AA Thornton > London, England > Firm Profile
AA Thornton Offices
AA Thornton
Octagon Point
5 Cheapside
LONDON
EC2V 6AA
England
Octagon Point
5 Cheapside
LONDON
EC2V 6AA
England
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AA Thornton > The Legal 500 Rankings
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > PATMA: Patent attorneys Tier 2
AA Thornton is praised by clients for its ‘deep understanding of the complexities within the biotech landscape’, and it handles large volumes of patent filing applications to the EPO and UKIPO. The practice’s client base is broad ranging, encompassing SMES, individual investors, and international corporations across Europe, North America, India, and the Far East. Sectors of strength for the team include life sciences, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, computing, telecoms, construction, engineering, manufacturing, oil and gas, and aerospace industries, amongst others. The team is especially skilled in patent work regarding complex computer-implemented technologies, for example, quantum computing, artificial intelligence, computer simulation, and modelling. Managing partner Adrian Bennett leads the engineering, physics, and mechanical devices group with significant experience in EPO opposition proceedings. ‘Excellent attorney’ Craig Turner heads up the chemistry, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals team, and he has extensive expertise in contentious matters. Turner is supported by senior associate Leonita Paulraj and Marianne Privett, who manages global patent portfolios. Mike Jennings chairs the electrical engineering, electronics telecoms, and IT patents department.Practice head(s):
Adrian Bennett; Craig Turner; Mike Jennings
Other key lawyers:
Marianne Privett; Alex Bone; Leonita Paulraj
Testimonials
‘The patent attorneys practice stands out due to its exceptional expertise and commitment to client satisfaction and it offers comprehensive and customised patent services specifically tailored for the biotech industry. What sets it apart from other firms is its deep understanding of the complexities within the biotech landscape and its ability to effectively handle patent prosecution and licensing matters.’
‘Craig Turner is an excellent attorney, team leader, and advocate. His professionalism, communication skills, legal and technological analytical skills, and advocacy skills in European patent litigation is impressive.’
‘Marianne Privett has exceptional analytical abilities, which have enabled her to obtain the grant of some extremely difficult patents. In addition, Marianne provides invaluable legal advice relating to European patent practice, and her general communication skills are excellent.’
‘The patent attorneys practice truly stand out for its exceptional qualities, deep expertise, and unwavering dedication to client success. It is differentiated by its professionalism, technical acumen, and effective communication of complex concepts.’
‘The team at AA Thornton provides insightful comments on patent law that guides decision-making processes. The team members are clear, prompt, and always willing to help.’
‘Incredibly helpful, patient, and always able to answer any questions. Always able to take the time and help navigate the legalities of IP protection.’
‘Leonita Paulraj has a very impressive ability to handle a large number of quite complex European patent applications. Leonita is clearly very competent with regard to patent prosecutions in Europe and has obtained several important patents.’
‘Craig Turner and Leonita Paulraj are helpful, thorough, and extremely reliable. One knows that when issues are discussed with them, you will receive a clear, thoughtful answer.’
Key clients
Wlness Science
Solveteq
DeLaval Holding AB
Cambridge Quantum Computing
Authentix Inc.
OSG Water
Robert Bosch GmbH
Estée Lauder
Sol-Gel Materials and Applications
Sulphur Mills
Work highlights
- Representing Authentix in a difficult prosecution before the European Patent Office and obtaining a decision from the Board of Appeal that will ensure Authentix obtain the grant of a European patent, based on claims that cover many of their commercially important compounds.
- Acted for Bosch on solving problems that could have resulted in significant commercial consequences by securing retrospective UK design protection and recovering UK patent protection that had lapsed.
- Advised a UK client on patent infringement and validity matters for one of its acquired companies that was interested in implementing a combined hardware and software solution.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > PATMA: Trade mark attorneys Tier 2
AA Thornton’s ‘first-class team’ provides UK-based companies and international clients with advice on global trade mark portfolio management, which encompasses filing and prosecuting applications, contentious mandates such as cancellations, oppositions, and enforcement proceedings, and appeals. Co-practice head Ian Gill is praised for combining his ‘in-depth knowledge of trade mark law with outstanding business acumen’, and he leads the team alongside the recently promoted and ‘very efficient’ Sarah Darby. Senior associate Sarah Neil handles large IP portfolios, and Louise Foster supports clients in the manufacturing, publishing, and retail industries. September 2022 saw the arrival of Lucy Pope from HGF Limited, while Rachel Havard departed to join Two IP.Practice head(s):
Ian Gill; Sarah Darby
Other key lawyers:
Suzanne Power; Louise Foster; Sarah Neil
Testimonials
‘Sarah Darby and her team do a terrific job in managing huge portfolios, keeping on top of things at all times and providing pragmatic, strategic advice. I very much value working with her.’
