The patent group at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP counsels clients in relation to a range of IP-heavy transactions and R&D deals, coordinates cross-border litigation involving the UPC, and is particularly experienced in litigating disputes for innovators in the pharmaceutical sector. The team, which works under the leadership of life sciences specialist Sebastian Moore, is also equipped to advise a range of clients on SPCs, hi-tech patent litigation, and more. Andrew Moir is a key contact for digital and tech patent matters, including SEP and FRAND litigation, and Andrew Wells is a highly experienced litigator across various innovation-intensive industries. Emily Bottle, who pivots between the firm’s London and Milan offices, handles life sciences disputes, and Jonathan Turnbull specialises in disputes stemming from R&D agreements. Emma Sherratt‘s remit includes patent validity and freedom-to-operate work in the pharma and life sciences sectors, and George McCubbin is involved in non-contentious and contentious pharma matters. Monika Klajn and Priyanka Madan are further names to note.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘They are highly skilled.’

  • ‘Emily Bottle and Sebastian Moore are both excellent to work with.’

  • ‘This practice is unique in being able to call upon a large network of high-quality attorneys with different skill sets and specialities. This means they can hit the ground running in any kind of dispute, including technically-focused and legally-focused disputes, and provide instant, effective advice.’

  • ‘The individuals I work with are, first and foremost, great people. They are friendly, engaging, and supportive, and it is a pleasure to collaborate with them. They are also a diverse bunch, which enriches the interactions and the work products they provide. A special mention goes to the partner Emily Bottle, who is highly organised and who can break complex issues down into easily digestible form and craft effective counter-strategies.’

  • ‘I have worked with the IP litigation team at various points over the last 10-15 years, and have always found them to be excellent.’

  • ‘Andrew Wells and Emily Bottle are both highly intelligent and knowledgeable, and are a pleasure to work with.'

Key clients

  • Seoul Semiconductor
  • R2 Semiconductor
  • Gilead Sciences
  • Takeda
  • Roche
  • AbbVie
  • British American Tobacco (BAT)
  • Sanofi
  • MT Realtime Live
  • Games Global

Work highlights

Acted for Millennium Pharmaceuticals and its licensee Johnson & Johnson in the pan-European defence of Velcade's market exclusivity (bortezomib), a drug used to treat multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma.
Representing MT RealTime Live Ltd against Playtech Software Limited in two sets of UPC patent proceedings concerning interactive live gaming, and in related proceedings in the UK High Court concerning trade secrets and confidential information.
Acting for Roche in the defence of English High Court proceedings brought by Accord Healthcare seeking revocation of two patents protecting Roche's Herceptin subcutaneous formulation.

Practice head

Sebastian Moore

Other key lawyers

Andrew Moir; Andrew Wells; Emily Bottle; Jonathan Turnbull; Emma Sherratt; George McCubbin; Monika Klajn; Priyanka Madan; Emily Bottle