Pharmaceutical and biotech companies rely on Arnold & Porter‘s ’precise knowledge’ of the life sciences sector for regulatory advice, litigation and investigations involving medical products and devices, clinical trials and digital health products. The firm is also well-placed to advise on transactions, ranging from M&A to partnerships and licensing, as well as on product liability claims and inquiries. The team is led by the ‘outstanding’ Adela Williams, who draws on her medical background to advise on regulations related to clinical trials, marketing authorisations, pharmacovigilance and advertising. Jackie Mulryne handles regulatory, policy and compliance advice, with a focus on digital health. Beatriz San Martin focuses on patents, SPC and other IP rights, while the ’excellent’ Libby Amos-Stone and Eleri Abreo handle regulatory advice and litigation. Ewan Townsend, recognised for his sector knowledge, advises on commercial transactions relating to the development, exploitation, and commercialisation of medicinal products. Ian Dodds-Smith is no longer at the firm.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘I work with the Life Sciences Regulatory Law team and they are excellent. They have a very strong and precise knowledge of the law, regulation and guidance in this area - which is essential as our industry is very heavily regulated. I appreciate that they provide precise and accurate answers, as well as advising on how to manage issues 'on the ground'. There are few law firms that I trust as much.’
'A key strength of this practice is its extensive knowledge of the life sciences sector and its focus on client-centric service. The team excels in offering responsive and tailored advice, ensuring clients receive timely insights that are crucial for maintaining competitiveness in the rapidly evolving healthcare market.'
'What makes this team exceptional is their proactive and solution-oriented mindset. Libby Amos-Stone consistently brings innovative ideas to the table, helping us navigate complex legal challenges in the life sciences space. Their practical approach, combined with a deep understanding of industry dynamics, enables them to deliver effective solutions quickly, making them invaluable support.'
‘A&P's life sciences and healthcare team is outstanding. They are very responsive and knowledgeable. Most of all, their advice is always business-oriented and extremely practical. On top of it, they are friendly, accessible, and ready to tailor their ways of working to the client's needs.’
‘Big shout out to Jackie Mulryne. I could not recommend her enough.’
‘Adela Williams is a former doctor and an assistant coroner as well as being an outstanding lawyer. She brings a unique combination of skills to her clients which often means that she can provide medical as well as legal expertise. The remainder of the team are excellent: hardworking and with strong technical skills, excellent with clients and a pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
- AstraZeneca
- Bayer
- Biogen
- Essential Pharma
- GSK
- Incyte
- Kyowa Kirin
- Norgine
- Orion Inc
- Pfizer
- Sanofi
- Touchlight
Work highlights
Advised Biogen on pan-EU litigation before national and EU courts in relation to the data and marketing protection for Tecfidera.
Advised AstraZeneca in UK product liability claims including representation at inquests and a group action in the High Court. Co-ordinating claims across Europe and globally in tandem with US colleagues.
Advised Pfizer in the rollout of its initiative An Accord for a Healthier World, which was announced at the World Economic Forum in Davos in May 2022 and expanded in January 2023.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Jacqueline Mulryne
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Libby Amos-Stone
Eleri Abreo
Practice head
Adela Williams
Other key lawyers
Jackie Mulryne; Libby Amos-Stone; Eleri Abreo; Ewan Townsend; Jeremy Willcocks; Tom Wilson