A&L Goodbody LLP’s commercial and technology team continues to lead the way when it comes to handling the full spectrum of IP matters in Ireland, acting on contentious and non-contentious mandates for a broad range of clients. The practice is led by John Whelan, who has extensive experience of handling high-profile IP disputes for technology and pharma companies. John Cahir is the go-to person for IP law matters for many domestic and international clients, while Andrew Sheridan specialises in matters related to data regulation and privacy. Other key members of the team include Chris Bollard, Mark Ellis and Aideen Burke, who joined the firm in November 2023 from LK Shields Solicitors LLP.
Intellectual property in Ireland
A&L Goodbody LLP
Practice head(s):
John Whelan
Other key lawyers:
John Cahir; Andrew Sheridan; Chris Bollard; Mark Ellis; Aideen Burke
Testimonials
‘This is a high-end team. Partner led and combining expertise with pragmatism.’
‘Mark Ellis is excellent – a clear thinker who combines practical expertise with a listening ear and an understanding of client commercial aims.’
Key clients
Diesel
Vertex Inc
Amgen Inc
Abbott Laboratories
Bold Limited
Eircom Limited (eir)
ABC Fitness Solutions
Premier Sports
GlobalLogic
Work highlights
- Advised Amgen Inc on the defence of preliminary injunction proceedings regarding alleged patent infringement.
- Represented Vertex Incorporated, Lindelauf Consultancy BV and Roger Lindelauf in complex High Court proceedings initiated by Meridian Global VAT Services Limited involving the alleged misappropriation of intellectual property.
- Advised Diesel SpA on its trade mark dispute with Montex Holdings Limited, concerning ownership of the ‘Diesel’ mark.
Mason Hayes & Curran LLP
Mason Hayes & Curran LLP handles the full range of contentious and non-contentious IP matters for clients from a wide range of sectors, including pharmaceuticals, retail, IT, financial services, and entertainment. Key services include advice on registering trade marks, IP litigation, and management of IP portfolios. The practice is led by litigation expert Gerard Kelly, who regularly represents clients in high-profile IP litigation before all levels of the Irish courts. Hazel McDwyer is a recognised IP rights practitioner who regularly assists clients with matters related to brand protection and patent infringement. Other key contacts include Eimear O’Brien, Jane Bourke, and John Milligan.
Practice head(s):
Gerard Kelly
Other key lawyers:
Hazel McDwyer; John Milligan; Ciara Browne; Eimear O’Brien; Jane Bourke
Testimonials
‘Hazel McDwyer is a standout – extremely responsive, hard-working, commercial and has a good understanding of our sector and business environment.’
‘Clear, knowledgeable and efficient trade mark experts. A very safe set of hands.’
‘Hazel McDwyer is a very knowledgeable trade mark expert. She is responsive, concise and clear. We have no hesitation in trusting Hazel with our trade mark prosecution work in Europe.’
‘MHC are a delight to work with on IP matters. They are experts in their field, extremely responsive and achieve the desired results for us and our clients. They are my go-to firm in Ireland for IP matters.’
‘Gerard Kelly leads an excellent team.’
‘Gerard Kelly is very impressive. Very intelligent and a true expert across all IP rights. John Milligan has what exactly you need from outside counsel – fast, responsive and pragmatic.’
Key clients
Meridian Global VAT Services Limited
SIS Media Limited
Novartis Pharma AG
Neuraxpharm Ireland and Laboratorios Lesvi SLU
Sandoz AG
Ashbourne Visitor Centre Limited
Glenveagh Properties plc
Monster Energy Company
MD Orthopaedics, Inc.
Kinzen Limited
Powercut Clothing Limited
Cult Drinks
Biohaven Pharmaceuticals
Work highlights
- Represented Meridian in complex Commercial Court proceedings related to breach of confidence.
- Represented SIS in Commercial Court proceedings against two individuals for infringement of the client’s copyright in its broadcasts.
- Assisted Monster Energy Group with the maintenance and management of its global trade mark portfolio, including brand enforcement and opposition procedures.
