Patent law is a complex and evolving field where success hinges on a practitioner's ability to adapt and grow. In "Deliberately Develop Your Practice Style", author Ryan De Vries reflects on lessons learned from mentors and the critical aspects of developing a personal approach to the practice of patent law. From mastering attention to detail and understanding a client’s portfolio to avoiding superficial analysis of technology, the article highlights practical strategies for creating a practice style that balances precision, deep technical understanding, and long-term value for clients.

As a junior IP litigator, I find myself having a lot of questions about what it means to be an effective advocate in these “modern” times. I am among the first cohort of students to cut my teeth as a 2L summer and articling student wholly during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, my legal experience has been one of constant adjustments. I’ve witnessed our profession’s incredible ability to adapt and react to unprecedented times.

Today's emerging IP practitioners have a wide range of career options. While IP work was traditionally handled exclusively by law firms, more and more businesses are now seeking IP specialists to complement their in-house legal teams. As organizations strive to optimize their internal legal resources, IP lawyers and agents alike can bring valuable expertise to the table. This article aims to provides helpful tips for IP professionals who are looking to succeed in-house.

For a young practitioner, it can be a challenge to build a reputation, get your name out, and become known in your field. Establishing credibility is difficult, since new lawyers generally cannot rely on a long track-record of practical experience or recognized credentials that are available to seasoned veterans. Yet gaining that experience and reputation is a key part of a rewarding and successful career in law. Fortunately, there are clear, easy, and high-value steps a young practitioner can take to get started.

In recent years, environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) considerations have become increasingly important for Canadian companies and innovators. From consumer demand for increased sustainability, transparency, and social accountability, to investors’ focus on ESG in investment decision-making processes; ESG criteria are now a significant marker for company success. As such, robust ESG practices are imperative for companies in order to manage operational, regulatory, fiduciary, reputational, and innovative risks.

Many facets of our industry have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, both from a business perspective as well as the more important personal perspective. We thought it would be interesting to take a deeper look into the current situation facing younger IP practitioners, particularly in light of the pandemic. To that end, we e-interviewed Richard Mar, Chair of the Young Practitioners Committee, to learn more about the work of the committee and the reality for our young practitioners.

Until recently for young intellectual property professionals, learning their craft was much like walking down a well-worn path. Common strategies for dealing with obstacles encountered included asking mentors and peers, referring to industry guidelines or commentary, and following precedents and past practices that have proven successful.

By now you have probably encountered a plethora of articles that discuss how to work remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Experimenting with different aspects of your routine is one way to determine what does and doesn’t work for you.

For young lawyers, it can be difficult to build a career that is – or will become – meaningful to you. Developing relationships with mentors can be a valuable way to stay on a career path that is enjoyable and provides continued growth opportunities. IPIC's Young Practitioners Committee has compiled some tips on how to make the most of your mentorship relationships.

Attending events and conferences on your own as a junior practitioner can feel daunting. Here are a few pointers that can help you prepare before you attend.

Richard Mar is an associate at DLA Piper and Chair of the IPIC Young Practitioner’s Committee. On the cusp of his 10th year of practice and his final term in the Committee, Richard discusses his practice and reflects on what he’s learned in this first stage of his career in IP law.

As a legal business development and marketing professional in a past life, I picked up a few tips that most junior practitioners may not know or may not have the confidence to implement early in their careers. I am using these tips in my own practice and hope that they will help other young practitioners to build their networks and their businesses.