‘Ian Gill and Sarah Neil invest time in getting to understand the background and context of any matters we raise with them, and have a long-standing track record of skilfully guiding us through seemingly difficult processes.’
‘High level of quality maintained amongst the different team members, and Suzanne Power provides sound advice on tricky matters.’
‘Ian Gill, Sarah Darby, and Sarah Neil are all are very efficient and concise in communicating and proactively making proposals, making it easy for the client to respond.’
‘First-class team always thinking laterally. Great fun to work with, and they are innovative, bright, and pragmatic.’
‘The team are specialist trade mark attorneys and their expertise really shines through. They are also more than mere process driven; they consistently excel in giving client-intelligible counsel and strategic advice.’
‘Ian Gill is a star, a good businessman, and strategy head. He is always calm, clear, and appropriately guiding.’
‘Ian Gill is extremely knowledge. He combines his in-depth knowledge of trade mark law with outstanding business acumen.’
Key clients
ZPG
Fytexia SAS
Virgin Enterprises Ltd
Merck
Jimmy Choo
Primark Limited
R. Twining and Company Limited
AB World Foods Limited
Admiral Group
Calor Gas
Equip Outdoor Technologies
Jordans, Dorset, Ryvita Company Limited
Estee Lauder
Reiss
Work highlights
- Advised Silver Cross on the expansion of protection of its trade mark portfolio to cover new growth areas in terms of products, markets, and sub-brands in over 30 new countries.
- Advising British fashion house Paul Smith on a variety of matters, including an international dispute involving the mark JOHN SMITH, which is stylised in an identical way to the iconic PAUL SMITH mark.
- Advising Admiral Group plc on a dispute relating to the mark ADMIRALS of Admiral Markets before the UKIPO, with related proceedings in the High Court.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: patents (contentious and non-contentious) Tier 5
‘Superb’ AA Thornton’s expertise encompasses patent disputes, patent prosecution and opposition work, as well as the management of global patent portfolios. Practice head Geoff Hussey routinely advises clients in relation to IP ownership structures and licensing, amongst other matters. Other recommended lawyers include Adrian Bennett, Craig Turner and Mike Jennings, who all possesses extensive litigation experience. Daniel Byrne has worked on telecoms, pharma and renewable energy patent litigation.Practice head(s):
Geoff Hussey; Adrian Bennett; Craig Turner; Mike Jennings
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Geoff Hussey has a good grasp of strategy, and dealing with clients.’
‘Superb service every time.’
‘Their unique combination of expertise, innovation, and client-centric approach sets them apart from other firms. Potential clients would be delighted to know that the team’s strengths lie in their deep understanding of the biotech landscape and their ability to provide comprehensive support for both contentious and non-contentious patent matters.’
‘Their knowledge, dedication, and exceptional qualities differentiate them from their competitors. I have valued their professionalism, expertise, and proactive approach to meeting our company’s IP needs.’
‘Specifically, Craig Turner at AA Thornton has been an invaluable asset to our patent strategy. Their in-depth understanding of our business and industry has allowed for tailored advice that aligns perfectly with our commercial objectives.’
‘Daniel Byrne deserves special mention for his exceptional negotiation skills in licensing deals. Dan’s expertise in patent licensing and business acumen have made them an outstanding partner in our licensing endeavours.’
‘The team have excellent knowledge in a wide variety of technical areas as well as their patent knowledge.’
Key clients
Oil States International Inc.
Lisa Dräxlmaier
Zaun Limited
DeLaval Holding AB
Cambridge Quantum Computing Limited
Robert Bosch GmbH
Estée Lauder (ELC Management LLC)
CellmAbs
Sol-Gel Materials and Applications Ltd
Marston Holdings
Work highlights
- Advising Lisa Draxlmaier GmbH in the only judgment from the UK court applying the principle of a useful purpose to the seeking of a statutory declaration in patent law (in this case a sought declaration of non-infringement under s71 of the Patents Act).
- Advising Zaun Limited on an appeal to the main CJEU from the General Court in a case that concerns the interaction between patent rights and design rights and in particular how the disclosure in a patent can influence the issue of technical function of a design.
