Commended as a ‘top quality’ and ‘high calibre’ team, Allen & Overy LLP is noted for its global IP capabilities, acting for the largest companies in the technology and telecoms sectors. David Stone leads the global IP team, while Jim Ford co-chairs the firm’s global life sciences group and is known for his expertise on the exploitation of IP rights. Mark Ridgway routinely acts for clients in high value mandates across the technology, telecoms, life sciences and financial services sectors, and Nigel Parker possesses vast experience across complex IP joint ventures, IP compliance and risk, and sponsorship agreements, among others. Known for his cross-border dispute capabilities, Mark Heaney is well-versed in hi-tech sector litigation. Neville Cordell bolsters the practice with his experience in managing a variety of disputes, while Marjan Noor specialises in life sciences patent litigation. Rafi Allos is also noted for his expertise in the life sciences space, as well as regulatory advice. Senior associates Tom Edwards and James Fox are also recommended, with the former regularly assisting clients with multi-jurisdictional patent disputes, and the latter’s strength lying in hi-tech and telecoms patent litigation. Another name to note is associate Erin Currie.

Bird & Bird LLP’s expertise lies in the tech-centric sectors, routinely representing the largest global pharma, biotech and medical devices companies. Its work increasingly entails advising on the IP aspects of acquisitions, as well as the investment in or sale of businesses. Robert Williams and Rebecca O’Kelly Gillard lead the practice alongside Tom Snaith, who is well-versed in complex IP-rich transactions, including M&A, equity capital market and spin-outs, to name a few. Morag Macdonald provides clients with all forms of IP litigation and strategic advice, notably within an international cross border context, while Richard Vary is noted for his wealth of experience in the valuation of portfolios and FRAND. Another name to note is Katharine Stephens, who has considerable expertise in coordinating multijurisdictional patent litigation, as well as designing and implementing pan-European protection and enforcement programs. Christopher De Mauny strengthen the practice with his capabilities in handling hi-tech, life sciences and sustainable technologies. Toby Bond’s strengths lies in managing multi-jurisdictional patent disputes and developing litigation project management platforms. Jane Mutimear is also recommended.

Praised by clients as an ‘extremely experienced and very well-established’ team, Bristows LLP’s one-stop shop is notable for its capabilities in handling technology, life science and consumer products. The team is involved in cutting-edge work in SEP/FRAND cases, alongside pharmaceuticals, including important biologics and antibodies cases. On the transactional side, the team routinely handles IP deals including settlements, high value research collaboration and licensing deals, and IP aspects of corporate and JV transactions. Andrew Bowler and Myles Jelf jointly lead the patent litigation practice, the former is well-versed in coordinating global litigation and the latter is noted for his expertise in telecommunication and high tech matters. Matthew Warren leads the transactional side of the practice, his most notable work includes a landmark research collaboration and licence agreement between Oxford University Innovation and AstraZeneca. Claire Smith is another name to note on the transactional side. Liz Cohen’s strengths lie in the realm of life sciences, while James Boon is sought after by clients in the telecoms and high-tech sectors. Other patent litigation specialists include Gemma Barrett, Richard Pinckney, Robert Burrows, Dominic Adair and Brian Cordery.

The ‘amazing’ Hogan Lovells International LLP maintains a strong practice in pan-European patent litigation strategy alongside a strong transactional practice. The team is helmed ‘force of nature’ Paul Brown, who is sought out by clients for his expertise in patent-related disputes in the electronics and medical devices sector. ‘Superb’ Stephen Bennett is also in high demand with pharma companies for his considerable experience in handling disputes. Another notable name is Joel Smith, who has strengths in both contentious and non-contentious matters, with a niche expertise in plant variety protection and regulation. Patent litigator Daniel Brook routinely undertakes cross-border pharma litigation, notably representing Eli Lilly in a dispute regarding its cancer drug pemetrexed. Katie McConnell is noted for her expertise in the telecoms and pharma fields, while Stella Wong focuses on medical device, pharmaceutical and biotechnology patents, balancing her legal practice with her work as a doctor. Counsels Emma Fulton and Dominic Hoar are also recommended.

‘Top-class’ Kirkland & Ellis International LLP maintains a strong IP offering, routinely handling high-stakes disputes, one notable example being the team’s representation of Pfizer and Regeneron in landmark judgments in the Supreme Court. The team of ‘ferocious litigators’ also has experience of handling SEP/FRAND related litigation. On the transactional side, the team is involved in M&A deals, as well as multiple asset deals and carve-out transactions. Nicola Dagg spearheads the IP litigation practice, she has a wealth of experience in managing biotech patent litigations, as well as an expertise in emerging SEP/FRAND related work. Daniel Lim is noted for his ability to handle complex multijurisdictional patent litigation, often involving blockbuster life sciences and medical devices related matters, while IP litigator Steven Baldwin is well-versed in the high-tech and life sciences sectors. ‘Strategic thinker’ Jin Ooi fields a strong IP litigation practice, with his expertise in the biotechnology space. Emma Flett leads the firm’s technology and IP transactions team with her capabilities that encompass the full gamut of IP-related work, but especially in regard to high-value M&A transactions.

