More about Tony
The course
I decided to undertake a practitioner course at Nottingham Law School because several of my colleagues had completed the course the year before and found it to be very enjoyable. At the same time, my firm had created an IP litigation department, which they had encouraged patent attorneys in the firm to become involved with.
A few key features attracted me to the course. Firstly, the modular arrangement of the course allowed it to fit in well with work commitments. I also liked the team-based approach to tasks, which created a good opportunity to meet people from other firms. I knew the location of Nottingham Law School well (it is practically next door to our offices!).
It was important that the course was accredited by IPReg, and also that successful completion would be valued by my employer. I gained many skills from the course. I feel that I gained an improved understanding of UK court procedure and tactics that may be employed in such proceedings. Also, some useful skills in written and oral advocacy.
The teaching style at NTU was friendly and informal but very professional throughout. The tutors were all very approachable and had a deep knowledge of their area.
Yes, I would definitely recommend this course to people. I gained some very useful new skills and now feel that I would be able to contribute helpfully to the preparation and management of actions before the UK courts. I also had a very enjoyable time and made lots of new friends.
Current job role
I joined the patent profession in 2007, having previously worked as a post-doctoral researcher at the University of Nottingham. I am currently a UK (Chartered) and European patent attorney at Potter Clarkson LLP. I assist clients in the pharmaceutical area with the drafting and prosecution of patent applications, the preparation and defence of opposition proceedings at the EPO, and by providing commercial advice, such as freedom-to-operate opinions.
After completing the course, I have now been added to our IP litigation team, which increases the range of expertise available in this area and has benefitted the business.