Name: Selina Badiani Firm: Bristows Location: London
University: University of Oxford Undergraduate degree: Chemistry
you get a feel for what each law firm does. It is as much about you choosing a firm that is right for you as impressing the firm enough to offer you a training contract. Also, apply early and make the most of the opportunity to gain sponsorship – it is really worth trying to secure a training contract before you do your law conversion, LPC or SQE.”
enjoy about patent law is that really trying to understand the science is a key part of it. Having a science background helps, but there are a range of backgrounds in the patent litigation department so it is definitely not essential.” International disputes and arbitration are another side or the patent litigation team’s practice. On the potential impact of Brexit, Selina says: “The Unified Patent Court is one issue as the UK will not be seeking membership as part of any exit agreement. But I think most patent work will be unaffected by Brexit because the European Patent Convention – the overarching legislation governing European patent law – is independent of the EU and hence the UK will remain a signatory after Brexit.” One of the things I enjoy about patent law is that really trying to understand the science is a key part of it Intellectual challenge Selina emphasises the intellectually demanding and technical nature of patents. Expertise in reams of black-letter law is required, so all NQs who qualify into intellectual property practices at Bristows study for an intellectual property diploma at the University of Oxford during their first year post qualifying. “It was difficult!” she laughs. “It was crammed into an eight-hour exam due to covid-19, but it has really helped in terms of my knowledge of the law.” If IP is what you find inspiring, Selina has the following advice: “Check firms’ social media to see what events they have coming up. Vacation schemes are a great way to gain experience, but there are other valuable opportunities too such as talks, webinars and networking sessions, all of which can help
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