Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP handles significant international intellectual property cases, acting primarily with multinational brands. Unified Patent Court proceedings are a strength of the practice, that is also skilled at handling trade mark work. The team regularly acts on high-profile matters in the retail, consumer good, and manufacturing sectors. James Love heads the practice, with particular expertise in trade mark work. Rose Smalley-Gordon is an ‘exceptional legal professional with impressive technical ability’ and is key to the practice, along with Amy Galloway. The practice further expanded, with the arrival of Maya Muchemwa from Taylor Wessing LLP in September 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Well rounded, single site, cohesive one stop Intellectual Property Department demonstrating skill and experience across the full range of IP matters.’
‘Rose Smalley-Gordon: excellent understanding of intellectual property litigation and in particular which type of dispute are suitable for which forum.’
‘The Womble Bond Dickinson boasts a high calibre of individuals with a wide range of post-qualification experience. The team takes the time to understand our business thoroughly and consistently provides creative solutions to achieve our goals in line with our commercial challenges.'
‘Rose Smalley-Gordon is an exceptional legal professional with impressive technical ability. Rose's attention to detail is remarkable, ensuring thoroughness and precision in every aspect of her work. Her dedication and expertise make her an invaluable asset to Womble Bond Dickinson and her clients.'
- 'James Love has exceptional technical ability. His team resource management skills are great, ensuring that all projects are handled efficiently. James has a deep understanding of commercial factors, which allows him to provide valuable insights and strategic advice. His dedication and expertise make him an invaluable asset to our business and to me as the in-house counsel.'
Key clients
- Global Brands
- Vetements
- The Swiss Government
- DeTect
- NorthStandard
- Barbour
- H&M
- Decathlon
- Duckhams
- English Heritage / Historic England
- Fentimans
- Bellway
Work highlights
Advising DeTect Global in the defence of a High Court and Unified Patents Court patent infringement action relating to a European Patent.
Advising on the expansion of protection for Barbour's core brands, and advising on a number of contentious matters involving Barbour's trade marks, designs and copyright.
Acting for the Swiss Government on oppositions based on a number of complex and uncommon grounds, including that the applications are deceptive and have been filed in bad faith.
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.
Practice head
James Love
Other key lawyers
Rose Smalley-Gordon; Amy Galloway; Maya Muchemwa