Re: ABA v non-ABA law degree

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On 7/11/04, Patent agent wrote:
> I would love to have a solo practice but malpractice insurance is
> too expensive and its too easy to get sued.
>
> My former law firm no longer exists. It was a boutique and I think
> it lost business to the larger firms.
>
> I've had two recent interviews by law firms wanting agents and I
> have one on Tuesday at a biotech company. So I'm not worried about
> finding work as an agent.
>

Under the circumstances you detail here, I would only have suggest one
additional point to consider. Do you see yourself ever attending an
ABA school? If not, I'd suggest finishing your studies and then
making your own call about taking the CA bar. (lean towards taking it)

Studying the law will make you a better practitioner IMO. If you ever decide
to practice solo, I think the credential will stand you in good stead
even if law firms do not like it. It may also give you the opportunity to
partner up with other patent attorneys (I don't know if the law in CA
would prevent a patent attorny and a patent agent from partnering up, but in some states a patent attorny either cannot partner up with an agent or must restrict himself to only practice before the PTO.