McCann FitzGerald LLP
McCann FitzGerald LLP undertakes IP law mandates for a variety of domestic and international clients, with particular expertise in the life sciences, IT, and retail sectors. Contentious IP practice head Fiona O’Beirne has significant experience of litigation related to trade marks and infringement and works closely with patent disputes expert Shane O’Brien. Paul Lavery, the head of the non-contentious IP practice, regularly advises on technology, outsourcing, naming rights, and confidentiality matters, with strong support from Adam Finlay, who specialises in the drafting and negotiation of commercial agreements related to the ownership and use of intellectual property. Eoin Martyn is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Fiona O’Beirne; Paul Lavery
Other key lawyers:
Shane O’Brien; Adam Finlay; Eoin Martyn
Testimonials
‘Sophistication in patents and industry sectors. They are team players and easy to work with as part of an international team.’
Key clients
Bristol Myers Squibb
Biogen
Pfizer
Magnostics Limited
PM Group
Navi Group
Panda Waste
BidX1
Canada Life
National University of Ireland, Maynooth
Health Research Board
Science Foundation Ireland
National Transport Authority
Work highlights
- Represented BMS in the defence of a Commercial Court patent/SPC revocation action brought by Norton (Waterford) Limited t/a Teva Pharmaceuticals Ireland.
- Represented Biogen in Commercial Court patent proceedings against Neuraxpharm.
- Represented Pfizer in Commercial Court patent proceedings commenced by ModernaTX Inc. relating to Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid-19 vaccine, Comirnaty®.
Whitney Moore
Whitney Moore continues to maintain its strong presence in the full range of contentious intellectual property affairs, representing clients in trade mark and copyright infringement claims, as well as patent litigation. Practice head Robin Hayes has built an impressive reputation for handling contentious trade mark cases and regularly represents clients from a broad array of sectors, including manufacturing, sports, technology, and pharmaceuticals, in domestic and cross-border litigation proceedings before the Irish courts.
Practice head(s):
Robin Hayes
Testimonials
‘Excellent knowledge and expertise in all aspects of trade mark law, including contentious matters.’
‘Robin Hayes provides expert advice in complicated cross-border infringement matters. He gives great attention to detail and maintains a high service level, including accessibility.’
‘Agile and efficient. A nice-sized team with good collaborating abilities that could bring on additional resources when needed. Hardworking, very responsive and highly organized. Focused on what is important and got there quickly. Trustworthy.’
‘I found Robin Hayes trustworthy, hardworking, responsive, highly organized, patient and understanding when needed. He is thorough and very knowledgeable in his work. He communicated each step, option, and recommendation. He arranged the relevant resources when needed. I would fully recommend Robin.’
Key clients
WaterWipes UC
Securitas AB
Nike
Peregrine Technologies (Holdings) Ltd
Cannon Tools Ltd
Shamrock Gift Company
Work highlights
- Represented WaterWipes UC in a trade mark infringement action against Waterful Ltd.
- Represented Securitas AB in trade mark infringement proceedings against DKSU4Securitas Ltd relating to the defendant’s use of the name “4Securitas”.
- Represented Peregrine Technologies (Holdings) Ltd in patent revocation proceedings against the University of Limerick.
William Fry LLP
The sizeable team at William Fry LLP has a strong IP practice, with particular expertise in contentious matters, where it assists high-profile technology, pharma, and FMCG clients with matters related to the infringement of trade marks, copyright, and patents. The firm also has a significant non-contentious practice, advising on the protection and exploitation of IP rights, multi-jurisdictional patents, and the management of trade mark portfolios. Laura Scott heads the firm’s contentious IP practice and regularly handles large-scale litigation before the Irish Commercial Court, while Leo Moore leads the non-contentious practice and assists clients with brand protection strategies. David Cullen, Charleen O’Keeffe, and Colette Brady are other key members of the team.
Practice head(s):
Leo Moore; Laura Scott
Other key lawyers:
David Cullen; Charleen O’Keeffe; Colette Brady
Testimonials
‘The team are extremely commercial in their approach to intellectual property law and litigation and strategic in their thinking. They understand the client’s approach to matters, not just legally.’
‘Charleen O’Keeffe and Colette Brady are both excellent and very commercial in their advice.’
‘The William Fry IP team is as strong as it gets, not just in Ireland, but in most jurisdictions where I have IP needs. Leo Moore and Laura Scott’s team has the strength in depth to handle the most complex of matters with aplomb. Most importantly, we use this firm because of the trust we have in Leo to deliver high-quality insights and guidance on complex and strategically important matters.’
‘Leo Moore is my go-to lawyer for trade mark and IP matters in Ireland. He is astute, commercially minded and results-focused.’
‘Laura Scott is a great litigator with a sharp, strategic mind. She fights hard for her clients.’
