Knowledge & Learning
Our people are what make us stand out, so effective training and knowledge sharing is crucial.
We nurture and develop talent, so from day one you will receive support and encouragement to introduce you to the firm and your role so that you can maximise your potential.
We are fully committed to helping you gain the necessary knowledge to perform your current role and prepare you for future roles to help you on your career path. One to one mentoring is rare in the intellectual property legal sector, but it is something that you will benefit from, as well as working with an exceptional team of welcoming and talented colleagues.
We are devoted to helping everyone continue to be the best they can be.
Route to patent qualification
On becoming a patent attorney, you will join a profession which is intellectually stimulating and allows you to build on your technical expertise.
There are a number of qualifications needed to become a patent attorney.
Foundation examinations
Your route to qualification begins with the Postgraduate Certificate in Intellectual Property and, after completing two years of qualifying experience, the Pre EQE, the first stage of the European qualification examinations (EQEs).
Post foundation examinations
After successfully completing your foundation examinations, you prepare for the UK Patent Examination Board (PEB) final diploma papers, FD1 and FD4, to complete the UK examinations needed for full qualification. To complete the EQEs and become European qualified you will need to pass all four EQE papers.
Full qualification
Full qualification is achieved by passing the UK (PEB) exams FD1 and FD4 and all four EQEs. (Successful completion of all four EQEs means that you do not need to complete the UK papers FD2 and FD3 to become fully qualified).
Years 1-2
- Join D Young & Co
- Commence foundation training
- PG Certificate in IP training and examinations
Years 2-3
- Apply legal and technical knowledge to a varied caseload
- Pre EQE examination
Years 3-4
- Commence post foundation training
- UK (PEB) exams FD1 and FD4
- EQE examinations (A,B,C,D)
- Qualification as registered (UK) and European patent attorney
We are well known for our flexible approach to professional development and can tailor training to meet the needs of our technical assistants to allow them to develop in the most appropriate way for both themselves and the firm. We will work with you to ensure that the route you take is appropriate, and where necessary alternative time frames are put in place.