Twitter Logo Youtube Circle Icon LinkedIn Icon

The Legal 500 Hall of Fame Icon The Legal 500 Hall of Fame highlights individuals who have received constant praise by their clients for continued excellence. The Hall of Fame highlights, to clients, the law firm partners who are at the pinnacle of the profession. In the United Kingdon, the criteria for entry is to have been recognised by The Legal 500 as one of the elite leading lawyers for eight years. These partners are highlighted below and throughout the editorial.
Click here for more details

United Kingdom > Yorkshire and the Humber > TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property > Law firm and leading lawyer rankings

Editorial

Other

All countries

Index of tables

  1. Intellectual property
  2. Leading individuals
  3. Next Generation Partners
  4. Rising stars

Next Generation Partners

  1. 1

Rising stars

  1. 1

DLA Piper UK LLP's Yorkshire-based intellectual property practice has capabilities in contentious and non-contentious matters including licensing transactions, patent and trade mark litigation, pan-European anti-counterfeiting seizures and actions, and the coordination of international disputes. It is instructed by a range of clients from household-name brands to medical diagnostics companies. The group is jointly led by the 'efficient' Leigh Martin and Richard Taylor from Leeds and Sheffield respectively; Martin focuses on trade mark and design strategy while Taylor handles a range of IP transactions and disputes. Legal director Rebecca Piper also has a broad practice which includes handling litigation and advising on IP issues arising out of corporate transactions.

Practice head(s):Leigh Martin; Richard Taylor

Other key lawyers:Rebecca Piper

Testimonials

'DLA Piper UK LLP's IP team in Leeds is of the highest quality, and provides as good a service as you will get from any London group of IP practitioners.'

'The Yorkshire intellectual property team at DLA Piper UK LLP is commercially aware and fights hard for the commercial interests of its clients.'

'Leigh Martin is a very effective operator who always has the commercial goals of his clients in mind. He is always on top of the factual, commercial and legal issues facing his clients.'

'Leeds-based Aaron Treble is an experienced and talented senior associate who carries the client's needs forward in an expert and efficient manner.'

Key Clients

GE Healthcare

Spin Master

ICNARC

Heineken

The University of Sheffield

Portakabin

Ardagh

National Churches Trust

Solvay

Republic Technologies International

Victoria Plum

Downing Construction

Work highlights

  • Acted for GE Healthcare in IP licensing matters relating to outsourcing the manufacturing and distribution of core nuclear diagnostic equipment, which involved difficult issues of trade mark licensing and patents.
  • Advising Heineken on its entire trade mark portfolio, all brand and trade mark disputes and other IP advice.
  • Assisting Portakabin with an enforcement and education programme to protect its valuable Portakabin, Portaloo and Portasilo trade marks from infringement and misuse by third parties.
  • Acting for the University of Sheffield in a major campaign to refresh the University's entire global trade mark portfolio.
  • Advising Solvay on patent, know-how and trade mark licensing from Accsys.

Intellectual property specialist firm Haseltine Lake Kempner LLP  assists its impressive client roster of UK and international companies with a full range of instructions from protection, exploitation, enforcement and defence of rights. It is frequently instructed by well-known brands across the retail, fashion, food and technology sectors. Practice head Richard Kempner and managing partner Jason Dainty handle a  broad range of contentious and non-contentious work, while Martin Delafaille has particular expertise advising brand owners on the registration and exploitation of their trade marks and designs. Matthew Sammon opened his own IP firm, Sonder IP.

Practice head(s):Richard Kempner

Other key lawyers:Jason Dainty; Martin Delafaille

Testimonials

'Haseltine Lake Kempner LLP    is very responsive, cost effective and commercial.'

'Richard Kempner commands a lot of respect and has an impressive client list and practice.'

