Grace O’Connor is a solicitor at Davies Collison Cave, practicing in the field of intellectual property law. For SATLA’s Careers Spotlight, we spoke to Grace about how working in the field allows her to utilise her interests in both science and the law, and how adopting new technology into practice can offer stronger client outcomes.

Q: What does a typical day in your work look like?

GO: In any given day, I might engage in a range of activities including meetings with expert witnesses, drafting evidence, preparing inter-party correspondence or letters of advice, participating in team meetings to determine litigation strategies or meeting with clients. Our work is highly technical, investigative and broad ranging. In any one day, I might work on several matters covering multiple different forms of IP. 

Q: Do you foresee technology becoming a larger factor in your work? In what ways does it impact your field?

GO: Technology has already had a major impact on legal practice. In litigation, this is particularly observable in document review technology. The ability to adapt to changes in technology and to maintain a flexible mindset when it comes to technological developments is now part of the basic essential skillset of a lawyer. 

In my view, intellectual property practitioners are uniquely placed to incorporate new and advanced technology into our practice, as the constantly varied subject matter we deal with on a daily basis means we are always exposed to new and different concepts, and we quickly become expert “learners”. 

The efficiencies in daily practice offered by better technology continue to be an exciting prospect, not only because it offers the opportunity to make our day-to-day practice easier, but most importantly because it will translate into even better outcomes for our clients. 

Q: Where do you see opportunities in your field growing in the future?

GO: There are plenty of exciting opportunities for practitioners skilled in intellectual property law into the future. Intellectual property assets are increasingly becoming recognised and properly valued as key assets for businesses large and small. The commercialisation, licensing and resolution of disputes concerning intellectual property assets is sure to continue into the future. Intellectual property issues will further grow in prominence and importance as businesses continue to learn how to realise, harness and protect the value of their intellectual property.

Hear more from Grace O’Connor and life at Davies Collison Cave in SATLA’s Careers Spotlight. Stay updated on further news and opportunities in science and technology law by becoming a SATLA member at satla.net/join and by following SATLA on Facebook or LinkedIn.