: 1)I have a strong background in technology. I've worked in many aspects of the computer industry i.e., sales, pc-repair, pc-production, hardware and software phone support...

2) I currently work in IT.

3) My passions are computers and technology. I have been at it since 7 years of age.

So, my dilemma was this. I originally started in computer science and dropped it because of the heavy math requirement (because I hate math). I then decided to pursue my second passion which is politics. So my degree is in Political Science and History ( I know, its redundant like many other law school applicants).

So I am unsure as to whether it would be worth it for me. I know IP is broad and some schools such as Arizona State have programs in what they call "Technology Law" This sounds VERY interesting to me. I would just like to try to marry my two passions into one career path. I am just not sure if patents would prove to be too difficult. I mean I understand technical ideas and can read blueprints. The only problem is I don't have the credentials in the form of a degree to prove this. I am certain I want to be at attorney just uncertain which kind of law I'd like to concentrate on. If anyone has any insight please feel free to post.

Thanks

An engineering or technology degree will definately help you with an IP law career, but it is not necessary. Consider getting an JD and then continuing with an LL.M in technology law. Standford, Duke, Depaul, UCLA all have great LL.M programs for IP scholars.

I'd say that a JD + your experience (since age 7) in IT is a great start. I have attorney friends that practice products liability, insurance defense and they didnt come from engineering back grounds. Thats why the mid to large law firms hire non-attorney specialists to aid the attorney.

If i were you i would go for the JD and take IP classes and follow-up the JD with an LL.M. I think law firms, especially the large ones are more interested in law school GPA than your under grad major.

Where are you applying to LS? Did you take the LSAT yet?

I'm gonna take the Oct LSAT. I decided to go back to school after selling my business. I have a degree in electrical engineering.

I'n in the same boat as fscafaria. I'm getting my degree in english and speech therapy, but i have a lot of experience with computer networks (my job through college which pays the bills) and I would like to go to law school rather than get a Ph.D in speech.

If you look at the law school ciriculum, most of the classes are general and required by the schools. They all say that their intent is to get you ready for the bar exam. So, i dont think you can fit in many IP classes in the JD program and that an LL.M is required.

Question: do you need to have a IP undergrad in order to get into an LL.M or can anyone apply? This question goes in line with fscarfaria question as to whether you need an IP degree to sit for the patent bar.

Whether you should practice IP or not really is a personal choice. But, understand that the feild you speak of is not just computer related, you don't know what kind of firm you will end up at after graduation. You have to be ready to deal with different copyright issues, and think of that nature as well, and some of it, if not alot may not interest you. You may want to consider an internship.