Graduate Solicitor - Litigation

Are you a recent law graduate with a strong interest in litigation and intellectual property? We have a newly created full-time role for a talented, ambitious solicitor looking to take their first step into the world of IP litigation.

Working under the guidance of experienced litigators, our graduate solicitor will be expected to take increasing responsibility as they progress, and to develop skills in marketing and business development.

This role is involved in client work from early on, working across different levels of the team and inter-office, to achieve the best outcomes for our clients. 

You will join a high performing team working with local and international clients across a wide range of industries and sectors, to navigate the best path to enforce their IP rights or assist them in dealing with any challenge by third parties involving IP rights.  Our clients range from industry leaders to emerging innovators.

Key Responsibilities

Technical

• Preparing standard letters for reporting to clients, drafting responses to the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) and IP Australia (IPAU).

• Preparing pleadings documents for IPONZ and IPAU.

• Assisting with preparation and collation of evidence.

• Arranging for execution of legal documents.

• Legal research and writing.

• Drafting standard screening/estimate/prepayment emails for new inquiries.

• Checking IP registers for relevant rights.

• Watching search services.

• Internet research to identify potential infringers and use searching.

• Drafting basic enforcement letters.

• Preparing takedowns requests.

• Managing Customs Notice portfolios.

• Liaising with NZ Customs, Australian Border Force and other agencies.

Financial

• Meeting financial targets – day book, WIP, billable and non-billable hours.

• Developing a commercial understanding of the mechanics of the firm.

Leadership

• Live the AJ Park Values.

• Develop an awareness of leadership qualities.

• Form good working relationships within the team and firm.

• Participate in initiatives within the team and across the firm. 

Marketing & Business Development

• Develop an awareness of clients’ business interests and the macroeconomy.

• Actively participate in building the AJ Park profile and own professional profile, through LinkedIn and other platforms.

Professional Standards

• Adhere to the AJ Park Quality Management Procedures.

• Comply with the conduct client care standards of the legal profession.

• Comply with AJ Park Health and Safety practices and procedures.

• A strong commitment to internal and external relationships.

• Maintain high quality personal standards and self-management.

Professional development

• Ensure appropriate level of CPD per NZLS requirements.

• Ensure regular attendance at in-house and off-site seminars.

• Keep up-to-date with legal developments in the IP field.

• Member of relevant professional organisations as appropriate.

What’s in it for you?

Be part of a dynamic and inclusive team, where you will gain excellent experience and structured career development. We are not your typical law firm – we dress for our day, have a flat structure and collegial culture, where bringing your whole self to work is at the heart of who we are. We offer competitive remuneration along with benefits as follows:

• Medical insurance

• Paid parental leave of up to 18 weeks plus 3 weeks' partner leave

• Leave purchase scheme (up to 2 weeks)

• Formal professional development programs

• Structured wellness program, including a paid Wellness Benefit

• Flexible working

• Social club

• Beautiful new offices in the heart of the CBD

You will have the opportunity to work across different levels in the organisation and make an impact with the work you will be doing. You will have exposure to some fascinating subject matter created by some brilliant and creative minds in different industries.

Find out more about us here, or to apply, please send your CV, with cover letter and academic transcript attached, to careers@ajpark.com.

Please note that this opportunity is only open to residents of New Zealand.