‘Leo Moore is our key contact in William Fry. As well as being a pleasure to work with, we find Leo to be practical, astute and commercial; he will address simple and complex matters with the required level of sophistication to meet client needs – this goes for the wider William Fry team too.’
‘We rate Leo Moore and the team for their commercial awareness and application, and our clients likewise appreciate their input for this reason. Service levels and responsiveness are second to none.’
‘Laura Scott and Leo Moore are brilliant. Together, their litigation and transactional skills mean they can cover all angles of IP, and I would not hesitate to recommend them, including for the most complex and high-value matters.’
Key clients
Diageo
Valeo Food Groups
X-Celeprint
CISAC
Tines
Eli Lilly
AstraZeneca
Skyscanner
UKG
Work highlights
- Advised Diageo on a wide variety of intellectual property matters, including management of its trade mark portfolio, new product launches, and comparative advertising and regulatory queries.
- Represented Eli Lilly in various contentious IP matters, including Commercial Court proceedings for the revocation of a patent held by Novartis Pharma AG.
- Represented Skyscanner in Commercial Court proceedings brought by Ryanair.
Arthur Cox
The intellectual property team at Arthur Cox works closely with the firm’s tax and corporate departments to provide holistic advice on all contentious and non-contentious matters related to IP law. Key areas of strength include handling complex IP litigation and the commercialisation of IP assets for both domestic and international clients from a broad spectrum of sectors, including technology, FMCG, fashion, and retail. Olivia Mullooly heads the practice and regularly advises on the protection, development and exploitation of IP rights, as well as data protection compliance and commercial contracts. Keith Smith and Naoise Cosgrove assist with matters related to IP litigation.
Practice head(s):
Olivia Mullooly
Other key lawyers:
Keith Smith; Naoise Cosgrove; Alison Peate
Testimonials
‘The team are subject matter experts with a pragmatic approach.’
‘Arthur Cox has provided excellent service. We have appreciated their dedication, patience and professional advice, which has spanned several categories of expertise.’
‘The qualities which stand out for us and which we value include: exemplary knowledge, a measured approach which has been very reassuring for us throughout complex discussions, the ability to represent us professionally and enduring support for our work.’
‘Arthur Cox has experts across a vast breadth of subjects, and these experts work well together to ensure optimal outcomes for their clients.’
‘Olivia Mullooly is extremely approachable and is always happy to discuss complex issues. She is exceptional in identifying potential problems, with an outstanding ability to present a range of solutions to any such issues, enabling clients to follow the optimum path for their business situation.’
‘Olivia Mullooly is a hands-on partner. Her support and guidance on matters, along with her wide-ranging expertise, is very much valued. I really feel that she has our back in negotiations, and is not afraid to hold a steady line where needed. She very much is a trusted advisor.’
Key clients
Johnson and Johnson
Meta
Kerry Group
Ryanair
Origin Enterprises plc
Glanbia Plc
Foundry Innovation and Research 1, Limited
Flutter Entertainment
Trinity College Dublin
Spotify
Irish Hospice Foundation
Work highlights
- Advised Kerry Group on the IP aspects of transactional matters.
- Represented Meta in Irish High Court proceedings brought by a Qatari billionaire and head of the Al Mana group, Wissam Al Mana, regarding alleged fake advertisements appearing on the Facebook platform using his name and image to promote a Bitcoin-related product.
- Advised the Irish Hospice Foundation on the IP issues surrounding the relaunch of the ‘Peter and the Wolf’ project.
DFMG Solicitors
DFMG Solicitors continues to handle intellectual property matters for a diverse set of clients from multiple sectors, including pharmaceuticals, retail, financial services, manufacturing, FMCG, technology and sports. Renowned for its robust contentious practice, the firm guides clients through litigation arising from patent, trade mark, and copyright infringement. On the non-contentious side, the team advises on the registration of trade marks, licensing, data protection, technology agreements, and the IP aspects of employment law. Patricia McGovern heads the practice and has extensive experience of managing complex trade mark portfolios and the enforcement of intellectual property rights.
Practice head(s):
Patricia McGovern
Testimonials
‘The team is highly knowledgeable, proactive and delivers practical advice, often at short notice. All are friendly and approachable.’
‘Extremely efficient and quick to respond, and it is a pleasure to work with all the team members.’
