The patent offering at CMS is co-led by Sarah Hanson and litigator Caitlin Heard, and offers a range of contentious and non-contentious services to major players in patent-heavy industries. Participants in the emerging area of SEP and FRAND, the group is also well-versed in complex life sciences litigation, plant breeders’ rights disputes, patent commercialisation strategies, and major IP-based transactions in the tech and energy sectors, a workflow where Joel Vertes is a key name. He also leads the charge on the team’s patent monetisation offering. The bench includes seasoned patent disputes specialist Mark Shillito, and Fionnuala Rice, who is experienced across a variety of contentious and non-contentious instructions. Toby Sears departed for Jones Day in October 2024.
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Key clients
- Microsoft
- Hydra well
- Mayborn (Tommee Tippe)
- Estar Medical Ltd.
- Sainsbury’s
- Stockmeier
Work highlights
Retained by Microsoft Corporation to defend a claim of patent infringement in the UK High Court.
Defending Sainsbury’s in proceedings relating to alleged infringement of a plant breeders’ right owned by Nador Cott Protection S.A.S.
Defending Stockmeier in a claim for patent infringement in the UK.
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
Caitlin Heard; Sarah Hanson
Other key lawyers
Joel Vertes; Mark Shillito; Fionnuala Rice