- Acted for the opponent DeLaval Holdings AB in its complete revocation at the European Patent Office of a competitor patent, where the decision to revoke was based on a ground of opposition which is rarely successful – lack of sufficiency.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design Tier 5
Acting across a wide spectrum of sectors, AA Thornton advises clients on issues ranging from joint ventures to licensing deals, with a rise in digital assets, rights and AI-related matters. Co-lead Geoff Hussey assists on ownership structures and licensing mandates, with demonstrable experience in managing breach of contract disputes. Strengthening the firm’s offering is fellow co-leads Ian Gill and Sarah Darby, while Daniel Byrne is noted for his expertise in the realm of litigation. Lucy Pope joined from HGF Law in September 2022.Practice head(s):
Geoff Hussey; Ian Gill; Sarah Darby
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘What a team! Always there, always accurate, always got a solution to our many matters.’
‘Not having Geoff Hussey on the other side of a dispute helps me sleep at night.’
Key clients
Virgin Enterprises Ltd
Admiral Group
ABP Technology
Wolf 1834
Sony Corp
ZPG
Jimmy Choo
AB World Foods Limited
The New York Times Company
Calor Gas
Work highlights
- Acted for the claimant ABP Technology Limited in its successful appeal to the Court of Appeal in a trade mark infringement case, where the defendants were criticised for their conduct in the litigation.
- Advising on a complex trade mark dispute due for trial in 2024 and stemming from a claim for breach of contract following the re-brand of Admiral Markets to Admirals.
- Advising Virgin Enterprise Limited in a dispute concerning whether or not the term virgin is descriptive of a beer lacking alcohol or whether such use takes unfair advantage of or is detrimental to Virgin’s rights.
AA Thornton > Firm Profile
We are a leading intellectual property firm based in London and Alicante. Our team of committed and passionate individuals include patent, trade mark and design attorneys, as well as litigation solicitors, working with clients across a huge range of technologies and commercial fields. We provide the full range of IP services to clients around the world, from prosecution to litigation, in patent law, trade mark, design and copyright law.
Having an excellent understanding of our clients’ industries and the challenges they face is key to us delivering commercial, insightful legal advice. Our highly qualified industry teams are made up of attorneys and solicitors who work together to share knowledge and experience. We firmly believe it’s our people that make the difference and that this sets us apart from others. Simply stated, we speak our clients’ technical language!
We offer a completely bespoke service at a competitive price. We pride ourselves on our genuine desire to understand the way clients want to work with us, and provide every client with a personalised, superior service that reflects their commercial needs. Our advice is always in-depth, commercial and accessible. We ensure that your inventions, brands and designs are expertly protected and your risks are minimised.
Our corporate vision is “To be your preferred intellectual property firm”
We are proud to be an award-winning firm
We are consistently ranked and noted in leading Intellectual Property legal directories including:
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The Legal 500
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Chambers & Partners
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WTR 1000
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Managing IP Stars
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Financial Times
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Juve Patent
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IAM Patent 1000
IAM Patent 1000 – The World’s Leading Patent Professionals 2022: This week saw publication of the report ‘IAM Patent 1000 – The World’s Leading Patent Professionals 2022’ in which Dr Craig Turner’s “stellar track record before the EPO” was noted for his life science work. AA Thornton chairperson Adrian Bennett was recommended for mechanical engineering and Mike Jennings was identified as a “strategic thinker”. Mike particularly wishes to thank clients who told IAM’s researchers that “Mike is top-class in terms of his knowledge, skills and expertise. He is highly regarded as an AI expert and provides creative solutions.”
This adds to recent recommendations for the firm in the Financial Times report Europe’s Leading Patent Law Firms, and recent recognition for Dr Varuni Paranavitane and Dr Simon Davies in WIPR Patent Leaders Directory 2022.
Legal 500 2021
Our patent attorneys: ‘The team are innovative and creative in their responses on challenging issues in software and telecoms prosecution. They listen to feedback, work to understand the business goals, and then work to create a path to issuance with those elements at the front of their mind. Their success rate and the quality of the claims they obtain is consistently high – an excellent combination.’
‘Great attention to details. They advise businesses and draft patents with the commercial aspects in mind.’
Our trade mark attorneys: ‘The AAT team is extremely talented and their technical IP expertise is impressive. They are great at adapting to the client’s business needs and they appoint the most appropriate team member to each matter.’
‘A great team of specialist trade mark attorneys and practitioners. Down-to-earth, business-friendly advice from people who not only know the technicalities of trade mark law and practice here and elsewhere, but understand how trade marks work for businesses.’