‘Patricia McGovern has such a wealth and depth of IP experience that she can assist all potential clients on their IP issues. Her practical approach and willingness to listen to client concerns means that she and her team are well placed to implement the solution agreed to, and their efficient organizational structures and skills mean that instructions are acted on promptly, efficiently and cost-effectively.’
Key clients
IKEA
BMW
Promat
Reach
Gilead
Playboy
The North Face
Tony Quinn
Phillip Morris
Ferring
Work highlights
- Assisted Gilead Sciences Inc. with its IP portfolio in Ireland and the EU, which involves the prosecution of applications and dealing with oppositions and other challenges.
- Assisted Promat/Etex with its IP portfolio in Ireland, which involves brand clearance, the prosecution of applications, dealing with challenges and the enforcement of intellectual property rights against infringing third parties.
Matheson LLP
Situated within Matheson LLP‘s technology and innovation group, the intellectual property team collaborates closely with the firm’s litigation group, delivering extensive advice on contentious issues stemming from patent infringement, counterfeiting, and content liability. In addition to this, the team is highly active on the non-contentious front and advises domestic and international clients on Irish IP documentation, IP rights, brand protection, trade marks, and IP-related due diligence. Practice head Anne-Marie Bohan has a strong focus on the management, commercialisation, and licensing of intellectual property, with continuous support from Nicola Dunleavy and Carlo Salizzo.
Practice head(s):
Anne-Marie Bohan
Other key lawyers:
Nicola Dunleavy; Carlo Salizzo
Key clients
FBG Enterprises Opco, LLC
Microsoft
Meta
Waterwipes
Allied Irish Banks
Acuatus
Acuatus is a boutique intellectual property law firm that acts for a variety of domestic and international clients and offers specialist advice on the full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious IP matters. The practice is led by Alistair Payne, who regularly handles litigation arising from patent and trade mark infringement and assists clients with setting up copyright and trade mark portfolios.
Practice head(s):
Alistair Payne
Testimonials
‘My contact is very knowledgable and very responsive to queries.’
‘Alistair Payne has a good knowledge of our business and gives good guidance about which potential intellectual property breaches to challenge and those that are unlikely to result in a successful challenge.’
Key clients
Ogalas Unlimited
Groupe Danone
Viatris
Red Bull
Welltel Group
Teagasc – The Agriculture and Food Development Authority
Lambay Whiskey Company
Intel
UEFA
DB Games Technologies Limited
Healthy Place To Work Limited
Work highlights
- Represented Viatris/Mylan in pharmaceutical patent litigation in the Commercial Court division of the High Court in relation to infringement claims by Merck Sharp & Dohme.
- Represented Viatris/Mylan in pharmaceutical patent litigation in the Commercial Court division of the High Court in relation to infringement claims by Novartis.
- Represented UEFA in its successful application to the High Court for renewal of the dynamic blocking orders previously made against major internet service providers in Ireland.
Beauchamps LLP
The technology and intellectual property team at Beauchamps LLP advises clients on the full spectrum of intellectual property matters, including filing strategies, the commercialisation, and licensing of IP, and the management of IP portfolios. Other key services include IP-related due diligence and representing clients before the Intellectual Property Office of Ireland and the European Union Intellectual Property Office. Edward Evans brings notable expertise in supporting clients within the sports industry, focusing on licensing agreements and the safeguarding and exploitation of IP rights, while Paul Gough specialises in advising employers on the intellectual property clauses of employment contracts. Damian Maloney is another key contact.
Other key lawyers:
Edward Evans; Paul Gough; Damian Maloney
Testimonials
‘I think the team was professional, very experienced, solutions driven, good value for money, very responsive and ultimately delivered a good outcome that we were very happy with under a severe time constraint.’
‘Very responsive, solution led, able to decant complex issues into easy-to-understand language. Took responsibility for leading the engagement from start to finish and ultimately delivered more than we expected.’
‘Partner-led advice at all times.’
‘Available and always supportive of our typically urgent advice requirements.’
Key clients
The Football Association Premier League Limited
On The Beach Limited
Triviumvet DAC
Secondo Piano SRL
Ginos Gelato
Pret a Manger
Mapaex Consumer Healthcare Private Ltd
In the Company of Huskies (F&B Huskies)
The Arts Council
Studio Pilates International Pty Ltd as trustee for The Studio Pilates IP Trust
Avista
KARE
Rehab Group
The Mental Health Commission
Food Safety Authority of Ireland
National Library of Ireland
Pobal
TU Dublin
Central Statistics Office
Tailte Éireann
Health Information and Quality Authority
IDA Ireland
Tusla
Barnardos
Work highlights
- Advised the Arts Council on all intellectual property-related matters, such as protection of IP rights in commercial agreements entered into by the Arts Council with third parties.
