UIC Law Graduate Lands Intellectual Property Job Offer at Top Chicago Law Firm
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UIC Law graduate Paris Booker was 13 years old when she first thought about becoming a lawyer, and she has done everything in her power to achieve this goal. From obtaining various forms of legal experience prior to attending law school, to being involved in multiple student organizations, publishing an article, obtaining a judicial externship, and planning one of UIC Law’s most successful legal summits, Paris has worked and tailored her experiences to become a successful Intellectual Property (IP) and Commercial Litigator at Swanson, Martin & Bell, LLP, pending bar passage.
After completing her bachelor’s degree in political science at Valparaiso University, Paris was hired at Hanley, Flight & Zimmerman, LLC in Chicago as an Intellectual Property Legal Assistant. This laid the foundation for her fascination with patent and trademark law due to the intricate and complex nature of its processes, and particularly in protecting the creations of the human mind.
“The realization that I could contribute to preserving and promoting client innovation fueled my sense of purpose. I want to champion and nurture innovation for all, ensuring that every member of society has the chance to contribute to the marketplace of ideas and thrive. It was then that I knew I wanted to immerse myself in this dynamic and impactful world,” Paris stated.
Later, Paris transitioned into the role of Patent Law Clerk where she worked throughout the duration of her time in law school. Since being in school, Paris’ biggest accomplishment was publishing her own article in UIC Law’s Review of Intellectual Property Law (RIPL), where she also served as the lead articles editor. Her article discussed the incorrect ruling in Lodestar Anstalt v. Bacardi & Co as it related to trademark infringement for small businesses. She also credits her work on RIPL with helping her realize her dream of becoming a published author in the legal industry.
Paris was also heavily involved in various other extracurricular activities while in school. She was a member of the UIC Law Moot Court Honors Council, a Dean F. Fred Herzog Moot Court Competition Quarterfinalist, a preparedness coach for Lawyering Skills III, and served as secretary for the Black Law Students Association (BLSA) where she assisted in the planning and execution of the 2023 and 2024 Black Legal Summit. She also completed a judicial externship with the Honorable Sharon Johnson Coleman for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
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UIC Law has been instrumental in preparing me for my legal career, offering invaluable professional opportunities, mentorship, leadership roles, and practical experiences.
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Reflecting on her time at UIC Law, Paris credits the “exceptional faculty” in helping prepare her for a successful legal career. She states, “Throughout my tenure at UIC Law, I have had the privilege of learning from exceptional professors who have been pivotal in shaping my journey and inspiring my ambitions…Professors such as Dean Jones, Professor Hunt, Professor Pleasant, and Interim Director McCain not only imparted knowledge but also motivated me to pursue my legal ambitions with passion and dedication.”
Upon bar passage, Paris will move on to work in the Intellectual Property & Media Entertainment practice groups at Swanson, Martin & Bell, LLP where she will work as a defense litigator, a dream her 13-year-old self will finally see become a reality. She also plans to continue writing scholarly articles with a goal of becoming a trusted source in the legal field.