Our litigation solicitors: ‘Exceptional knowledge and experience in complex IP litigation, including in the area of complex emerging technologies.
‘Geoff Hussey simplifies everything and makes managing litigation easy for in-house counsel. A strategic, pragmatic and commercially minded lawyer, he knows how to read adversaries and when to apply leverage. Straightforward and easy to work with.’
Chambers & Partners 2021
“My overall impression is one of a very professional and approachable organisation that takes you carefully and clearly through the complexity of the legal issues”
“very knowledgeable both in the subject matter and in the legal aspects of prosecution,” adding: “They are very efficient and extremely thorough in their analysis.”
“extensive range of skills and experience.”
Main Contacts
| Department | Name | Telephone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patents: Engineering, physics and mechanical devices | Adrian Bennett | ||
| Patents: Electrical, electronics, telecoms and IT | Mike Jennings | ||
| Patents: Chemistry, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals | Dr Craig Turner | ||
| Trade marks, design rights and copyright | Ian Gill | ||
| IP litigation and legal | Geoff Hussey | ||
| Trade marks, design rights and copyright | Sarah Darby | ||
| Patents: Electrical, electronics, telecoms and IT | Nick South | ||
| Patents: Electrical, electronics, telecoms and IT | Nikesh Patel | ||
| Patents: Chemistry, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals | Dr Marianne Privett | ||
| Patents: Engineering, physics and mechanical devices | Alex Bone | ||
| IP litigation and legal | Daniel Byrne |
Meet The Team(s)
Lawyer Profiles
| Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
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Adrian Bennett | Adrian is currently the firm’s partnership chairperson with responsibility for working with the… | View Profile |
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Alex Bone | Alex is a partner and UK Chartered and European Patent Attorney in… | View Profile |
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Mr Daniel Byrne | Daniel Byrne is a partner and barrister with extensive experience in intellectual… | View Profile |
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Sarah Darby | Sarah is a partner and UK Chartered Trade Mark Attorney and European… | View Profile |
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Ian Gill | Ian Gill has been a partner since 2001. With over 20 years… | View Profile |
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Geoff Hussey | With over 14 years’ experience, Geoff joined A.A. Thornton & Co. in… | View Profile |
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Mike Jennings | Partner Mike Jennings leads AAThornton’s highly rated Electrical Patents group. He specialises… | View Profile |
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Nikesh Patel | Nikesh is a partner and UK Chartered and European Patent Attorney inthe… | View Profile |
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Dr Marianne Privett | Marianne began her patent career in 2003 at Johnson Matthey. Whilst at… | View Profile |
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Nick South | Nick is a partner in the firm’s Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Telecoms &… | View Profile |
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Dr Craig Turner | Dr Craig Turner is a partner within the chemistry, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of partners : 13 Number of other fee-earners : 30Client testimonials
CLIENT: Dan Caunt, Head of Legal
COMPANY/FIRM: Admiral Group
TESTIMONIAL: “It is always reassuring to know that we have AA Thornton standing by to advise us all on IP and trade mark matters. Geoff Hussey and his team of lawyers and attorneys always provide us with first class advice and guidance. We would like to thank Sarah Neil for her great work on the recent sale of our European price comparison businesses to ZPG.”
CLIENT: Roland Earl, Director General
COMPANY/FIRM: British Toy and Hobby Association
TESTIMONIAL: “It has been our good fortune to have been a client of AA Thornton for many years in the area of protecting our intellectual property. Ian Gill and his team have assisted us in a plethora of ways in both the protection and arrangement of our trademarks and in their defence in the UK , EU and worldwide as needed. The advice and guidance has been excellent and their always proactive advice has proved invaluable. I have no hesitation in recommending their excellent service “
CLIENT: Emily O’Neill
COMPANY/FIRM: Spectris plc (now moved to Deminor Recovery Services)
TESTIMONIAL: “AA Thornton have provided me with thoughtful, considered and practical support as a Chief IP Counsel across prosecution, infringement analysis and support in the IP aspects of M&A transactions. Mike Jennings and Geoff Hussey provide commercial solutions, approach problems with real business acumen and are collegiate in supporting me to achieve my objectives. Client care at its best!”
CLIENT: Bill Stirling
COMPANY/FIRM: ABP Technology Ltd
TESTIMONIAL: “You [Partner Alex Bone] and your team have been very helpful and efficient during the patent process. Thank you on behalf of Paul, myself and the ABP team.”
