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Patent Attorney Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Unified Patents is again growing its legal department, and seeks to add an experienced, registered patent attorney. Applicants should have at least 5 years of law firm or other relevant experience ...

Unified Patents is again growing its legal department, and seeks to add an experienced, registered patent attorney. Applicants should have at least 5 years of law firm or other relevant experience ...

Active attorney license in a U.S. jurisdiction. Eligible to waive into the D.C. Bar or willing and eligible to sit for the D.C. Bar Exam. 6+ years of patent and/or intellectual property litigation ...

New

Unified Patents is again growing its legal department, and seeks to add an experienced, registered patent attorney. Applicants should have at least 5 years of law firm or other relevant experience ...

Showing results 21-40

Patent Attorney information

See Reston, VA salary details

$69.8K

$155.8K

$270.5K

How much do patent attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for patent attorney in Reston, VA is $155,754.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,700.00 and $182,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Patent Attorney vs Patent Agent?

AspectPatent AttorneyPatent Agent
CredentialsLaw degree, bar admission, patent law specializationPatent bar exam, technical degree, patent law knowledge
Work EnvironmentLegal firms, corporate legal departments, law courtsPatent offices, law firms, corporate R&D departments
Employer & IndustryLegal industry, patent law firms, corporationsPatent offices, law firms, tech companies

Patent attorneys and patent agents both handle patent applications and intellectual property issues, but patent attorneys are licensed lawyers with law degrees and can represent clients in court. Patent agents are registered with the patent office and focus on patent prosecution. The choice depends on whether legal representation in court is needed or solely patent filing and prosecution services are required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a patent attorney?

To thrive as a Patent Attorney, you need a robust understanding of intellectual property law, a degree in science or engineering, and admission to both a state bar and the patent bar (USPTO). Familiarity with patent databases, legal research platforms like LexisNexis, and document management systems is typically required. Outstanding analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualifications are critical for effectively protecting clients' inventions, navigating complex legal processes, and ensuring successful patent prosecution and litigation.

What is a patent attorney?

As a patent attorney, you work with clients to protect their inventions and intellectual property, ensuring that they have exclusive rights to it for a period. You may be asked to file patents with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) to protect your client’s right to market and manufacture a product. You may also appear in court to settle disputes over patents and protect your client’s rights and profits.

What challenges does a patent attorney face when managing a diverse portfolio of clients?

Patent Attorneys often work with clients from a wide range of industries, each presenting unique technical and legal complexities. Managing a diverse portfolio requires staying up-to-date with rapidly evolving technologies, understanding varied patent laws across jurisdictions, and effectively communicating with inventors and technical teams. Additionally, balancing multiple deadlines and prioritizing filings to protect clients' intellectual property can be demanding. Strong organizational skills and adaptability are crucial to ensure all client needs are met efficiently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Patent Attorney jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Patent Attorney jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Patent Attorney jobs in Reston, VA?

For Patent Attorney jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Patent Attorney jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Patent Attorney jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Patent Attorney jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Patent Attorney job openings:

Infographic showing various Patent Attorney job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 76% In-person, 13% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $155,754 per year, or $74.9 per hour.

Patent Litigation Associate Attorney 5G / Wireless Technology

Direct Counsel

Washington, DC • Hybrid

$260K - $365K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Patent Litigation Associate Attorney – 5G / Wireless Technology
Location: Washington, DC

Direct Counsel is seeking a Patent Litigation Associate Attorney to join a leading Am Law 100 firm in Washington, DC. This is an opportunity to work on high-stakes cases for some of the world’s most innovative technology companies, where you’ll combine your legal skills with technical expertise to tackle complex intellectual property challenges.

What You’ll Do:

  • Represent clients in sophisticated patent litigation matters with a focus on 5G and wireless technology.

  • Collaborate with a team of highly skilled attorneys to develop and execute cutting-edge legal strategies.

  • Conduct detailed legal research and analysis in cases involving advanced technology.

  • Engage directly with clients and colleagues in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.

What We’re Looking For:

  • 3–5 years of patent litigation experience, preferably with exposure to wireless or 5G-related matters.

  • Strong academic credentials and superior writing skills.

  • Background in computer science, electrical engineering, or a closely related technical field.

  • Active bar membership and compliance with CLE requirements.

  • A team-oriented mindset with the ability to thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes matters.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive salary range of $260,000 – $365,000, commensurate with experience (adjusted for flex-time schedules).

  • Hybrid work environment with flexibility.

  • Annual technology allowance.

  • Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

  • Family-friendly culture with wellness initiatives and back-up childcare support.

If you’re passionate about science, engineering, and intellectual property law — and ready to join a top-tier Am Law 100 firm with a focus on sophisticated litigation in the 5G and wireless space — we’d love to hear from you.