RPC is a strong video games and esports firm, advising esports teams, video game developers, publishers, and platforms on contentious and non-contentious matters. The practice is led by Joshua Charalambous, who centres his practice on both IP and commercial matters. The firm is able to assist clients with a wide array of matters, from online safety to consumer regulations, commercialisation, and protection of content, as well as advertising and marketing matters. The group is also well-known for its work in the disputes space where it defends clients in litigation related to licensing, acquisitions, and consumer issues. Oliver Bray is well-equipped to advise on regulatory compliance and AI issues for social media platforms, while David Cran supports video game publishers, developers, distribution companies, and platforms with technology, competition, and commercial issues. Jeremy Drew often handles gaming and esports matters, such as licensing and sponsorship deals.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team has brought to esports the benefit of its vast experience in traditional sports, but has taken the time to understand how esports is different to the multiple traditional sports leagues and disciplines that the team works across.’
‘Joshua Charalambous has a steely core with high intelligence and a friendly, low-key approach. Josh is very easy to work with, but doesn't drop a ball on quality or delivery.'
'Harpreet Kaur is friendly and reliable.’
‘I’ve found RPC’s video games team to be consistently reliable, technically sound, and very user-friendly from a barrister’s point of view. Their advice is clear, well-informed, and tailored to real-world commercial concerns. They are quick to engage with counsel meaningfully and adopt a genuinely collaborative approach.’
‘The people I’ve worked with are sharp, organised, and easy to deal with. Joshua Charalambous in particular is a standout—thorough, strategic, and a pleasure to work alongside. Their clear instructions and deep understanding of litigation make my role more effective.’
Key clients
- YouTube
- Valve
- Meta
- Meta Reality Labs
- Fnatic
- GiantX
- SEGA
- GAME Digital
- Oculus
- The Esports Awards
- National Student Esports
- NCSOFT
- Women's Super League
- Aristocrat
Work highlights
Represented Valve in the UK proceedings brought on behalf of 14 million UK consumers relating to video games purchased via Steam.
Represented the 10 League of Legends LEC esports teams in relation to the negotiation with Riot Games of the new business model for participation in LEC.
Represented Google in relation to the litigation brought in the UK by Epic Games in respect of the Fortnite title.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Joshua Charalambous
Other key lawyers
Oliver Bray; David Cran; Jeremy Drew; Harpreet Kaur