Key Clients

Tesco

Beam Suntory

Pathway

Versace

Armani

BASF

Netsweeper

Mamas & Papas

Nomad

VIP Systems

Work highlights

  • Manages Tesco's trade mark portfolio of over 3000 rights and a large number of ongoing disputes.
  • Acts as exclusive UK counsel for Beam Suntory for trade mark portfolio and enforcement work.
  • Acting for Gianni Versace and Versace UK in a claim brought by No Fixed Abode.
  • Acting for BASF in passing off litigation brought against Harvest Agrochemicals relating to an agricultural herbicide product that is selling under a parallel trade permit.
  • Defending Netsweeper in a claim brought by a former employee alleging entitlement to a family of patents, which protect one of Netsweeper’s key technologies.

Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP recently strengthened its practice with the acquisition of intellectual property boutique James Love Legal. The group combines the practices' impressive client rosters and breadth of capabilities across the full range of contentious and non-contentious matters with Womble Bond Dickinson's transatlantic presence. Patrick Cantrill heads up the practice which includes Rachel Hearson, who also leads the firm's national trade mark and design rights group, and benefits from the addition of the 'well-regarded' James Love, who has broad experience in complex IP litigation.

Practice head(s):Patrick Cantrill

Other key lawyers:Rachael Hearson; James Love

Testimonials

'Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP's IP practice includes a mixed team of solicitors and trade mark attorneys, which allows it to advise more broadly and strategically on complex trade mark disputes.'

'Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP has a very responsive and balanced intellectual property team.'

'Patrick Cantrill is a very good litigator.'

'Managing associate Rachel Hearson is technically strong and very responsive, being available at short notice.'

'Managing associate Rachel Hearson offers very accurate advice and manages matters flawlessly.'

'Solicitor Tim Barber boasts very good case management and drafting skills, and is open to observations.'

Key Clients

GoCompare.com

Jemella Group t/a ghd

R.H. Smith & Sons (Wigmakers) t/a Smiffy’s

Decathlon

ME + EM

Immediate Media

Bounce Foods

Transdev Blazefield

Cowes Week

Work highlights

  • Advised Jemella Group (the manufacturer of GHD hair straighteners) on a trade mark infringement by a Chinese-based company, which included taking actions in various intellectual property offices across a number of jurisdictions.
  • Assisting GoCompare, The Global Voucher Group and Energylinx with the management of the companies' trade mark and design portfolios. This includes implementing new strategies for protection including watch services and advising on non-contentious issues including development arrangements.
  • Advising Old Mutual Group on its rebranding to Merian Global Investors, which required extensive clearance searches and advice on filing strategy as well as pro-active steps on enforcement and protection.
  • James Love Legal was instructed by Geofabrics Limited in a patent action concerning geotextiles before the High Court.
  • James Love Legal advised TomTom in connection with its IP and cross-border contractual issues.

Addleshaw Goddard's team is highlighted for its strength in advising its impressive client roster of household names on the full range of non-contentious matters. It is frequently instructed by a range of national and international blue-chip companies in corporate transactions with complex IP elements. Practice head Georgina Powling is well-regarded for her expertise in advising on M&A and finance transactions, as well as commercial agreements and research and development agreements. The group benefits from the ability to leverage the firm's commercial disputes team in contentious matters.

Practice head(s):Georgina Powling

Testimonials

'Georgina Powling is a very good non-contentious lawyer, she really knows her stuff.'

'Georgina Powling helps client to take on the "big boys" to protect their IP.'

Key Clients

Sainsbury's

Battersea Power Station

British Airways

Diageo

Ted Baker

LDC (Managers) Limited

National Grid Electricity Ventures Plc

C-Capture Limited

Moore Stephens LLP

Work highlights

  • Advised Sainsbury's Supermarkets on the IP aspects of its acquisition of the Nectar card loyalty scheme from Aimia.
  • Acted for National Grid on the complex intellectual property terms in a consortium agreement with Nissan, E.ON, Northern Powergrid, UK Power Networks, Imperial College and the University of Newcastle.
  • Assisted Diageo with the drafting and negotiation of a trade mark licence and beer manufacturing agreement between Diageo and Heineken in Ghana.
  • Advised LDC on the IP aspects of its investment into RIBA Enterprises, the commercial arm of the Royal Institute of Architects, including investigating the target's proprietary software and the acquisition and use of its technical content.
  • Assisted Ted Baker with its acquisition of the entire issued share capital of No Ordinary Shoes and No Ordinary Shoes USA from Pentland Group.

