Flint Bishop, which acquired Lupton Fawcett in September 2025, has expertise in both contentious and non-contentious IP matters. The group is particularly adept at advising emerging technology businesses and start ups in the commercialisation of their IP. The team is led by Deborah Niven, who joined from gunnercooke LLP in February 2026. Working alongside Niven is Rebecca Little.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- The individuals within the team stand out for their professionalism, technical excellence, and commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes. What differentiates them from competitors is not only their depth of knowledge, but also their ability to communicate complex legal issues in a clear and practical manner. Overall, the team combines technical expertise with a collaborative and solution-oriented mindset. Their responsiveness, clarity of advice, and commitment to client care are particularly valued and consistently set them apart from competitors.
- The practice stands out for its combination of deep technical expertise, commercial awareness, and a highly responsive, client-focused approach. What makes the team particularly unique is its ability to manage complex, multi-jurisdictional matters with consistency, efficiency, and strategic insight. Clients benefit from a team that not only understands the legal framework but also appreciates the practical and commercial realities of operating across diverse markets.
- Rebecca Little (Solicitor) Rebecca provides clear, well-reasoned advice that is both technically robust and commercially pragmatic. Her ability to respond swiftly — often on very short notice — while maintaining unwavering precision sets her apart from many competitors. Michelle Rock (Trade Mark Formalities Assistant) Michelle brings an outstanding level of organization, efficiency, and reliability to every matter she handles. Her work is consistently meticulous, and she ensures that deadlines, filings, and formalities are managed seamlessly. What truly distinguishes Michelle is the speed and accuracy of her responses, which materially contribute to the smooth progression of complex matters. She is proactive, solution-oriented, and always a pleasure to work with, embodying the highest standards of professional support. Overall impression Both Rebecca's and Michelle's teamwork reflects a high degree of internal coordination and mutual support, resulting in consistently excellent outcomes. They are, without question, key assets to Flint Bishop’s IP practice.
Work highlights
Advised a client on the acquisition of a global trade mark portfolio for a well-known breakfast cereal brand, including drafting the assignment and coordinating with trade mark agents, for a deal value of £600,000.
Advising a client on UK trade mark matters, including strategic IP guidance for their international portfolio and managing an opposition concerning the use of their mark within a figurative sign by a third party.
Advised a client on UK, US, Hong Kong, and international trade mark filings for scientific instruments, successfully navigating a partial refusal in China to secure protection by revoking earlier conflicting registrations and amending class 9.
Practice head
Deborah Niven
Other key lawyers
Rebecca Little