H. Cearra Smith
Summary
Results-driven intellectual property paralegal proficient in managing patent and trademark prosecution. Combines strong organizational skills with detailed legal research and effective docket management to support attorneys and enhance the success of legal teams.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Intellectual Property Paralegal
Messner Reeves LLP
Colorado Springs, CO
01.2023 - Current
- Manage all aspects of patent and trademark prosecution, including preparation and filing of USPTO documents, assignment recordations, renewals, maintenance fee payments, and drafting prosecution-related correspondence.
- Conducted prior art research and trademark clearance searches to enhance filing strategies and fortify intellectual property portfolios.
- Maintained patent and trademark dockets with AppColl and AltLegal, ensuring timely filings and compliance with deadlines; prepared and managed IDS submissions through MaxVal IDS and processed annuities through CPI.
- Oversaw client intake, matter setup, and portfolio administration, serving as primary contact for status updates, formalities requests, billing support, and case management.
Legal Administrator
Janko Family Law
Colorado Springs, CO
08.2022 - 01.2023
- Managed legal administrative tasks, including client intakes, electronic court filings, and record maintenance to ensure compliance and organization.
- Filed motions and pleadings using Colorado's electronic court filing system to ensure timely submissions.
- Compiled trial and exhibit notebooks to facilitate effective presentation during court proceedings.
- Supported payroll and HR functions, providing organizational assistance to streamline operations.
Office Manager
Timeshare Help Source
Colorado Springs, CO
07.2021 - 08.2022
- Facilitated office setup, led team of four, and supported smooth business operations.
- Delivered exceptional customer service and managed accurate data using CRM software to enhance client satisfaction.
Agency Account Specialist
California Casualty Management Company
Colorado Springs, CO
02.2020 - 03.2021
- Managed insurance policies, prepared coverage quotes, and responded to client inquiries while cultivating insurer relationships and maintaining accurate records.
Insurance Specialist
USAA
Colorado Springs, CO
09.2016 - 02.2020
- Issued and managed insurance policies, responded to inquiries, and delivered customer service, consistently exceeding sales goals and ensuring accurate record-keeping.
Gunner's Mate - First Class Petty Officer
United States Navy & United Naval Reserve Force
03.2012 - 12.2018
- Military Service
Education
Associate's Degree - Paralegal Studies
Pikes Peak State College
Colorado Springs, CO05-2025
Skills
- Patent Prosecution
- Trademark Registration
- Legal Research
- Litigation Support
- Docket Management
- Case Management
- Document Management
- Organizational Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Client communication
Certification
- Trademark Paralegal Certificate
- Colorado Notary Public
Timeline
Intellectual Property Paralegal
Messner Reeves LLP
01.2023 - Current
Legal Administrator
Janko Family Law
08.2022 - 01.2023
Office Manager
Timeshare Help Source
07.2021 - 08.2022
Agency Account Specialist
California Casualty Management Company
02.2020 - 03.2021
Insurance Specialist
USAA
09.2016 - 02.2020
Gunner's Mate - First Class Petty Officer
United States Navy & United Naval Reserve Force
03.2012 - 12.2018
Associate's Degree - Paralegal Studies
Pikes Peak State College