Intellectual Property Associate Attorney (Trademark & Brand Protection)

Mid-Level Intellectual Property AssociateDirect Counsel is seeking a mid-level Intellectual Property Associate to join a highly regarded Intellectual Property practice in Los Angeles. This is an exceptional opportunity for an attorney looking to build long-term client relationships while advising companies across a diverse range of industries, including entertainment, consumer products, beauty, food and beverage, fashion, media, software, and emerging technologies.ResponsibilitiesTrademark Prosecution & Brand ProtectionConduct trademark clearance searches and availability analysesPrepare and file trademark applications with the USPTODraft responses to Office ActionsManage domestic and international trademark portfoliosCoordinate global trademark prosecution with foreign counselAdvise clients on brand selection, trademark strategy, and portfolio developmentIntellectual Property EnforcementDraft and respond to cease-and-desist lettersHandle trademark, copyright, NIL, and publicity rights disputesManage TTAB proceedings, including oppositions and cancellationsConduct brand enforcement audits and marketplace monitoringDevelop online enforcement and takedown strategiesSupport intellectual property litigation matters alongside litigation teamsCounseling & Strategic AdviceAdvise clients on: trademark matters, copyright issues, trade dress protection, NIL and publicity rights, brand protection strategiesReview advertising, packaging, and promotional materials for trademark and FTC complianceCounsel clients on co-branding, licensing, and brand usage programsCommercial & IP TransactionsDraft and negotiate: trademark license agreements, collaboration agreements, coexistence agreements, manufacturing agreements, distribution agreements, vendor agreements, work-for-hire agreements, creator and independent contractor agreements, endorsement agreementsSupport intellectual property diligence in M&A and investment transactionsAdvise on IP provisions in commercial agreementsQualificationsRequiredJ.D. from an accredited law schoolActive California Bar admission3–5 years of trademark experience at a law firmExperience with: trademark prosecution, trademark enforcement, trademark counseling, brand protection strategiesExperience preparing and filing USPTO trademark applicationsExperience drafting Office Action responsesExperience drafting and negotiating commercial and IP-related agreementsWorking knowledge of domestic and international trademark prosecutionStrong legal writing, analytical, and communication skillsAbility to independently manage multiple client matters and deadlinesStrong academic credentialsPreferredExperience with online marketplace enforcement and takedown programsUDRP and domain name dispute experienceExperience with IP licensing and commercial transactionsM&A intellectual property diligence experienceExperience with SaaS agreements and technology transactionsCopyright registration and counseling experienceIndustry experience involving consumer products, media, beauty, fashion, or food and beverage companiesCompensation & BenefitsSalary range: $250,000 – $280,000Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverageLife, short-term disability, and long-term disability insuranceHealth Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) optionsGenerous paid time off and parental leaveEmployee assistance and wellness programsOn-site fitness and wellness resourcesProfessional development and business development supportMentorship and associate training programsWhy This OpportunityDirect client contact and meaningful responsibility from day oneWork with sophisticated brands and businesses across diverse industriesFormal associate mentoring and professional development programsExposure to both counseling and transactional intellectual property workStrong firm culture emphasizing collaboration, wellness, philanthropy, and professional growthOpportunity to build long-term client relationships and develop a specialized intellectual property practiceDirect Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier law firms and fostering inclusive hiring practices.