- Advised Mapaex Consumer Healthcare Private Limited on the protection of its brand not only in Europe but also internationally.
- Represented On The Beach in High Court litigation instituted by Ryanair claiming, amongst others, trade mark, copyright and database rights infringement.
Eversheds Sutherland
Eversheds Sutherland LLP‘s intellectual property, technology, and data protection team delivers comprehensive advice on the complete lifecycle of intellectual property, spanning creation, exploitation, protection, and defence. The team advises clients from a broad range of sectors, including technology, FMCG, pharmaceuticals, financial services, and education. Marie McGinley heads the practice, while other key contacts include Peter O’Neill and Ellie Cater.
Practice head(s):
Marie McGinley
Other key lawyers:
Peter O’Neill; Ellie Cater
Testimonials
‘Market knowledge, technical know-how, availability.’
‘Responsive and technical.’
‘The IP department at this firm is exemplary, uniquely blending traditional legal acumen with a modern, forward-thinking approach. They anticipate trends, acting preemptively and ensuring clients always have an edge. Unlike many firms, they proactively integrate the latest technologies, optimising research and client interactions. Their transparent billing is refreshingly client-centric.’
‘I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with many legal professionals, and the IP team at Eversheds Sutherland stand out for their expertise and dedication.’
‘Marie McGinley seamlessly blends profound knowledge with strategic insights, making complex issues feel manageable. What sets her apart is her foresight into her fields and her genuine client-centric approach. Even as she leads in her specialties, Marie’s interpersonal skills ensure a partnership rooted in trust and clarity. When looking for a blend of expertise and genuine client care, Marie and her team are unparalleled.’
Key clients
T5 Data Centres
Synch Payments Dac
Clanwilliam Headquarters Limited, the Clanwilliam Group
BearingPoint
Musgrave Group
Arachas Corporate Brokers Limited
The Shareholders of National Organic 160 Products Limited
Telligent Holdings Limited
Educational Research Centre
Sunlife Financial Canada
Aspen Pharma
National Council for Special Education
Yellow Film & TV Oy
Momentive AI
CyrusOne
Glen Dimplex
Tetrarch Capital Limited
Signify Health Inc
Goffs Bloodstocks Sales Limited
Eaton
E-Shopworld Ascendia
Castlegate Investments Limited
Dukes Education Group
Waterful Limited
Autoaddress
Work highlights
- Represented Synch Payments DAC with the IP issues related to the development and launch of an interbank mobile payments solution on the Irish market.
- Assisted E-ShopWorld Ascendia with the IP aspects of a corporate transaction where ESW acquired Los Angeles-based Scalefast.
- Advised Dukes Education Group on the IP aspects of a transaction whereby Dukes Education Group acquired the Institute of Education.
Pinsent Masons LLP
Pinsent Masons LLP’s intellectual property team stands out for its strong patent litigation practice, assisting major Irish clients with proceedings arising from patent revocation and infringement, with specific expertise in the pharmaceuticals sector. The team also provides comprehensive advice on the registration and enforcement of trade marks and the exploitation of IP through licensing and franchising. Practice head Karen Gallagher specialises in contentious IP matters and regularly represents clients before the Irish courts. The team was further strengthened by the arrival of Maureen Daly from Beauchamps LLP in November 2023.
Practice head(s):
Karen Gallagher
Other key lawyers:
Maureen Daly
Testimonials
‘The Pinsent Masons Ireland team is highly knowledgeable and experienced in intellectual property. There is impressive attention to detail and dedication to ongoing education and learning about the most current developments in the area, domestically and internationally, through their global and tightly-knit network of legal experts. They have an insight into the needs of their clients across many jurisdictions and a coherent and skilled approach to meeting them.’
‘Karen Gallagher is highly knowledgeable and experienced in patent litigation. She brings an innovative and energetic perspective to patent disputes and is extremely hard-working. She is very focussed on the needs of clients and solutions to meet them.’
‘Pinsents are heavyweight litigators for the high-value and complex patent litigation in Dublin.’
