A specialist in life sciences and technology, Bristows LLP is well-equipped to deliver ‘pragmatic, risk-based advice’ to global pharma, biotech and medical device companies on regulatory matters and licensing, collaboration, and M&A transactions. Its dedicated IP litigation team is recognised for leveraging scientific knowledge to ’tactical advantage’ in precedent-setting cases before UK and European courts. The ‘dedicated’ team is led by experienced patent litigator Liz Cohen and Richard Dickinson, who focuses on commercial transactions and IP advisory. Brian Cordery and Robert Burrows are renowned for their patent litigation experience, while Adrian Chew handles patent enforcement and validity matters. Alex Denoon is ’extremely knowledgeable’ in regulatory matters, especially concerning disruptive technologies, while Xisca Borrás specialises in EU and UK life sciences law. The ‘outstanding’ Claire Smith advises on a range of life sciences transactions alongside Matthew Warren. Competition expert Robert Vidal arrived from Pinsent Masons LLP in January 2025. Gemma Barrett is no longer at the firm.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Alex Denoon is extremely knowledgeable and great to work with.’
  • ‘Brian Cordery is one of the best litigators in life sciences in the UK. He is extremely experienced, very sensible and remarkably hands-on. Anyone with a patent in the life sciences or pharmaceutical arena should consider using him (or fear him as an adversary). Katie Cambrook's work has impressed me in a biotechnology context. She is very personable, down to earth, and effective.’

Key clients

  • Syncona
  • Telix Pharmaceuticals

Work highlights

Advised Touchlight Genetics Limited on English patent litigation over entitlement to patents related to its novel processes for the in vitro production of doggy-bone DNA used in the production of vaccines.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

Liz Cohen; Richard Dickinson

Other key lawyers

Brian Cordery; Robert Burrows; Alex Denoon; Xisca Borrás; Adrian Chew; Claire Smith; Matthew Warren; Robert Vidal