Pinsent Masons LLP is a leading player in the patents space, with a growing team working with a similarly growing client base. The practice, which is commended for its ‘technical expertise and legal acumen’ as well as its gender diversity, has vast experience in sectors including energy, technology and telecoms. IP and life sciences head Clare Tunstall's practice exclusively focuses on life sciences - alongside her leadership of the team, she is also relationship partner for key patent litigation clients; a notable area of strength for the practice. Noted practitioners included Charlotte Weekes, who heads up the generics and biosimilars focus group, heavy-duty patent litigator Christopher Sharp, and Allistair Booth, who leads the life sciences transactional IP team. Mark Marfé is known for being ‘technically adept in the software and telecoms space'.

Praised by clients for its ‘deep bench’ strength, Powell Gilbert LLP’s expertise spans numerous technical sectors, from pharma and medical devices to telecoms and electronics. The team handles an array of high-profile and complex litigation, two examples being Regeneron v Kymab and Unwired Planet v Huawei. Joint practice head, Penny Gilbert specialises in the life sciences field, which means she is regularly sought out by clients from this sector, while other practice head Simon Ayrton is recommended for his experience in handling heavyweight technical dispute resolution. Tim Powell is well-versed in representing a variety of clients in multijurisdictional patent litigation, with Zoë Butler’s strength in technology-related IP disputes, further bolstering the practice. Bethan Hopewell advises clients on issues arising from international technology standards, patent pools and associated licensing issues. ‘Impressive’ Ari Laakkonen’s broad range of experience encompasses FRAND obligations, licensing disputes, as well as general strategic advice. Peter Damerell specialises routinely assists clients on complex disputes that involve various technologies, with Tim Whitfield recommended for his pharma expertise. Alex Wilson, Siddharth Kusumakar, Tom Oliver, Joel Coles and Tess Waldron are also recommended.

Baker McKenzie’s capabilities include representing clients on a variety of disputes, including those involving cosmetic and pharma products, vehicle safety technology and telecoms standards for mobile devices. Hiroshi Sheraton leads the practice, focusing on the life sciences, pharmaceuticals and biotech sectors, but with the capability to handle mandates across a range of industries. Senior associate Tanvi Shah’s breadth of expertise includes both contentious and transactional matters across a multitude of sectors.

In the past year, CMS has advised on the issue of software and AI as a medical device, as well as a product launch strategy in respect of CBD products. The team boasts an impressive client roster in the telecoms, technology and life sciences fields, one example being Microsoft. On the non-contentious side, the team advises clients on the establishment of R&D collaborations and joint ventures in relation to patented technologies. The practice is jointly led by Mark Shillito, who has vast expertise in complex disputes, and Sarah Hanson, who has particular strengths in the life sciences space. Caitlin Heard specialises in technology related IP disputes, while Toby Sears strengthens the team’s SEP/FRAND capabilities alongside broad contentious and non-contentious experience. Joel Vertes is also recommended.

Recommended for its ‘great commercial acumen’, the Gowling WLG IP practice, which is headed by Kate Swaine, has key strengths that include tech patent litigation, SEP/FRAND litigation and work in the life sciences field, to name a few. Alexandra Brodie is noted for her expertise in the technology sector, leading significant cases in the SEP/FRAND sphere, while Paul Inman has considerable experience in pharma patent infringement and revocation actions. Further strengthening the practice is Patrick Duxbury, who is well-versed in handling transactional matters, and Huw Evans, who routinely handles life sciences and technology related matters. Luke Kempton is particularly active in the biotech and pharma sectors, and Jamie Rowlands routinely represents a multitude of clients in global patent disputes, being especially active in the telecoms space. Matt Hervey and Nick Cunningham are also recommended. Jonathan Ball departed to Norton Rose Fulbright in June 2022.