Key clients
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited
Norton (Waterford) Limited
Accord Healthcare S.L.U
Accord Healthcare Ireland Limited
Capita Business Support Services Ireland Limited
Flogas Ireland Limited
Aviareto Limited
DCC Energy Limited
Thomas Tunnock Limited
Black Insomnia Coffee Company
Work highlights
- Represented Teva in relation to two sets of patent and SPC revocation proceedings issued against Bristol-Myers Squibb Ireland Unlimited Company and Pfizer Inc.
- Represented Accord in the defence of patent infringement proceedings brought by Novartis in relation to two European patents.
- Advised Teva on landmark patent revocation proceedings against Boehringer Ingelheim in respect of the patent for the drug Tiotropium, which treats asthma and COPD.
Addleshaw Goddard
The intellectual property team at Addleshaw Goddard works with a multitude of domestic and international clients on IP matters, with particular expertise in the management of trade mark portfolios. David Hackett heads the practice and regularly offers advice on trade mark issues, along with data protection and privacy law, while Jane Farren handles a variety of contentious and non-contentious IP matters and specialises in domain names, designs, and patents.
Practice head(s):
David Hackett
Other key lawyers:
Jane Farren
Testimonials
‘The team is very well led and quickly identifies the issue at hand and provides an appropriate solution or choice of solutions.’
‘We can contact people without difficulty, and there is always a familiarity with our cases. All the team members are exceptionally competent in their manner and dealings with us. We feel our best interests are constantly being met.’
Key clients
Digital Manufacturing Ireland CLG
Johnson & Johnson Group
BMW Ireland
Electrolux
Belron/Allglass
British Sky Broadcasting Group plc
Vodafone Ireland
Virgin Media
Irish Hospice Foundation
P J Rigney Distillery and International Brands Limited/Gunpowder Irish Gin
Dawn Farm Foods Limited
Glenisk Limited
Boodles
GPS Insight
NDC Media
Connemara Biomedical Holdings
Aerospace Software Developments
Q Park
Walsh Whiskey Distillery
Golden Pages
B Braun
Suicide or Survive
Gael Linn
Harvey Norman Trading (Ireland) Limited
Bath Fitter, Inc
Darker Still Spirits Company
Planet Virtue Limited
Instavolt
Kepak Group
Rosderra Limited
Sunkist Growers
Pest Pulse Limited
Society for Chartered Surveyors Ireland
Marks & Spencer
Pestle & Mortar
Applegreen/Petrogas
Cilag GMBH International
Ask 4 Broadband
Tifco Hotel Group
Work highlights
- Advised DMI on a number of novel intellectual property licensing arrangements, including research and development collaboration agreements and intellectual property sharing arrangements under the Creative Commons licensing system.
- Advised Sky on an ongoing basis with respect to its strategy and enforcement and protection of its copyright in commercial sports broadcasts.
- Advised Johnson & Johnson on an ongoing basis on all trade mark issues in Ireland and the EU, including trade mark registrations, trade mark searches, assignments and licensing arrangements.
Browne Jacobson Ireland LLP
Browne Jacobson Ireland LLP has a full-service intellectual property practice, advising clients on IP management and risks, licensing structures, and the review of IP contracts. Ciarán Markey specialises in IP and competition law disputes and heads the contentious side of the practice, while Jeanne Kelly takes the lead on the non-contentious side and has extensive experience of handling outsourcing projects and intellectual asset management.
Practice head(s):
Ciarán Markey; Jeanne Kelly
Key clients
Platt and Reilly
Hatched
Beach Hut
Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland
RS Group plc
ByrneWallace LLP
ByrneWallace LLP’s intellectual property team boasts significant expertise in contentious IP matters, regularly representing clients in trade mark and copyright litigation before the Commercial Court. In addition to this, the team has an enviable non-contentious offering, advising both private and public sector clients on design protection, IP commercialisation, and due diligence. The practice is led by the duo of life sciences expert Colin Sainsbury and Mark O’Shaughnessy, who specialises in IP disputes. Victor Timon and Catherine Dowling are also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Colin Sainsbury; Mark O’Shaughnessy
Other key lawyers:
Catherine Dowling; Victor Timon
Testimonials
‘The practice provides a good breadth of legal services with good connectivity across the teams.’
‘Colin Sainsbury has excellent problem-solving abilities.’