Clarion handles the full range of commercial, contentious and advisory work including patent, copyright, design and trade mark infringement litigation, brand creation and brand clearance, as well as trade mark registration and licensing work. Esther Kirwan heads up the practice and focuses on patent and other IP disputes and strategic advice, while recently promoted partner Sue Streatfield focuses on trade mark related matters.

Practice head(s):Esther Kirwan

Other key lawyers:Sue Streatfield

Testimonials

'Sue Streatfield and the team are very knowledgeable about IP and its commercialisation; the individuals are approachable, quick to respond and good value for money.'

'The intellectual property team at Clarion provides a timely, personalised service of the highest quality. Its attention to detail and understanding of the client's needs is peerless, which brings added value above and beyond what can be found at other firms offering the same services.'

'Sue Streatfield is very approachable and reliable. She understands the issues that clients have and comes up with appropriate solutions to address them.'

'Esther Kirwan, Sarah Molloy, Lorna Webb, and Isobel Jones are a terrific team! They work well together to solve complicated issues, and offer sound advice concerning the use and registration of marks within the United Kingdom and European community.'

'Esther Kirwan is a safe pair of hands; she is diligent and knows her way around IP.'

'Sue Streatfield is very good for litigation.'

Key Clients

Hard Rock International Limited/Hard Rock Cafe

FujiFilm Diosynth Biotechnologies UK Limited

Icelandic Seafood

Music For The People, Inc

Synthomer Plc

Sirius Minerals Plc

Card Factory plc

Hermes Parcelnet Limited

DFS Furniture Company Limited

Vichugo, Inc

Work highlights

  • Acted for Lindapter International in issuing court proceedings in South Africa, and pre-court action steps in the US, Australia, China and The Netherlands, to prevent its rights from being infringed.
  • Advising Synthomer on IP protection issues, R & D agreements and the commercialising of its IP.
  • Instructed to advise Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies UK on various aspects of IP protection and commercialisation including advising on IP licences, service agreements and collaboration agreements.
  • Acting for Vichugo in trade mark protection matters relating to Hugh Jackman’s brand including protection of the mark 'Hugh Jackman' and Mr Jackman’s signature.
  • Defending Cassellie Limited against allegations of registered and unregistered design rights infringement by J & J Ormerod, as well as assisting the client with prosecuting a claim for invalidity of a registered design and filing registered IP protection for its own IP.

IP boutique HGF Law has a broad practice, which is particularly noted for its trade mark and patent litigation capabilities in the healthcare and retail sectors. With a breadth of experience, practice head Martyn Fish is frequently instructed on a range of contentious and non-contentious matters relating to patents, trade marks, copyright, design rights and misuse of confidential information. The team benefits from the addition of digital and technology-focused solicitor James Talbot from Berwins.

Practice head(s):Martyn Fish

Other key lawyers:James Talbot

Key Clients

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Europe Limited

Fresh Trading Limited (Innocent Drinks)

Accord Healthcare Limited

Rocket Games (Pie Face Game)

Toyota

Pearlfisher

We Buy Any Car

Logitech Europe

Joe Browns Limited

Warwick University

Braiform (UK) Limited

Work highlights

  • Acted for Accord Health against RCT in a claim relating to RCT’s patent for lacosamide, an anti-epileptic drug.
  • Acted for Superbrand in litigation against SuperDry for trade mark infringement and breach of undertaking.
  • Assisting Braiform in registered design infringement proceedings issued by Mainetti (UK).
  • Acting for the University of Warwick in an ongoing entitlement dispute against an academic who used to work for the University.
  • Instructed by Rocket Games to handle enforcement issues and to deal with many counterfeit products imitating the it's well-known game, Pie Face.

