<p>runeaglerun12,</p>
<p>you are absolutely right that pay varies. </p>
<p>The explanation I have heard is that usually on per-hour basis work comes from smaller companies which (relatively speaking) do not provide much business to the firm. This kind of work is more readily available when times are good and there are many start-ups popping up. However, when economy is bad, law firms have to increasingly rely on a flat-rate basis work that comes from large companies (that guarantee volume).</p>
<p>I have also heard that since dotcom bust (more than decade ago), this is the mode of operation for many firms. They have to do a lot of flat rate work and on per-hour work is far and few in between. </p>
<p>I was myself considering going this route (becoming patent agent, not a lawyer due to minimal training required) several years ago, when I was faced with possibility of increased travel at my work. Eventually I stayed at my work as I negotiated the amount of travel I have to do with my manager. Anyway, I did talk to many patent lawyer and agents, and everyone echoed the theme of bad job market and many unpaid hours (which did not scare me, because as an exempt employee I don’t get paid overtime anyway).</p>