‘The firm stands out for me due to its exceptional responsiveness and acute sensitivity to the diverse needs of stakeholders within intricate commercial landscapes, particularly in the realm of patent litigation. What sets Byrne Wallace apart is their ability to swiftly adapt and respond to the dynamic and often complex demands of the legal environment, ensuring that they remain ahead of the curve. They place a premium on understanding and addressing the interests of various stakeholders involved, deftly navigating the intricate web of concerns that arise in these high-stakes situations.’
‘Mark O’Shaughnessy and Catherine Dowling stand out for me. They are able to pick up the details and see through the forest of information to target the commercial outcomes for clients.’
Key clients
Xeolas Pharmaceuticals Limited
Avectas Limited
Warburton Technology Limited
Kora Healthcare
Versono Medical Limited
Prodig Attachments Limited
DLA Piper Ireland LLP
DLA Piper Ireland LLP relies on its global presence to assist clients with intellectual property and patent matters around the world. The team was strengthened in May 2023 by the arrival of Aoife Murphy from Whitney Moore; Murphy specialises in multi-jurisdictional patent disputes and jointly heads the team with financial services expert Mark Rasdale and experienced technology practitioner John Magee, who regularly advises on trade mark and copyright licensing. Gavin Woods has extensive expertise in contentious patent, copyright and trade mark matters, including claims of infringement.
Practice head(s):
Mark Rasdale; John Magee; Aoife Murphy
Other key lawyers:
Gavin Woods
Testimonials
‘Aoife Murphy is probably the most experienced patent litigation solicitor. Her knowledge of the Irish bench gives her an outstanding ability to predict outcomes and win arguments, even when dealing with novel challenges. She manages a team extremely well, with attention to detail. She is always calm with an instinctive feel for the outcome. Overseas clients, in particular, soon realise they are in safe hands with this team.’
‘Aoife Murphy is outstanding.’
‘Aoife Murphy is a great solicitor. Knowledgeable, practical, hard-working.’
‘Vast experience in the life sciences patent and SPC litigation field.’
‘Aoife Murphy’s practical advice and initiative ensures that we and our clients always remain several steps ahead of competitors.’
‘The team stands out for its thought leadership, quality of engagement and a near-unique ability to bridge the significant gap between legal and business language. They are very comfortable with technology and are strong collaborators.’
‘John Magee stands out for his subject matter expertise and strategic direction, and Conor McEneaney for his attention to detail, SME expertise and ability to branch legal and business language.’
Key clients
BioNTech manufacturing GmbH
Janssen Biotech Inc
Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
Novartis AG
Resmed
Yes
Dr Seuss Enterprises LP
Amnesty International
KPMG
Premier League
HoneyWell
McDonalds
Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Limited
Nordic Unmanned AS
Medtronic
Work highlights
- Acted for Janssen Biotech Inc. in preliminary injunction and infringement proceedings before the Commercial Court brought against Amgen in relation to the client’s Stelara medicine.
- Represented BioNTech in patent infringement proceedings brought by Moderna against both BioNTech and Pfizer relating to the alleged infringement of two patents relating to mRNA technology.
- Represented Novartis AG in two sets of patent infringement proceedings relating to its blockbuster medication Gilenya (fingolimod), a medication used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis.
Flynn O'Driscoll
Flynn O'Driscoll’s data privacy and intellectual property practice has built a strong presence in the technology sector, assisting clients with the drafting of agreements related to the development, ownership, protection, and licensing of intellectual property. The practice is led by Laura Myles, who regularly advises on the acquisition, management, and enforcement of IP rights. Hannah Lynch is another key contact.
Practice head(s):
Laura Myles
Other key lawyers:
Hannah Lynch
Testimonials
‘The team is very professional, fast-moving and easy to work with.’
‘Laura Myles has the amazing ability to communicate along with delivering. She is always extremely professional, clearly very dedicated to her clients and very easy to work with.’
‘Great diversity of individuals in terms of experience and knowledge. Pragmatic, knowledgeable and very personable. An excellent partner for our company.’
‘Laura Myles is an excellent lawyer with great attention to detail. An absolute standout individual in terms of negotiations – easily the best I’ve ever worked with in this regard.’
Hayes Solicitors LLP
The intellectual property team at Hayes Solicitors LLP continues to work on complex and high-value IP matters, with notable expertise in the sports, media and advertising sectors. Renowned as a trade mark expert, practice head David Phelan provides comprehensive advice on a broad spectrum of both contentious and non-contentious IP issues. The duo of Jeremy Erwin and Laura Fannin regularly assists clients with trade mark registration and IP protection in Ireland, while Matthew Austin specialises in matters related to online and digital copyright licensing. The team is further strengthened by the expertise of IP rights specialist Cian Clinch.