3volution Limited provides ongoing IP advice to its clients, which span several sectors including the life sciences, biotechnology and technology fields. The group is particularly adept at assisting fast growing and innovative businesses. IT sector expert Louise Handley heads up the practice and frequently handles non-contentious matters, while Sara Ludlam is a name to note for litigation.

Practice head(s):Louise Handley

Other key lawyers:Sara Ludlam

Key Clients

Immunodiagnostic Systems Limited

Bramble Energy Limited

Planet BOFA Limited

Twisted Automotive Limited

Lincoln-Remi Group LLC

LBBC Limited

Covvi Limited

Around Noon Foods Limited

Proveca Limited

Dardam Services Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising Immunodiagnostics Systems on international IP matters, including European design work.
  • Advised Bramble Energy on a range of commercial matters including IP assignments and agreements as well as drafting standard terms for the supply of a fuel cell.
  • Drafted standard IT licence terms for Planet BOFA ensuring schools and parents can let children use its software for educational purposes, and also  conducted a full IP audit.
  • Advised Proveca on extending the scope of its trade marks worldwide, filing two new international trade mark applications covering South Korea and China with separate applications in Hong Kong.
  • Acted for Dardam Services in an invalidity claim brought by a US company regarding the distribution of allegedly infringing products.

The intellectual property team at Irwin Mitchell has the capacity to handle a range of dispute resolution and strategic advisory work. The group is particularly active in the IT, retail and manufacturing sectors. Alex Newman and Joanne Bone jointly head the practice and specialise in contentious and non-contentious matters respectively. Senior associate Emma Yates also has notable experience in IP litigation and reputation management work.

Practice head(s):Alex Newman; Joanne Bone

Other key lawyers:Emma Yates

Testimonials

'The team is tenacious and dogged, approaching substantial pieces of work with unwavering determination. It is able to understand and simplify complex issues and focus on the overriding objectives.'

'Alex Newman is able to alter his approach to fit the needs of the specific issue. He is a firm but fair litigator and is able to see the bigger picture to deliver results for his clients.'

Key Clients

Pirtek Europe Group

TransUnion

Gravity Fitness Limited

Natural Instinct Limited

Intersnkrs Limited

Ayrshire Metal Products PLC

BB Brands Limited

BetterYou Limited

JCC Lighting Limited

London Pottery Company Limited

SKA Organisation

Work highlights

  • Assisted TransUnion with a number of trade mark oppositions and also formulated an international branding strategy.
  • Acting for Natural Instinct in a multi-jurisdictional trade mark dispute against a global competitor.
  • Defended RN Ventures in patent and registered design infringement claims brought by L’Oreal SA and L’Oreal UK Limited.
  • Represented a software developer and service provider in a £70m copyright infringement dispute.
  • Advised a developer and provider of software to the travel industry on a matter involving copyright infringement, misrepresentation and various breaches of duty claims against a former founder and current director and shareholder of the company.

The intellectual property team at Pinsent Masons LLP assists clients with a range of non-contentious and strategic advice. Legal director Louise Fullwood heads up the practice and focuses on matters with a science and technology component.

Practice head(s):Louise Fullwood

Intellectual property specialist firm Virtuoso Legal handles a range of litigation, IP registrations and commercial agreements for its impressive client roster spanning innovative start-ups and well-known global brands. The technology, food and drink, healthcare, professional services, education, manufacturing and retail sectors are among the firm's specialisms. Founder Elizabeth Ward is a key name to note for IP disputes while Kirsten Toft leads the firm's non-contentious IP offering. The group frequently works alongside it's London-based team in contentious matters.

Practice head(s):Elizabeth Ward; Kirsten Toft

Testimonials

'The litigation team is a pleasure to work with, particularly in trial. It is meticulous in briefing evidence and drilling down into the factual details with clients - even under pressure of time - which makes a real difference at trial. It is highly practical and commercial and always available to counsel clients at short notice. It really goes the extra mile.'

