Intellectual property

We advise on all aspects of contentious and non-contentious intellectual property. Globally recognised brands turn to us to protect, exploit and enforce their intellectual property rights. We pride ourselves on being responsive, supportive and able to deal with complex issues in a clear and pragmatic way. 

Recognised by policy makers for our expertise, we are currently working with the government’s Intellectual Property Office to examine the effectiveness of UK design law in the UK.

We provide practical guidance on agreements, navigating EU data protection laws and disputes relating to patents, design rights, confidentiality, copyright and trade mark infringement issues.  Our diverse expertise supports a range of clients spanning the creative and technology industries to those operating in the sports and energy sectors. 

 

Examples of our experience include:

• WPL vs. SAS - involving the extent to which software is protected by copyright within the EU.  We act for WPL.  At issue is whether copyright subsists in programming languages, interfaces and the functionality of computer programs.  Pending in the Court of Justice of the European Union for interpretation of key European legislation concerning copyright's protection of software.  A legal battle described as ‘David v Goliath’. 
• a £100 million franchise deal on behalf of a well known retailer, as well as related trade mark agreements spanning the Middle East, South East Asia and USA.
• the global IP indemnity cover policy of one of the world’s largest insurers.
• Worldwide trade mark protection for a major corporate seeking cohesive and strategic protection of its key brands.
• contentious and non-contentious issues arising from use of celebrity name subsequent to sale of related global business.
• publishing, merchandising and broadcasting rights for a children’s television series and related trade mark advice.