Description:
Who are we?Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox is one of the most highly regarded intellectual property specialty law firms dedicated exclusively to the protection, transfer and enforcement of IP rights for its clients. Based in Washington, D.C., we are a full-service IP firm offering patent litigation, patent preparation and prosecution of design and utility patents, and trademark and brand protection. Our firm culture is what sets us apart in the industry. We recognize that it is the talent and dynamism of each individual that contributes to our shared success. We have cultivated an environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating with just the right touch of fun and exuberance.
The Mechanical & Design Group uses the full complement of IP protection, including utility and design patents, trade dress, trademarks, trade secrets, and copyright, to protect mechanical innovation and evaluate if a new product has freedom to operate in the market.
What does the Summer Program offer?
- The program will be held in-person in our Washington, DC office from May 18 – July 24, 2026. Summer Associates may work-from-home 1-2 days per week. Summer Associates are compensated at a rate of $4,326/week.
- Our summer associates work on matters involving cutting-edge technologies developed by a broad range of innovative individuals and companies. The work involves all phases of patent practice, including preparation, prosecution, licensing, client counseling, and litigation.
- Your summer will include relevant work assignments, midpoint and end-of-summer evaluations, workshops/trainings, and exposure to our team structure, all designed to reflect what life is like for an attorney at Sterne Kessler.
- Our summers enjoy a number of social events which allow Summer Associates to get to know our attorneys on a personal level. Past events have included a firm-wide crab feast, DC sporting events, city and museum tours, and more.
- Currently enrolled in an ABA-accredited law school with an expected graduation date in May 2027.
- Patent bar eligibility with a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Material Science or Physics, or an equivalent discipline; Advanced degrees and/or industry experience preferred.
- Stellar academic credentials.
- Obvious interest in IP and patent law, specifically in patent prosecution.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will be accepted until the positions are filled. We encourage you to apply early. For questions, please contact Heather Molina at hmolina@sternekessler.com or 202-772-8968.
