Employer: Palmer & Dodge LLP of Boston, where Evans is co-chair of the Patent Practice Group.

What does a patent attorney do? Patent attorneys are like any other attorneys, but specialize in patent work. There are two types: patent litigation and patent prosecution. If the attorney works in patent litigation, they argue cases. However, patent prosecutors doesn't go to court. Patent prosecutors help analyze patents to see if they are valid and if all the requirements are met. They also look at patents globally to see if there are any patents that block the company. I worked as a patent prosecutor, but I don't prosecute patents anymore. I have a training role, and most of the time I counsel and build portfolios.

Does this job require special training? Patent attorneys are unique, because they must pass another bar exam in addition to the state bar exam all attorneys have to pass. Patent attorneys are also required to have a technical degree in order to sit for the bar exam, such as biology or engineering. In addition, you need to be actively trained to do the job.

What is your specialty? Biotechnology.

What does your typical day look like? I assist the junior associates by reviewing their work and answering their questions. I also spend time talking with my clients and trying to solve their problems. I work on my own legal work for clients directly, by counseling or looking through the patent options.

Is school required? Patent attorneys have an undergraduate degree in their specialty, such as biology, engineering, or chemistry. Afterward, no more than three years of law school is required.

What is the procedure for obtaining a patent? Clients will tell about the invention. Generally, they prepare a written description but can also do it verbally, in a meeting or over the phone. Then the patent lawyer determines if it's patentable. If it is, we move forward and file an application. The application is examined by the US Patent and Trademark Office. Once it's granted by the Office of Patent and Trademark, the patent is issued.

How long does it take to obtain a patent? A minimum of two to three years.

How did you get into this field? Like most people in the field, I was a scientist before attending law school. I was a chemist for five years. I decided to go to law school, and now I work in the patent area and use my scientific background.

What's the salary range like for someone in this field? The starting range is from $80,000 to $100,000.

Any final thoughts about your job? It's important to know that patent lawyers are highly specialized. They do far more than just prosecuting patents. It's very rewarding to work in this field.

-LYDIA KIM