Well-versed in SEP/FRAND litigation, life sciences patent disputes before the UK courts and the UPC, managing SPCs, and a host of commercial, transactional, and investment matters, Bird & Bird LLP‘s sizeable patent team is co-led by London-based tech and telecoms disputes specialist Richard Vary, with Rebecca O’Kelly-Gillard, and transactions lawyer Tom Snaith heading up the London IP group. They are supported by seasoned navigator of cross-border litigation Morag Macdonald, life sciences and biotech disputes specialist Mark Hilton, and Katharine Stephens, who comes recommended for running enforcement programs and IP litigation. Jae Park takes care of patents and designs from all administrative, commercial, and disputatious angles, and Toby Bond handles copyright, trade secrets, regulatory matters, and data issues, as well as patent disputes in the AI realm. Eleanor Root is experienced in patent litigation, James Pearson focuses on transactions, and Matthew Noble is noted for his expertise in SEP/FRAND issues. William Warne is another key name, alongside Jane Mutimear.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Bird & Bird assisted with IP due diligence related to an M&A. Their keen understanding of the scope of the project together with their ability to get up to speed very quickly was critical. Their understanding of the technology together with their legal acumen (and speed) was impressive.'
- 'Sally Shorthose - high legal acumen together with technical depth. Has the ability to distil large amounts of IP data into information that really assists in achieving the best result for the client.'
- 'Richard Vary is a knowledgeable IP solicitor.''An outstanding legal firm known for its deep expertise, strategic insight, and exceptional client service. They combine commercial awareness with a strong understanding of complex legal issues, particularly in fast-moving, innovation-driven sectors. Their teams are responsive, professional, and dedicated—making them a trusted partner in any legal challenge.''Highly skilled professionals with extensive experience. They provide valuable advice without hesitation, understand the urgency of matters, and always respond efficiently and in a timely manner.''Industry knowledge and expertise.'
Key clients
- Nokia
- Interdigital
- Martin-Baker Aircraft Company
- The Broad Institute
- Dexcom
- Celltrion
- ZTE
- CureVac
Work highlights
Acted for Dexcom in multiple international patent infringement and revocation claims against Abbott in relation to its continuous glucose monitoring devices.
Acted for Interdigital in filing patent infringement actions in the UK, India, and Germany against four patents alleging infringement of its patents relating to 3G, 4G/LTE and 5G against Oppo.
Acting for Martin-Baker Aircraft Company in a patent action against another manufacturer of jet ejection seats.
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.
Richard Vary
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Jane Mutimear
Tom Snaith
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
James Pearson
Practice head
Rebecca O’Kelly-Gillard; Tom Snaith; Richard Vary
Other key lawyers
Katharine Stephens; Jae Park; Toby Bond; Eleanor Root; James Pearson; Matthew Noble; Tom Darvill; William Warne; Jennifer Jones; Mark Hilton; Patrick Kellher; Nicole Jadeja; Louise Sargeant; Mario Subramaniam; Jane Mutimear; Sally Shorthose