About WSPLA Membership
Persons interested in joining the Washington State Patent Law Association may elect from the following three membership classifications (memberships renewal annually on September 1st):
- Voting Members – Any person admitted to practice law in the State of Washington or who is a registered patent lawyer, intellectual property attorney or patent agent, and who is actively engaged in the practice of law relating to patents, trademarks or copyrights, and, in connection with such practice, spends at least part time within the State of Washington, is eligible for voting membership. Annual dues are $80.00.
- Associate Members – Any person who is not eligible for voting membership but who is either a former voting member and no longer a resident of Washington State, or is a resident of Washington State and is interested in any phase of the practice of patent, trademark or copyright law is eligible for associate membership. This classification includes paralegals, legal assistants, and other staff members. Annual associate member dues are $30.00.
- Student Affiliates – Any person who is regularly enrolled as a candidate for a professional law degree in a law school within Washington State, and who would be otherwise qualified for voting or associate membership if a member of the Bar, may make application as a student affiliate. Annual student member dues are $15.00.
The Washington State Patent Law Association may also extend invitations under a fourth membership classification:
- Honorary Members – Invitations may be extended by the Association to distinguished persons (e.g. judges) as the Board deems proper. Persons elected as honorary members are entitled to all privileges of membership, except that of voting, and are exempt from paying dues.