Client Testimonials
COMPANY/FIRM: IAM Patent 1000 – The World’s Leading Patent Professionals 2022
TESTIMONIAL: Published in its 2002 report, the IAM 1000 mentioned Dr Craig Turner’s “stellar track record before the EPO” and he was noted for his life science work. AA Thornton chairperson Adrian Bennett was recommended for mechanical engineering and Mike Jennings was identified as a “strategic thinker”. Mike particularly wishes to thank clients who told IAM’s researchers that “Mike is top-class in terms of his knowledge, skills and expertise. He is highly regarded as an AI expert and provides creative solutions.”
This adds to recent recommendations for the firm in the Financial Times report Europe’s Leading Patent Law Firms, and recent recognition for Dr Varuni Paranavitane and Dr Simon Davies in WIPR Patent Leaders Directory 2022.
COMPANY/FIRM: Legal 500 2021
TESTIMONIAL:
“The team are innovative and creative in their responses on challenging issues in software and telecoms prosecution. They listen to feedback, work to understand the business goals, and then work to create a path to issuance with those elements at the front of their mind. Their success rate and the quality of the claims they obtain is consistently high – an excellent combination.”
“Great attention to details. They advise businesses and draft patents with the commercial aspects in mind.”
Also in relation to our Trade Mark Attorneys:
“The AAT team is extremely talented and their technical IP expertise is impressive. They are great at adapting to the client’s business needs and they appoint the most appropriate team member to each matter.”
“A great team of specialist trade mark attorneys and practitioners. Down-to-earth, business-friendly advice from people who not only know the technicalities of trade mark law and practice here and elsewhere, but understand how trade marks work for businesses.”
And in relation to our Litigation Solicitors:
“Exceptional knowledge and experience in complex IP litigation, including in the area of complex emerging technologies.
Geoff Hussey simplifies everything and makes managing litigation easy for in-house counsel. A strategic, pragmatic and commercially minded lawyer, he knows how to read adversaries and when to apply leverage. Straightforward and easy to work with.”
CLIENT:
COMPANY/FIRM: Chambers & Partners 2020
TESTIMONIAL: “My overall impression is one of a very professional and approachable organisation that takes you carefully and clearly through the complexity of the legal issues”
“very knowledgeable both in the subject matter and in the legal aspects of prosecution,” adding: “They are very efficient and extremely thorough in their analysis.”
“extensive range of skills and experience.”
CLIENT: Catriona Stevenson, General Counsel
COMPANY/FIRM: The Publishers Association
TESTIMONIAL: “Your work in assisting us to respond to the consultation on the UK’s future exhaustion of intellectual property rights regime was invaluable. Thank you”
CLIENT: Jeff Allan
COMPANY/FIRM: Jeff Vehicles Ltd
TESTIMONIAL: “Once again I am most grateful for all the work AA Thornton has done for me. Not only has the work been outstanding, you and your colleagues have been so enthusiastic and easy to work with.”
CLIENT: Dan Caunt, Head of Legal
COMPANY/FIRM: Admiral Group
TESTIMONIAL: “It is always reassuring to know that we have AA Thornton standing by to advise us all on IP and trade mark matters. Geoff Hussey and his team of lawyers and attorneys always provide us with first class advice and guidance. We would like to thank Sarah Neil for her great work on the recent sale of our European price comparison businesses to ZPG.”
CLIENT: Roland Earl, Director General
COMPANY/FIRM: British Toy and Hobby Association
TESTIMONIAL: “It has been our good fortune to have been a client of AA Thornton for many years in the area of protecting our intellectual property. Ian Gill and his team have assisted us in a plethora of ways in both the protection and arrangement of our trademarks and in their defence in the UK , EU and worldwide as needed. The advice and guidance has been excellent and their always proactive advice has proved invaluable. I have no hesitation in recommending their excellent service “
CLIENT: Emily O’Neill, IP & Litigation Counsel
COMPANY/FIRM: Spectris plc (now moved to Deminor Recovery Services)
TESTIMOIAL: “AA Thornton have provided me with thoughtful, considered and practical support as a Chief IP Counsel across prosecution, infringement analysis and support in the IP aspects of M&A transactions. Mike Jennings and Geoff Hussey provide commercial solutions, approach problems with real business acumen and are collegiate in supporting me to achieve my objectives. Client care at its best!”
CLIENT: Bill Stirling, Director & Co-owner
COMPANY/FIRM: ABP Technology Ltd
TESTIMONIAL: “You [Partner Alex Bone] and your team have been very helpful and efficient during the patent process. Thank you on behalf of Paul, myself and the ABP team.”
