Tom Iverson > Simkins LLP > London, England > Lawyer Profile

‘Unquestionably one of the leading specialist teams in this sector‘, the commercial music practice at Simkins LLP stands out for its impressive track record in catalogue sales and acquisitions work. The firm also acts for various notable artists, producers and emerging talent in recording and publishing deals, as well as touring and rights agreements. The group has recently expanded its live music offering by additionality advising on tech-driven live events. Practice head Euan Lawson acts for major labels and several acclaimed artists in contractual and commercial matters. Ed Baden-Powell focuses on commercial contracts and IP work, while copyright and contract disputes are key areas of expertise for Paddy Gardiner and Tom Iverson. Nick Eziefula advises artists, labels and publishers on commercial and IP matters. Ed Weidman is well versed in the drafting and negotiation of commercial contracts, while Ben Gisbey and Stuart Smith specialise in corporate and transactional issues.

Praised for its ‘very responsive and dedicated practice’, Simkins LLP is notably well-versed in the media and entertainment space, often representing clients before the IPEC, High Court, and UK and EU IPOs. Paddy Gardiner helms the team with his arsenal of skills across the music, film and TV sectors, while Jim Dennis, who possesses more than 25 years of experience in the field, handles the full gamut of IP rights. Tom Iverson is another name to note in the practice, bolstering the group with his IP disputes expertise.

Simkins LLP is recognised for its expertise in handling high-stakes crisis situations, particularly in the realms of digital and social media. The firm excels in defamation, privacy, and data protection mandates, with a strong focus on pre-publication and pre-broadcast advice. The team is led by Gideon Benaim, ‘a true expert on all facets of reputation law’ who is noted for his work with prominent clients in the financial services, technology, and television sectors. Jon Oakley has broad experience in reputation protection and crisis management, having acted for a number of high-profile clients, while Tom Iverson is experienced in representing individuals and corporations in defamation proceedings, including cases before the High Court. Jessica Welch is a key contact for national newspapers, search engines, social media platforms and international publications.