FAQs
General Questions about Firm
Why should I join an IP firm instead of an IP department at a large general practice firm?
IP is all we do. We have a singular focus and all of our professionals are on the same page. The scope, depth, and breadth of our intellectual property expertise sets us apart even from the huge multinational law firms that have built IP departments in recent years. Our size, strength, focus, and national reputation bring industry leaders, renowned universities, and high-profile start-up companies to our door, yet our high-powered practice occurs in an intimate setting where we know and care about one another and achieve an enviable balance between work and home. Our systems and processes are set up for an IP practice, so there’s never any doubt that you will have the support structure you need to get your work done as efficiently and effectively as possible.
How does Wolf Greenfield's single office compete with multi-office law firms?
For more than 80 years, our Boston office has attracted top legal talent and A-list clients from all over the world. A centralized location fosters strong attorney relationships and helpful exchanges of information. When a client’s needs call for international services, we rely on our carefully chosen network of international law firms to provide the specific knowledge and service required.
What is the management structure of the firm?
First, we are a professional corporation, which is why our “partners” are called shareholders. The firm’s Executive Committee (EC) is charged with making policy decisions for the firm. The current EC members are Tim Oyer (President and Managing Partner), shareholders Ed Perlman and Randy Pritzker, and Executive Director, Bob Edwards, who is responsible for managing the firm’s daily operations. A team of Directors, reporting to Bob Edwards, manages the firm’s six administrative departments:
- Client Services – Sara Crocker
- Finance – Maureen Rielly-Ross
- Human Resources and Facilities – Sheila Connors LeDuc
- Information Technology – Matt Berg
- Intellectual Property Services – Lisa Fletcher
- Paralegal and Library Services – Kathy Kerr
What are the criteria for partnership?
We evaluate associates under consideration for partnership on their own unique merits, and based on their total contribution to the firm. Billable hours are a factor, but only one of many, including non-billable contributions to the firm such as mentoring of younger lawyers. You will receive a formal list of criteria, and we regularly offer feedback on whether you’re “on track.” If any issues arise, we'll let you know what specific areas need improvement.
What is the ratio of associates to shareholders?
Grouped together, the associates and tech specs have a roughly 2/1 ratio to shareholders. We don’t have a specific target for this ratio, but are careful to ensure that all of our people get the right on-the-job training by working closely with shareholders. We will also see that you work with as many shareholders as possible during your years as an associate so that, as a group, they are familiar with you and your work when considering you for partnership.
Do I need a science or engineering degree to work at Wolf Greenfield?
As a member of one of our patent groups, you will need at least an undergraduate degree in science or engineering. As a member of either our Litigation or Trademark Groups, however, no such restriction applies.
Do Associates and Technology Specialists serve on firm committees?
Absolutely. We value the input of our associates and tech specs and include them on nearly all firm committees, including Hiring, Training, Technology, and Client Services Committees. In addition, we have an Associates Committee which serves as a liaison between the associates/tech specs and firm management.
What is the dress code at Wolf Greenfield?
We are “business casual” every day and those wearing jeans on Fridays make a $1 donation to a firm-sponsored charity. Of course, we expect all employees to dress appropriately when attending court, client or other professional meetings.
What kind of social activities can I expect?
We enjoy firm-wide, group-wide, and cross-group social activities, and both planned and impromptu get-togethers. We schedule a firm-wide winter party each year as well as an annual summer outing for employees and their families.
In addition, there are occasional “Wine Downs”, informal late afternoon gatherings in the office to celebrate firm victories, in court as well as on the court. We’ve recently added “Game Night” with tutorials offered for those who need some coaching in the art of poker before joining the game.
Periodically, family members, including children, are invited to the firm where special age-appropriate activities are planned. We would be thrilled to have you join our notorious softball team or our championship basketball team (be sure to ask about the trophy!).
What’s the best way to reach the building?
The firm is located at 600 Atlantic Avenue, directly across the street from South Station. Commuter rail, bus, Silver and Red Line trains arriving at South Station allow for a particularly easy commute, but there is just a short walk involved to reach Blue and Orange line trains. The T’s Green Line is within walking distance, but also accessible via a quick ride on the Red Line. For complete directions, click here.
Where can I park if I want to drive into work?
There is a parking lot directly across the channel that is visible from Summer Street. It is often referred to as the “Necco” lot. Also, there is parking at the Federal Courthouse and at other local lots which offer both daily and monthly parking rates.
Where can I get lunch around here?
The firm provides refrigerators, toasters and microwaves for those who choose to bring lunch from home. The building offers a full cafeteria. In addition, there are many spots in the neighborhood offering a wide range of lunch options.
Questions about Summer Associate Program
What are the dates of the summer program?
Each year the starting date varies, but for this year, our program runs from May 27 to August 8.
How many summer associates are in your program?
We’ve hired between 3 and 6 summer associates over each of the past four years.
Will you consider hiring 1Ls?
Yes. We hire both 1L and 2L law students from all over the country, but focus on those interested in practicing intellectual property law in Boston.
What if I need to take a day off over the summer?
Take a day off.
What if I’m getting married over the summer?
Congratulations! If you know in advance that you’ll be unavailable during a portion of the summer (such as for a wedding, travel, etc.) just let us know as soon as you can. We are flexible and can accommodate most such plans.
What if I’m away all summer?
Then, um, the summer program may not be for you.
Can I split my summer?
Yes. We will certainly consider requests to spend a portion of the summer at another firm, but historically have only done so for 2Ls.
What are the hours for summer associates?
The firm has flexible daytime hours for associates and there is no specific total hours requirement for summer associates. The general guideline is that you should generally be at the office between the hours of 9:00 and 5:00, however, if you want to come in early or stay late, it is fine to adjust your schedule accordingly. However, if you find yourself regularly working longer hours, you probably have too much work and should see the Summer Program Coordinator.
How much control will I have over my mix of work?
We try to give each summer associate a variety of work over the summer, mixing practice area (such as patent prosecution, litigation, and agreement work), legal focus (such as patent, trademark, and copyright), and, if you have the background, technical focus (such as mechanical, electrical, and biotech). If you have a particular interest, let the Summer Program Coordinator know and we’ll do our best to match that interest with an ongoing firm project.
How do I get feedback from the work I’ve done?
The attorneys you’re working for will provide feedback on specific projects as the summer progresses. There will also be a mid-summer evaluation and an evaluation at the end of the summer for your work.
Can I do some pro bono work during my summer?
Absolutely. Just let the Summer Program Coordinator know you are interested in a pro bono project. And check our our Pro Bono page.
What if I’m a Yankees Fan?
Wolf Greenfield does not discriminate against Yankees fans. (Although you still may not want to advertise your allegiance. And at Fenway, it is not recommended to wear your favorite Yankees hat.)
When are hiring decisions made?
Hiring decisions are usually finalized, and communicated to you, before the end of the summer.
What is it like to be a full time associate at Wolf Greenfield?
Funny you should ask. Take a look at our Associates/Laterals Frequently Asked Questions page.