Practice head(s):
David Phelan
Other key lawyers:
Jeremy Erwin; Laura Fannin; Matthew Austin; Cian Clinch
Key clients
Primark
Unilever
The Irish Times
Ogilvy
NK Management
Technopath Clinical Diagnostics
IIU
United Biscuits
TBWA Dublin
TK Maxx
In The Company of Huskies
Steelworks Investments LLC
Publicis
Institute of Advertising Practitioners in Ireland
Vision Consulting
Boys & Girls
Newspaper Licensing Ireland
The Irish Cancer Society
Society of the Irish Motor Industry
The Association of Promotional Marketing Consultants in Ireland
Public House
Simmons & Simmons
CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang LLP
Nestlé
Pepsi
Work highlights
- Advised Primark on contentious and non-contentious intellectual property issues.
- Advised NK Management on image rights, performance rights, programme content, copyright, trade marks and inventions.
- Advised The Irish Times on a wide range of intellectual property matters.
LK Shields Solicitors LLP
The intellectual property, technology and data privacy team at LK Shields Solicitors LLP offers comprehensive advice on all contentious and non-contentious aspects of IP rights. In addition to offering strategic guidance on brand protection, the team also represents clients before the Irish and EU Intellectual Property Offices. Recently promoted partner Jane O’Grady, who is dual qualified as a trade mark and design attorney, has extensive experience of advising clients on the exploitation and commercialisation of intellectual property.
Other key lawyers:
Jane O’Grady
Testimonials
‘The team was exceptionally helpful in outlining the risks associated with intellectual property, and the ownership and purchase of the same. The team helped us work through different opportunities to mitigate risk.’
‘Everyone we worked with in LK Shields was knowledgable, friendly, flexible with scheduling and just overall extremely helpful in guiding us through the asset purchase process.’
‘They are always very prompt in actioning our requests – all emails get answered the same day we send them. Their emails are always very clear and easy to read and understand.’
Key clients
Aine Russell
Centric Health
Pitchway Limited
Starbucks Corporation
MartEye Limited
FLAG Taxis Limited
Process Automation Solutions GmbH
Work highlights
- Advised Aine Russell, an independent childcare provider in Ireland, on the sale of the Irish registered trade mark “BUSY BEES”.
- Advised Centric Health on the IP aspects of the services agreements for a new corporate joint venture, Carepath Connect DAC, with Irish Life.
- Advised Pitchway Limited on its acquisition of the intellectual property rights related to the products and branding of Cleverfoods Limited.
RDJ LLP
RDJ LLP advises a broad spectrum of domestic and international clients on the acquisition and commercialisation of intellectual property in Ireland. The non-contentious IP practice is led by Diarmaid Gavin, who boasts considerable expertise in knowledge transfer, collaborative research, and IP licensing matters, while the contentious practice is led by litigation expert Darryl Broderick, who specialises in media and IP disputes. Other key members include Marie Gavin, Elena Vassileva, and Stephanie Coughlan.
Practice head(s):
Diarmaid Gavin; Darryl Broderick
Other key lawyers:
Marie Gavin; Elena Vassileva; Stephanie Coughlan
Testimonials
‘Diarmaid Gavin has worked with us since our company’s early days. My dealings with him have been so perfect that it is difficult to find any area for improvement. He understands our business so well, which is not an easy task. Diarmaid is a great partner for us.’
‘Very good team. Prompt and efficient.’
‘The practice can understand the specific circumstances of our business and the unique needs of our operations. While we have a primary contact, the firm spreads the work across several legal advisors, which enables the firm to be responsive.’
‘Diarmaid Gavin has a great breadth of knowledge relevant to our business needs. This ranges across contract law, IP law, competition law, and state aid regulations. These are all relevant to our day-to-day operations, and getting all this advice from one source brings great insights for us.’
‘Diarmaid Gavin is very easy to contact and makes himself available at short notice, which is greatly appreciated as turnaround time for queries is quite important.’
Key clients
University of Limerick
Wissam Al Mana
PBC Biomed
Dublin City University
University College Dublin
Trinity College Dublin
University of Galway
Teagasc – The Agriculture and Food Development Authority
Nova Mentis/Bioplastech
Mater Misericordiae University Hospital