If you're serious about upskilling, standing out in the legal field, and commanding higher earning potential, learning IP is the way to go.  This is where the International Patent Filing Survival Guide comes in.  This interactive guide simplifying complex cross-border procedures into clear, actionable steps. Perfect for attorneys, paralegals, and anyone new to patent work, this step-by-step resource requires no prior expertise and will help you navigate PCT applications and international filings with confidence.

Why Learn IP?

Learning intellectual property (IP) law is one of the smartest moves you can make as a paralegal or legal professional. IP paralegals are in high demand as companies in technology, biotech, and global brands work to protect their patents and trademarks. This specialty offers higher salaries and better job security than most general paralegal roles. According to Glassdoor, the average IP paralegal salary is about $152,000 per year, while senior positions can exceed $164,000. Indeed reports similar trends, with national averages around $117,000 and top markets like California and New York paying up to $174,000 annually. By mastering IP law, you gain a competitive advantage, access to specialized roles, and the ability to work in a field that continues to grow with innovation. 

Why Start with International Patent Filing?

Mastering international patent filing gives you a critical advantage. Global innovation is booming, and companies need paralegals who understand Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) procedures and foreign filing strategies. By learning these skills first, you become an essential asset for law firms and corporations managing worldwide patent portfolios. International filing knowledge is rare and highly valued, leading to higher salaries, specialized roles, and faster career growth compared to general IP support. If you want to future-proof your career and work with cutting-edge industries, starting with international patent filing is the smartest move you can make.

Who This Guide is For

• Law students

• Firms that want to train their new attorneys in IP

• Paralegals and support staff who want to upskill into IP

• Anyone new to patent work

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Explain the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and its role in global patent protection.

• Navigate the full PCT timeline, including priority filing, international phase, and national phase entry.

• Claim priority correctly to secure international patent rights.

• Identify and manage common risks in international patent filings.

• Prepare and file PCT applications using WIPO’s ePCT platform with confidence.

• Apply your knowledge through a real-world PCT filing simulation.