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[quote=Anonymous]Does your alma mater have an online alumni network/directory? If so, search for any alums who are patent attorneys in this area and ask if you can have a call or coffee with them to discuss transitioning into patent law. Take it seriously (Work with their schedule, don’t flake out).

In my experience, patent law, big firm only, on the pharmaceutical side, too much time at the PTO can be problematic.  It may be best to do a few years there, then move to a firm that will pay for law school while you work there.  Although your parents will pay, is getting increasingly hard to get a job in the patent field at a firm without some experience.

I don’t think 10 years at the PTO means you’d come in as a mid-level or senior associate, because Examiner skills, while possible helpful for basic patent prosecution, don’t equate to the skills you need/would develop as a patent attorney. 
 
Also, even if you were able to come into a firm at a more senior level after firing big firms, coming in as a more senior attorney doesn’t mean you don’t have to work the crazy hours the young law school grads.  You may have more control over your schedule, but it’s still a lot of work.

Short answer- talk to some actual practing patent attorneys about the best path forward for you. [/quote]

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