CLIENT: Matt Gowar, CEO
COMPANY/FIRM: Equip Outdoor Technologies
TESTIMONIAL: “Dan [Partner Dan Byrne] was superb and helped us through our case, clearly explaining the next steps and giving superb advice, that resulted in a great outcome for us.”
CLIENT: Ahmed Refaat, CTO
COMPANY/FIRM: Odqa
TESTIMONIAL: “We believe in the possibility of a better future, and we are glad that we chose you in our journey as you are equally passionate about our efforts to change the world. Thanks AA Thornton, we wouldn`t have done it without your input!”
CLIENT: Ahmed Refaat, CTO
COMPANY/FIRM: Odqa
TESTIMONIAL: “Since we are small team, we didn’t have resources to hire a separate intellectual property strategy team outside of AA Thornton, and we are very glad that we didn’t as AA Thornton helped us understand the boundaries of the protection of intellectual property in such a way that we formed our own intellectual property strategy and decided how we wanted to proceed with our intellectual property decisions without any additional costs. Your team has been very helpful and accommodating in every way imaginable. You know we are a small start-up trying to make an impact with limited resources and all of our interactions reflect the professionalism we were looking for.”
CLIENT: Andy Kemp, Founder
COMPANY/FIRM: EPIQ
TESTIMONIAL: “One of the more surprising aspects of our relation with AA Thornton is how easily you guys appeared to understand and handle this, and to adapt to the continuously moving target. I would definitely recommend looking for people you can work with easily, and who “get it” and speak your language!”
CLIENT: Client Testimonial, Legal 500 2021
TESTIMONIAL: “This is most certainly a unique practice. Their key strengths and capabilities are the uniformly very high standard of patent and trade mark work across the entire firm; very good communication skills; ability to obtain excellent results; and the exceptionally high level of honesty and trust. Their cost structure is very fair and they are nice people to do business with. Overall, this is an outstanding firm, and I cannot recommend it too highly.”
CLIENT: Client Testimonial, Legal 500 2021
TESTIMONIAL: “The team are innovative and creative in their responses on challenging issues in software and telecoms prosecution. They listen to feedback, work to understand the business goals, and then work to create a path to issuance with those elements at the front of their mind. Their success rate and the quality of the claims they obtain is consistently high – an excellent combination.”
CLIENT: Client Testimonial, Legal 500 2021
TESTIMONIAL: “We have used the services of AA Thornton for many years, and have no hesitation in recommending them to other commercial entities who have sought advice on IP or trade mark matters.”
CLIENT: Client Testimonial, Legal 500 2021
TESTIMONIAL: “A great team of specialist trade mark attorneys and practitioners. Down-to-earth, business-friendly advice from people who not only know the technicalities of trade mark law and practice here and elsewhere, but understand how trade marks work for businesses.”
CLIENT: US attorney Howard Speight
COMPANY/FIRM: Howard L. Speight, PLLC
TESTIMONIAL: “You have always been responsive, creative, technically astute, and clear in your communications. I appreciate the accuracy and organization of your emails, which make them easy to pass along to the client for review.”
CLIENT: Chambers, 2020
TESTIMONIAL: “They are really good at oppositions – they are well prepared and bring us up to speed in a clear and helpful way.”
CLIENT: Chambers, 2020
TESTIMONIAL: “(AA Thornton are) among the very best patent attorneys that I have worked with anywhere in the world.”
CLIENT: Chambers, 2020
TESTIMONIAL: “I am very impressed with their service – they are very practical, strategic and commercial.”
CLIENT: Jerry Harris, Partner
COMPANY/FIRM: Wick Phillips Gould & Martin LLP
TESTIMONIAL: “AA Thornton’s unique combination of skilled technical know-how and unquestioned legal expertise have made them my go-to European firm for over a decade.”
CLIENT: DeLaval attorney
TESTIMONIAL: “Thanks again (Adrian Bennett) for your brilliant performance today.”
CLIENT: D Calab Gabriel, Managing Partner
COMPANY/FIRM: Lex IP Care
TESTIMONIAL: “AA Thornton is my favourite and most reliable Firm in the UK. It is one of the finest IP Firms in UK”
CLIENT: General Counsel Trademarks
COMPANY/FIRM: Merck Group TESTIMONIAL: “For over a decade Ian Gill is our very reliable and trusted trademark attorney in the UK. His passion about trademark law, paired with his analytical skills, his professional excellence and his ability to step into his client’s shoes, set a new benchmark within Merck’s global network of trademark agents.”