Key Clients

VideraBio Limited

Argos Systems Inc

Dartington Crystal (Torrington) Ltd

thebigword Group Limited

Cyclone Events

Jing Lu

NOCN

Colour Synthesis Solutions Ltd.

SynDermix Management AG

Harry Hall International

Med QP

The Institute of Export and International Trade

Work highlights

  • Defended VideraBio and its directors against an interim injunction brought by ex-employees for a breach of confidence claim .
  • Assisting NOCN with its international expansion including registering and defending its IP rights.
  • Assisting Colour Synthesis Solutions with drafting several commercial agreements covering goods and services.
  • Acting for Harry Hall International on the protection of its IP as it expands its global business.
  • Advising an entertainment sector client on trade mark registration, and also defended a passing off and trade mark infringement claim.

The intellectual property, trade mark and designs group at Walker Morris LLP assists its impressive client roster of well-known brands and high-profile public and private companies with the full spectrum of IP matters. The group has a particular strength in the food production and consumer goods, and sports sectors. Directors Alan Harper and Heather Williams head the IP solicitors team and the trade mark attorney practice respectively. Clients praise Harper as 'enthusiastic and knowledgeable'; he handles a range of contentious and non-contentious work relating to all IP rights, while Williams advises on all aspects trade mark and design law.

Practice head(s):Alan Harper; Heather Williams

Testimonials

'The intellectual property team at Walker Morris LLP is friendly yet professional and receives good client base referrals.'

'Walker Morris LLP's IP team stands out for its approachability, willingness to get to the crux of an issue and strong commerciality.'

'Walker Morris LLP shows real expertise in its proposals and sound judgement in the execution of solutions to international challenges faced by clients.'

'Alan Harper and associate Matthew Lingard are both very friendly and approachable, and are able to deliver complex information in a straightforward manner.'

'Heather Williams combines technical expertise with sound practical advice, which allows clients to get to a solution quickly and effectively.'

'Alan Harper has an encyclopaedic knowledge of his area and is always willing to share best practice and get back to clients quickly.'

Key Clients

Hallmark Cards

Deckers Outdoor Corporation (Owners of UGG)

Crystal Palace Football Club

Provident Financial PLC

Pipers Crisps

Drax Group PLC

Calbee

Migros-Genossenschafts-Bund/Mibelle Ltd

Dakota Hotels

Harrisons Bathrooms Limited

Seabrook Crisps

Hughes Safety Showers

AFC Bournemouth

Symington's Ltd

Easy Cleaning Solutions

2 Sisters Food Group

MRBLANCTEETH Limited

Arville Textiles

Barbarian Football Club

Burnley Football Club

Welspun (Christy Towels)

Engie

International Procurement & Logistics

BMB (Baird Group)

Vastana

Janus International

Meatless Farms

Panache Lingerie

Amir Khan

Work highlights

  • Defending Easy Cleaning Solutions in a copyright infringement and passing off claim brought by Unilever.
  • Acting for Barbarian Football Club in a trade mark infringement and passing off claim.
  • Acted for Crompton Lamps in a patent infringement claim brought by Aurora.
  • Instructed by Deckers Outdoor Corporation to assist with the enforcement and protection of its IP rights, particularly its design rights and UGG Brand; it advised on an EU registered designs complaint against Marks & Spencer, and handled an EU registered design infringement and breach of settlement agreement claim against Shoe Zone Retail.
  • Defending Harrison Bathrooms in a claim, which includes allegations of UK unregistered design infringement.

Berwins is frequently instructed to assist clients with the protection of IP rights and boasts particular experience in the digital and IT sectors. The group handles a range of contractual, commercial and corporate transactions as well as providing strategic brand protection advice. Practice head Paul Berwin specialises in digital contracts and representing software companies and digital marketing agencies.

