The SMU Dedman School of Law is seeking a full-time Director of its transactional clinic currently known as the Small Business & Trademark Clinic (“SBT Clinic”), one of the Law School’s 9 in-house clinics, beginning in Fall 2023. The SMU Clinical Program will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2023, and the addition of the new Director will build upon SMU’s strong foundation of clinical legal education and further its commitment of service to the community. The position is a non-tenured faculty position at the rank of Assistant, Associate or Clinical Professor, depending on the successful candidate’s experience and qualifications. Hiring is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of a background check.

            The SBT Clinic is a one-semester clinic in which students represent clients in a range of business matters. The trademark practice of the clinic is part of the Law Clinic Certification Program of the United States Patent Office (USPTO). Participating students acquire practical skills and training in many areas used by business lawyers, including:

•                Start-up services for small for-profit businesses, including counseling on organizational structure and operations

•                Preparation of documents used in the formation of new businesses, including certificates of formation, bylaws, company agreements, and corporate resolutions

•                Legal advice, negotiation and drafting of legal contracts, licenses and other documents used by small businesses and non-profit organizations

•                Start-up services for non-profit organizations, including assisting in applying for tax-exempt status

•                Review of contracts presented to small businesses and non-profit organizations by third parties

•                Research or clearance search to determine availability of trademark for registration

•                Preparation of federal trademark applications with the United States Patent & Trademark Office and state trademark applications with the Texas Secretary of State

Clinic Director Responsibilities

•                Develop a vision to take the SBT Clinic as it moves into its second decade;

•                Teach clinic seminar focusing on core practice issues relevant to a transactional practice, including topics on substantive business law and related procedural and ethical rules, as well as practical lawyering

•                Establish policies, protocols, and procedures that govern the operation of the SBT Clinic and manage all aspect of the Clinic’s practice;

•                Supervise and evaluate approximately 8 students per semester;

•                Serve as the attorney of record on all trademark applications filed with the USPTO through the clinic and ensure compliance with the Certification Program;

•                Contribute to the law school, legal profession and the community through leadership, collaboration or service.

Qualifications

•                J.D. degree and licensed by the Supreme Court of Texas (or eligible for licensing by Summer 2023) and in good standing:

•                At least 5 years practice experience with a focus on entrepreneurship, non-profits, business transactions and/or intellectual property including trademarks;

•                At least three years of experience in prosecuting trademark applications before the USPTO within the last five years. See 37 C.F.R. §§ 11.16(c)(2)(i) and 11.16(c)(2)(ii).

•                Teaching experience or a passion for student development and training;

•                A demonstrated commitment to public service and a desire to engage in the intellectual life of the University;

•                Strong oral and written communication skills;

•                Strong organizational skills;

•                Strong collaborative skills or experience in working with other professionals. 

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience. SMU offers also offers a comprehensive benefits package that include tuition benefits, paid holidays and more.

            Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. The priority consideration date is January 2, 2023. but the search committee will continue to accept applications until the position is filled. Candidates will also be required to submit applications electronically via Interfolio: http://apply.interfolio.com/117644. These materials should include a cover letter, resume, writing sample(s) and a list of references. Reference Position No. 53427.

            Additional information about the work of the SBT Clinic can be found here.

            SMU Dedman School of Law is committed to educating exceptional future attorneys. Key to their education is the opportunity to engage with faculty, staff, and students who represent different backgrounds and perspectives. To support our commitment, we encourage applicants from diverse and/or historically underrepresented backgrounds to apply for open employment opportunities. The Law School values diversity, equity, and inclusion in both education and hiring and seeks out applicants who share and can enhance the Law School’s values and commitment.

            SMU will not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. The Executive Director for Access and Equity/Title IX Coordinator is designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies and may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601,  accessequity@smu.edu.