CLIENT: Matthew Lobley, Managing Director
COMPANY/FIRM: Road Ahead (UK) Ltd TESTIMONIAL: “You (Stuart Greenwood) and your colleagues pulled a rabbit out of the hat for our Road Ahead Pot Hole Repair patent, for which I’m extremely grateful.”
CLIENT: Senior Shareholder, US Intellectual Property law firm
TESTIMONIAL: “Well done Martin [Patent Attorney Martin Hedges]!! Thanks so much for your good work on this case, and for your efforts in attending the oral proceedings and obtaining a very good outcome!”
CLIENT: Clive Menezes, Senior VP and Chief Patent Counsel
COMPANY/FIRM: Halliburton
TESTIMONIAL: “Halliburton has worked with AA Thornton & Co. for nearly 40 years, and we are delighted with the service they have provided during our many years of working together. Their expertise in the oil and gas sector has been invaluable to help us achieve our commercial objectives. Their large patents team has helped us across the broad range of different technologies we handle, and they are very approachable and commercially-minded.”
CLIENT: John Abrahams – Co founder
COMPANY/FIRM: Hiplok
TESTIMONIAL: “Establishing our intellectual property rights has been key in adding value and protecting our business since our launch in 2011. AAT has provided all the necessary professional services and support we would expect and more from such a company. As a small but fast growing business they have guided us through the often complex and subjective world of IPR. We can move forward with our business and develop new products with confidence with AAT as part of our wider team.”
CLIENT: Dr. Avraham Rutman
COMPANY/FIRM: A.J. Rutman – Patent Attorneys
TESTIMONIAL: “At the risk of repeating myself, I would like to say how impressed I was with the way you [Patent Attorney Craig Turner] handled the Opposition case – both the meticulous preparation and your outstanding advocacy skills. I hope that we will have the chance to work together on similar cases in the future (but preferably for the Opposing party). Needless to say, our client was extremely pleased with the outcome.”
CLIENT: Assistant General Counsel
COMPANY/FIRM: Multinational oil field services corporation
TESTIMONIAL: “I appreciate the extreme high caliber of work that pours forth from your offices. Despite our turning up the flow this year…., your firm keeps purring along, seemingly unchallenged by whatever we throw your way. The fine work is actually noticed, and greatly appreciated.”
CLIENT: International Intellectual Property Paralegal
COMPANY/FIRM: Mechanical beds and technologies manufacturer
TESTIMONIAL: “As I promised you at our meeting this weekend – here is a GREAT European Associate I highly recommend. I have worked with this firm many years and their services are wonderful and the prices very fair. I highly recommend the partner Adrian Bennett as he took over some of the cases we were working on with (now retired associate) Philip Curtis.”
CLIENT: Director
COMPANY/FIRM: World’s largest travel company for students and young people
TESTIMONIAL: “Vanessa Lawrence – our main point of contact is knowledgeable, approachable, friendly & extremely professional. A pleasure to work with!”
“Absolutely fantastic service with very prompt response time. All correspondence to [our company] is clear & concise.”
CLIENT: Technical Manager of UK-based engineering company
TESTIMONIAL: “Thank you too for all your hard work on our behalf. It has been a good team effort. We are delighted with the outcome.”
CLIENT: Director, Oil and Gas division, Design, engineering and project management consultancy
TESTIMONIAL: “Excellent – many thanks again for your work in getting this through. I appreciate how difficult it can be to translate ideas and convey their originality in an objective way as you do.”
CLIENT: US Attorney, Intellectual Property law firm
TESTIMONIAL: “As I’ve mentioned before, we are indeed thrilled with your firm – your service and work quality is absolutely superior to others in Europe.”
CLIENT: Leading manufacturer of high-performance power and Hall-effect sensor integrated circuits
TESTIMONIAL: “Great work” and “Thank you very much. It is a pleasure working with you [Nick South] Sir.”
CLIENT: Global pharmaceutical manufacturing company
TESTIMONIAL: “I missed the opportunity to meet you in person this time, but as I heard from my colleagues that your visit was very helpful and they had a very good interactive time with you. We really appreciate your effort to come here and meet the IP Team in person and give your valuable inputs and advice to them.”
CLIENT: Chemical producer
TESTIMONIAL: “Thank you for your analysis. This is exactly the insight that we need to enable us to formulate a response in this case.”