Practice head(s):Paul Berwin

Key Clients

Key Systems

Gap Systems Limited

Cowhold

Safe Payroll Limited

TwentySix

Trimble Inc

Anthony Hodges Consulting Ltd

Purenet

Black Sheep Brewery

Work highlights

  • Assisted Key Systems with drafting a non-disclosure agreement with another software house, which was engaged to provide an audit of the architecture and code of its software development project.
  • Assisted Gap Systems with intellectual property ownership considerations in its sale of shares to Loftware.
  • Assisting Cowhold Limited with its efforts to trade mark 'cow' for vintage clothing, including related  negotiations following an objection from a Canadian company.
  • Advising PureNet on the protection of its IP rights in the UK and Europe during the client's expansion, including the registration of a series of trade marks.
  • Advised TwentySix Digital on contract negotiations and updates to contracts to ensure the protection of its IP rights.

Lupton Fawcett is instructed to advise on a range of contentious and non-contentious matters covering the full range IP rights, from patents and designs law to trade marks, copyright and database rights. Its client roster includes high-profile companies and start-ups. Practice head Clive Lawrence, who is experienced in the media and sports sectors, handles commercial matters and disputes; and senior associate Ben Clay has expertise in obtaining, exploiting and enforcing a range of rights, and defending infringement allegations. Former partner John Sykes has taken a consultancy role.

Practice head(s):Clive Lawrence

Other key lawyers:John Sykes; Ben Clay

Testimonials

'Lupton Fawcett's intellectual property team is helpful and professional.'

'Clive Lawrence has impressive knowledge and experience, is very professional and provides an excellent service.'

Key Clients

Vet AI Limited

Jacuzzi Spa & Baths Limited

Chaucer Foods Limited

Brenntag UK Limited

Campaign For Fairer Gambling

York Gin Limited

Nouveau Lashes Limited

J & J Ormerod Plc

Event Protect Limited

Work highlights

  • Acting for J & J Ormerod in a registered and unregistered design right infringement case involving an innovative basin combination.
  • Advised start-up Vet AI on patents, trade mark protection, copyright issues, database rights, contractual relationships and data protection work.
  • Advising a campaigner for fairer gambling in a libel claim against the Association of British Bookmakers.
  • Acted for an IT sector client in litigation relating to the ownership of software, copyright infringement, and malicious damage.

With technology, life sciences and education sector expertise, Mills & Reeve LLP is instructed on a range of intellectual property matters ranging from advising on the protection of rights in corporate transactions to representing clients in high-profile patent litigation. Mark Pearce heads up the national practice from the Leeds office and has experience in both contentious and non-contentious matters.

Practice head(s):Mark Pearce

Key Clients

Nottingham Trent University

Cambridge University Hospitals Trust

University of West London

Tekmar plc

Fox International Group Limited

Premia Solutions Limited

The Institution of Engineering and Technology

Spomb Fishing Limited

Work highlights

  • Assisted a private individual (an owner of two pharmacy businesses) with their intervention in the high-profile Supreme Court hearing, Warner-Lambert v Generics.
  • Acted for Fox International on the IP aspects of its acquisition of Spomb and its subsidiary, Spomb Fishing.
  • Represented Tekmar Energy in a patent infringement action against Seaproof.
  • Advised Cambridge University Hospitals Trust on a partnership with a German manufacturer of hearing-related medical devices for the establishment of a Cambridge Ear Institute.
  • Acting for Spomb Fishing in patent infringement proceedings in the IPEC against Serbian company, Carp Systems DOO, its UK distributor and two companies in the Nash Group.

Rollits LLP is frequently instructed to advise on the development and implementation of IP strategies, with particular expertise in the food, manufacturing and charity sectors. Hull-based practice head Keith Benton focuses on commercial and non-contentious IP matters, while York-based dispute resolution partner Andrew Digwood brings litigation capabilities. Recently promoted partner James Peel advises clients on the creation, licensing and use of IP rights, with notable experience in the sports sector.

Practice head(s):Keith Benton

Other key lawyers:Andrew Digwood; James Peel

Testimonials

'Rollits LLP intellectual property team is extremely responsive and takes the time to truly understand its client's business needs.'

'Keith Benton provides pragmatic and timely support on major commercial contracts.'

'Keith Benton is a fantastic asset to clients.'

