Taking the Patent Bar Forum

[dallinpackard]

I am finishing my EE undergrad mid-August and then will go straight to law school (with the possibility of a few weeks of break, depending on where I end up going). My question is: is it worth it to take the patent bar as a 1L? I can more than likely be done studying for it before I even enter law school, but my transcript/diploma wouldn't come in until a month or so after I enter law school.

[pricon]

By "as a 1L" you are talking during the time between August and May of your first year?

[wolfromkev]

Take it as early as possible. I've heard that employers like it when you've been a member of the bar association for a longer period of time.

[dallinpackard]

By "as a 1L" you are talking during the time between August and May of your first year?

yes. Closer to August than to May.

[elendinel]

I'd sign up now with an eye to take it end of your first semester, or something (give yourself a week to refresh; you have to pick a date 3 months out after you're approved to take it). Employers do like early reg numbers, though I don't know that it would actually substantially affect your application one way or another unless (1) you end up actually using your reg no. in a clinic or something during law school (which would be seen as a cool add to your experience) or (2) you don't take any classes that show that you have an interest in patent law, in which case getting a reg no. early can show your consistent commitment to the field. The latter of which is probably particularly helpful for a 1L SA.

[redtalun]

OP hasn't even said if he's interested in patent pros, patent lit, general lit, or basketweaving law... why is everyone full steam on the take-the-patent-bar train?

If you're interested in patent pros, definitely take the patent bar, although think of it more as a small plus to your resume in 'tie-break' situations for two otherwise similarly qualified applicants. A reg # won't fix bad 1L grades or bad interviewing.

For patent lit, I wouldn't spend any time as a 1L studying for the patent bar. That time is better spent on 1L grades and networking.