The ‘smart’ and ‘knowledgeable’ Herbert Smith Freehills LLP practice is experienced in high-tech patent disputes alongside transactional matters such as licensing, R&D development and various projects. The team is known for its expertise in the telecoms and technology sectors. ‘Superb’ practice head Sebastian Moore, who splits his time between London and Milan, fields a strong practice in pan-European pharmaceuticals litigation. Andrew Moir is well-versed in complex, tech-dependent matters, and ‘strategic’ Jonathan Turnbull is noted for his work in litigation on behalf of R&D-based companies. ‘Impressive’ Andrew Wells’s life sciences expertise means he is sought out by clients in this remit, counting global pharma companies in his roster and consultant Sophie Rich remains a key contact in the team. Emily Bottle, Emma Sherratt and Julie Chiu are also recommended. Peter Dalton departed in February 2023 to join Stephenson Harwood.

A team that possesses ‘very strong technical IP and industry knowledge’, Simmons & Simmons leverages its technical strength to maintain a strong practice in the healthcare and life sciences sectors, alongside communications engineering technology including mobile phones and infrastructure. Michael Gavey leads the team, with experience in advising some of the largest biopharma clients on numerous transactions and disputes. Michael Burdon and Scott Parker are well-versed in the realm of patent litigation, with the latter primarily acting for pharma and biotech companies. Angus McLean stands out in the fintech arena, while Andrew Hutchinson’s life sciences expertise further strengthens the practice. ‘Exceptional’ Priya Nagpal routinely handles multijurisdictional disputes that involve disruptive technologies such as medical devices, software and big data, alongside particular expertise in digital health matters.

Commended as an ‘excellent team’, Taylor Wessing LLP’s key areas of expertise encompasses the life sciences and hi-tech industries, regularly advising clients on a variety of contentious and non-contentious matters. The team is led by Nigel Stoate, who is noted for his patent litigation expertise, especially that which involves multiple jurisdictions across Europe. Patent litigation specialists Matthew Royle and Simon Cohen both possess considerable experience in the life sciences sector, while Alison Dennis is known for her ability to handle regulatory and transactional life sciences issues. Adrian Toutongi routinely assists clients with the negotiation and drafting of technology licence agreements, and Christopher Thornham’s capabilities include licensing strategies such as FRAND licence disputes. Another notable name in the practice is Tasmina Goraya, who is well-versed in a diverse array of contentious and non-contentious matters, from pharma regulatory issues to specialist agreements.

Covering the full spectrum of IP rights, Carpmaels & Ransford LLP’s ‘highly intelligent’ and ‘collaborative’ team is particularly noted for its expertise in advising healthcare innovators on EPO opposition defence and strategic prosecution. Heading the dispute resolution team is David Wilson, who is well-versed in the pharma and telecoms sectors, while Jake Marshall, who leads the IP transactions team, possesses numerous capabilities, from handling IP licensing deals to complex IP-heavy commercial arrangements. Ian Kirby has considerable experience in technology-related litigation. Camilla Balleny focuses on multi-jurisdictional patent litigation and life sciences-related advisory work. Jennifer Antcliff has successfully represented clients in leading life sciences cases in all courts up to, and including, the Supreme Court.

An ‘extremely capable and insightful team’, EIP is noted for its expertise in the sphere of FRAND litigation, with a significant success rate in the courts. ‘Totemic leader’ Gary Moss spearheads the practice, overseeing major litigation such as the recent win at the Supreme Court for Conversant and Unwired Planet in the Unwired Planet v Huawei and Conversant Wireless v Huawei cases. Andrew Sharples routinely represents clients in FRAND trials, and ‘highly recommended’ Robert Lundie Smith’s capabilities also extends to various issues such as litigating on medical devices and user interfaces. Kathleen Fox Murphy enjoys a strong practice in multi-jurisdictional litigation coordination, interim injunctions, infringement and validity litigation.

Particularly active in the healthcare, tech, consumer and industrial sectors, Linklaters LLP’s capabilities include cross-border patent disputes, alongside a strong non-contentious practice where the team advises on a variety of matters, including licensing and R&D agreements. Practice head Ian Karet is known for his litigation experience, especially within the pharma and tech sectors. Yohan Liyanage is well-versed in both patent litigation disputes and complex non-contentious mandates. Managing associate Stephanie Farrington’s expertise in the healthcare and life sciences arena means she routinely operates on complex, cross-border patent litigation.

On account of its expertise in the life sciences field, ‘excellent’ Marks & Clerk counts large pharma and biotech companies in its roster. Steering the practice is Mike Gilbert, whose patent litigation experience in the biotech, pharma and chemical sectors means he acts for numerous high profile biopharmaceutical clients. ‘Exceptionally experienced’ key contact Dafydd Bevan is active in the electronics, software, telecoms and mechanical sectors and is well-versed in high-tech and engineering patent litigation. Graham Burnett-Hall is noted for his ability to handle highly technical mandates, while Charlie Balme regularly handles patent and licensing disputes in the life sciences field. Associate Tom Taylor adds to the firm’s litigation expertise. Trevor Crosse departed in November 2022 to Osborne Clarke LLP.