CLIENT: Pharmaceuticals organisation
TESTIMONIAL: “Firstly, Craig can I thank you for the support over many years!!..the service has been excellent.”
CLIENT: Certified Paralegal, Professional services firm
TESTIMONIAL: “Perfect! Thank you, Adrian – I don’t know what I would do without you, but I sure don’t want to find out!”
“Thank you, Adrian – I always know I can count on you”
CLIENT: Attorney, Multinational engineering and electronics company
TESTIMONIAL: “Thank you very much for your great efforts in this matter.”
“Many thanks for your excellent support.”
CLIENT: Patent Attorney, Intellectual Property law firm
TESTIMONIAL: “You consistently present logical and well thought out proposed responses!”
CLIENT: Patent Attorney, Intellectual Property Law firm
TESTIMONIAL: “AA Thornton is at the top of the list when it comes to entrusting cases to European associates. I look forward to being able to send another healthy work load your way this coming year.”
CLIENT: Managing Director, Manufacturer of remote controlled spotlights
TESTIMONIAL: “Many thanks for your advice which is – as always – very much appreciated” (advice on US patent)
“Thanks also for your excellent draft arguments document” (on Chinese appeal case)
CLIENT: Senior Legal Counsel, Diversified international food, ingredients and retail company
TESTIMONIAL: “Thanks Ian – a good case of value-for-money advice”.
CLIENT: Financial Controller, Leading educational publishers
TESTIMONIAL: Re: Work experience within the Trademark department with Vanessa Lawrence, Partner and Louise Foster, Trade Mark Attorney
“Just to say thank you for having Jessica for the last 3 days, it is really appreciated. She really enjoyed her time with you and found the work very interesting”.
CLIENT: Trade Mark Manager, Aerospace and defence company
TESTIMONIAL: “[Gerry] thank you for your report. We are very glad for the positive outcome of this case. Thank you for your good work”
Diversity
AA Thornton has a long established commitment to Diversity and Inclusion as one of the first signatories of the profession wide IP Inclusive Charter in 2016. Our internal mission statement is:
‘To provide a friendly, supportive and inclusive working environment that enables all staff to work to the best of their abilities’
The statement sets out the principles by which decisions about our people policies are made and underpins the expectation we have of each other in our daily interactions.
Marianne Privett, our internal Diversity & Inclusion Committee Lead, was recently named as one of WIPR’s global Diversity Champions. This recognition is a reflection of the commitment Marianne, and the partnership as whole, place on creating a diverse and inclusive working environment.
Our internal Diversity & Inclusion Committee members meet regularly to drive forward the D&I agenda and many of our colleagues play an active role in IP Inclusive projects, such as ‘Careers in Ideas’ in which we champion the improvement of access to the intellectual property professions regardless of disability, age, gender, sexual orientation or social, economic and cultural background. Marianne Privett and Karen Genuardi, Head of People, are members of the IP Ability Committee. Along with members of our own internal Diversity & Inclusion Committee, we actively encourage all of our staff to attend IP Inclusive or InterLaw events and to become an ally for all groups.
‘Bring Your Whole Self to Work’ has been an important aspect of our commitment to diversity and inclusion for several years. The firms’ leadership and management have taken deliberate actions to continue this theme during the pandemic to ensure people feel supported and included. The firm initiated a number of short surveys to understand people’s different needs, from which a number of temporary flexible policies and initiatives were put in place to facilitate individual support such as flexibility around family and caring responsibilities/logistics, providing regular guidance to managers in supporting their teams remotely, and signposting access to support when needed. A calendar of wellness and social activities were put in place to help everyone to stay connected and to support those struggling with the need to work remotely. Maintaining an environment where people feel able to bring their whole self to work and to be open and authentic, remains a key priority for the firm.
We are delighted to have supported the Sutton Trust summer school for the last two years as well as hosting work shadowing activities. It was great to see so many of our partners and fee earners getting involved in speed mentoring and networking sessions, providing insights into the careers of Trade Mark Attorneys, Patent Attorneys and IP Solicitors/Litigators. We also contributed to the Sutton Trust Careers Week in April 2021 and held a panel session on ‘Legal roles you never thought of’. Litigation Partner Geoff Hussey hosted the panel with Senior Associate Sarah Neil, representing the TM Attorney profession. We were delighted that clients Dan Caunt (Admiral) and Bill Budd (Virgin) agreed to sit alongside us on the panel. Additionally, we recently provided work experience for university students in the form of remote Insight days, which ensured the experience was accessible and flexible.