Welcome to the latest instalment of Managing IP’s ‘Five minutes with’ series, where we learn more about IP practitioners on a personal as well as a professional level. This time we have Sharon Urias, partner at Greenspoon Marder in the US.
Someone asks you at a party what you do for a living. What do you say?
I am an IP lawyer that specialises in trademarks.
Talk us through a typical working day.
My typical working day is not very exciting. I usually have several scheduled calls throughout the day with clients or other attorneys, and meetings with my associate and paralegal. I am often revising or drafting briefs, motions, letters, or other documents. I rarely get through my daily ‘to-do’ list because new items always come up.
What are you working on at the moment?
I am in the process of settling a trademark infringement case and preparing for depositions in another infringement case.
Does one big piece of work usually take priority or are you juggling multiple things?
I typically juggle multiple things at once. Priority goes to the matter(s) with the nearest deadlines, not necessarily the biggest piece of work.
What is the most exciting aspect of your role and what is the most stressful?
The most exciting aspect of my role is working through novel and challenging legal issues and developing winning strategies, particularly in trademark cases.
Tell us the key characteristics that make a successful IP lawyer/practitioner.
I think one of the most important characteristics of a successful IP lawyer is the ability to think outside the box and think of creative strategies and solutions for clients. It goes without saying that a successful IP lawyer also needs to stay up to date on current law.
What is the most common misconception about IP?
Confusion between copyrights and trademarks! I have explained the difference between the two countless times.
What or who inspires you?
I am inspired by clients with exciting, innovative ideas. I love being a part of the whole process, from conception to reality, seeing new ideas and concepts come to life.
If you weren’t in IP, what would you be doing?
I would just be a commercial litigator wishing that I were in IP!
Any advice you would give your younger self?
Stay focused not just on the area of practice that interests you, but also on the industries that inspire you. Don’t be so hard on yourself, it takes time to develop the confidence and expertise to achieve success!