Key Clients

AAK International

Proton Cars

Cranswick Plc

Seachill Limited

Hull City Tigers

Ideal Standard

Moordale Foods

Institute for Strategic Dialogue

Northern Lincolnshire & Goole NHS Trust

Quandoo Gmbh

Work highlights

  • Advised AAK International on the transfer of its UK business to a new Swedish company operating through a branch in the UK, which included a transfer of the client's worldwide trade mark portfolio.
  • Advised Quandoo on the new licensing terms for commissioning and licensing imagery for client restaurants.
  • Advised Floreon on its strategy for granting licences of its patented biodegradable polymer technology.
  • Advised the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD) on agreements with third parties who will create IP rights while undertaking research for ISD, as well as agreements for a collaborative project with a not-for-profit counter extremism organisation in the US.
  • Assisted A B Graphic with various agreements with third parties around the world.

Gateley Plc's intellectual property practice advises on a range of strategic and commercial matters, brand protection work and portfolio management for its clients, which include local and national businesses in the retail, food and drink, and manufacturing sectors. The team was established by the arrival of Rob Lucas from Shulmans LLP in 2018; Lucas boasts experience in a range of contentious and non-contentious IP work with IT, sports and media and entertainment sector specialisms.

Practice head(s):Rob Lucas

Key Clients

Incanthera Limited

Harman Technology Limited

Stryker Inc

JD Sports Fashion plc

Manchester City Football Club Limited

Edinburgh Woollen Mill

Microbiosensor  Limited

Pendle Metalwares Limited

PeptigelDesign Limited

Salts Healthcare

Hull-based firm Gosschalks has the ability to handle a range of commercial and contentious IP instructions. James Phinn, who has particular experience in the engineering, food, service and IT sectors, and Phil Osborne, who focuses on retail and technology, head up the non-contentious and disputes practices respectively.

Practice head(s):James Phinn; Phil Osborne

Key Clients

Imagesound PLC

Massarella Catering Group Limited

Air-Weigh Europe Limited

Scientific Laboratory Supplies Limited

Res-Q Limited

Fluid Power Design Solutions Limited

The Hemp Trades Association UK Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised ResQ on a new £20m client service contract with Vodafone Limited.
  • Successfully defended The Cannabis Trades Association in a trade mark infringement claim brought by Cannabliss Limited.
  • Represented a member of a British heavy metal band in a dispute over the ownership of IP rights in the band’s name and several songs.
  • Acted for a leading supplier of laboratory equipment in a potential copyright enforcement action.
  • Assisted a specialist horticultural grower with a production and supply agreement with a leading pharmaceutical company.

The commercial and intellectual property team at LCF Law is noted for its representation of owner-managed businesses, online retailers and IT sector clients alongside particular expertise advising on the EU Biocidal Products Directive and Regulation. James Sarjantson heads up the practice and has experience across the full range of IP rights.

Practice head(s):James Sarjantson

Testimonials

'LCF Law has a great customer-centric focus. There is a common culture and the lawyers are trustworthy and really care about the clients!'

'All of the individuals are great and care about their clients. Their advice is always accurate and clients trust them.'

Known particularly for its sport,  media and entertainment sectors expertise, the intellectual property practice at McCormicks assists clients with the protection and monetisation of their IP rights. The group also acts for several clients in the retail sector and is increasingly being instructed by start-ups. Corporate and commercial lawyer Jon Healey heads up the team, while name partner Peter McCormick is a key name to note, particularly for sports sector work.

Practice head(s):Jon Healey

Other key lawyers:Peter McCormick

Testimonials

'McCormicks is very thorough, can explain legal concepts in an accessible way, avoiding legal terminology, and provides answers within a short time frame.'

 

Key Clients

The Premier League

Premier League Charitable Fund

Harrogate International Festivals

The Rookery Project Ltd

Leeds United Football Club

T Plus Ltd (James Dawson)

DFS Furniture Group Limited

Visit Harrogate

AQ Limited

Julian Norton

The Isthmian League (Bostik League)

Work highlights

  • Advising The Premier League on its IT usage policy and protection of IP rights, on behalf of the director of IT.
  • Acting for a new greetings card retail client on all of its IP work.
  • Acting for the Premier League Charitable Fund on data protection issues and the licencing of trade marks and other IP rights.

Percy Crow Davis & Co is highlighted for its advice to owner-managed businesses on strategic and commercial matters relating to the full spectrum of intellectual property rights. Dai Davis, who specialises in the engineering industry, is the key name to note for a range of non-contentious IP projects.

Practice head(s):Dai Davis

Key Clients

Kirkstall Limited

Rack Systems Engineering Limited

Concept Data Display Limited

Star Brands Limited

Adact Medical Limited

Discount-Licensing Limited

Lead Advisory Company

OTL Limited

P1 Technology Limited

TÜV SÜD Limited

Work highlights

  • Assisted Kirkstall with its worldwide licensing strategy.
  • Advised a client on how it can produce a competitive product without infringing design rights.
  • Advised P1 Technologies on the commercialisation and overall licensing strategy of its patentable inventions.

The intellectual property team at Ward Hadaway frequently advises its client base, which ranges from start-ups and local SME technology businesses to well-known brands, on a range of non-contentious matters for the development, protection and exploitation of rights. Bill Goodwin heads up the group and is particularly active in the technology and manufacturing industries, while Gareth Yates focuses on the IT sector.

Practice head(s):Bill Goodwin

Other key lawyers:Gareth Yates

Testimonials

'Bill Goodwin combines expert IP knowledge with an approachable and supportive manner.'

Key Clients

SAP

Eurocamp

Hisense

Communisis

Sage

Whocanfixmycar.com Ltd

Business and IP Centre's (BIPC) in Leeds and Manchester

British Educational Suppliers Association (BESA)

Pro-Lite International Ltd (Pro-Lite bikes)

Work highlights

  • Advised Whocanfixmycar.com on a range of matters including the protection of software copyrights, trade mark registrations and IP issues and due diligence relating to multiple investment rounds.
  • Assisting Greenbank Holidays with the management of its portfolio of trade marks across the UK and the EU, including those relating to the Eurocamp brand and other brands including Al Fresco Holidays.
  • Advised BESA on the protection of a number of brands internationally, which it uses to represent and support British education companies. This includes trade mark filings covering several countries including UK, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia.

Interview with...

Law firm partners and practice heads explain how their firms are adapting to clients' changing needs

Interview with...

Law firm partners and practice heads explain how their firms are adapting to clients' changing needs

Jobs available in Yorkshire and the Humber

GC Diversity and Inclusion Report

In partnership with...

'Ultimately there are as many barriers as you put up yourself, you can put up being female and black as an excuse or use it as a weapon of defiance.'

SANDIE OKORO, GENERAL COUNSEL, HSBC GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT

View more interviews from GC Magazine's Diversity and Inclusion Report UK

Interview with...

Law firm partners and practice heads explain how their firms are adapting to clients' changing needs

International comparative guides

Giving the in-house community greater insight to the law and regulations in different jurisdictions.

Select Practice Area

GC Diversity and Inclusion Report

In partnership with...

'Ultimately there are as many barriers as you put up yourself, you can put up being female and black as an excuse or use it as a weapon of defiance.'

SANDIE OKORO, GENERAL COUNSEL, HSBC GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT

View more interviews from GC Magazine's Diversity and Inclusion Report UK

Client Intelligence Report

The Legal 500 United Kingdom - Events

The Legal 500 TV

The Legal 500 UK Awards 2017

Search News and Articles

Press releases

The latest news direct from law firms. If you would like to submit press releases for your firm, send an email request to

Legal Developments in the UK

Legal Developments and updates from the leading lawyers in each jurisdiction. To contribute, send an email request to

Press Releases in the UK

The latest news direct from law firms. If you would like to submit press releases for your firm, send an email request to
© 2019 www.legal500.com