An ‘excellent team with huge experience’, Mishcon de Reya LLP’s capabilities include the full gamut of contentious and non-contentious issues, assisting clients from technology-rich sectors such as pharma, telecoms and engineering. Steering the team is David Rose, who specialises in rights protection and enforcement programmes across a variety of IP, alongside possessing vast experience in litigation. Key contact Campbell Forsyth, regarded as a ‘force to be reckoned with’, is well-versed in issues such as cross-border strategy and exploitation, among others. Jeremy Hertzog routinely represents clients in the fields of pharma, technology, software, fashion and luxury goods, whilst Gareth Dickson is noted for his expertise in handling the resolution of disputes for innovators and entrepreneurs, as well as his work in the technology sector. Patrick Farrant is particularly active in the life sciences space. Counsel Justin Lambert is another name to note.

A team noted for its deep sector expertise, Osborne Clarke LLP’s practice has recently been involved in mandates involving FRAND and SEP litigation. Experienced litigation specialist Arty Rajendra leads the department, while Tim Harris is noted for his expertise in the life sciences, pharma and biotech sectors. Will James bolsters the practice with his capabilities in handling litigation for large tech-driven companies, notably in the life sciences, electronics and medical devices fields. Trevor Crosse joined from Marks & Clerk in October 2022.

Counting big pharma and biotech clients in its roster, ‘excellent’ Stephenson Harwood fields a strong practice in the life sciences arena, alongside notable expertise in handling cross-border litigation. Its key areas of work include advising clients on complex licensing arrangements and other transactions, as well as any disputes that arise from these. Practice head Alexandra Pygall is praised by clients for her ability to provide ‘commercial advice’ as well as her ‘great knowledge of the law’. Naomi Leach is well-versed in complex IP licensing and collaboration agreements, and Rob Jacob’s extensive litigation experience is recommended, notably on a global scale and routinely involving cutting-edge issues. Peter Dalton joined the team in February 2023 from Herbert Smith Freehills LLP.

Wiggin LLP’s ‘friendly and engaging’ team is renowned for its technology and media sector expertise and is also capable of acting across a diverse range of other sectors, from film and music to pharma and gaming. Leading the practice is Sara Ashby, who advises on patent enforcement and strategy with extensive experience in the litigation sphere. Key contact Calum Smyth’s range of expertise encompasses software patentability, technology transactions, brand protection, M&A and structuring issues, whilst Michael Browne’s broad experience extends from patent entitlement disputes and various other proceedings, to drafting and negotiating joint development, licensing and franchise agreements. Associates Georgina Hart and Sinclaire Marber Schäfer are other names to note in the practice, the latter joining from Kirkland & Ellis International LLP in May 2022.

Regarded as a ‘hugely experienced’ and ‘innovative’ team, WilmerHale maintains a strong practice in the tech space, handling numerous different types, from mobile phones to pharma products. Recent examples of contentious work include some large multijurisdictional patent litigation, working on cutting-edge SEP/FRAND issues. Justin Watts helms the team with vast experience in litigation, being particularly active in the pharma, medical devices, biotech, communications and hardware and software industries. ‘Calm and motivating team builder’ Anthony Trenton routinely leads on complex litigation, and Matthew Shade also possesses capabilities across pharma, medical devices, consumer electronics and technology spaces. ‘Clear star of the future’ Annsley Merelle Ward, who was promoted to partner in January 2023, counts innovative technology companies in her roster; she also possesses significant expertise in cross-border litigation. Associate Christina Guazzi is also recommended for her capabilities across life sciences and consumer electronics sectors.

Arnold & Porter’s expertise centres on patent litigation, noted for their work in handling long-standing mandates in the life sciences sector. Beatriz San Martin helms the practice, enhancing the practice with her vast experience in the life sciences field alongside an ability to handle various technologies. Ewan Townsend counts various biotechnology and pharma companies in his client roster, while associate Shishu Chen routinely advises clients on enforcing and defending patents.

Recommended by clients for its ‘deepness of knowledge’, Dentons is known for its work in the UK courts, having handled various High Court proceedings. Justin Hill helms the practice, often acting for world class tech companies in patent portfolio matters. Counsel Marie Jansson-Heek has advised clients on opposition and appeal proceedings, while senior associate James Marsden’s experience encompasses enforcement and licensing advisory work.

‘Superb’ AA Thornton’s expertise encompasses patent disputes, patent prosecution and opposition work, as well as the management of global patent portfolios. Practice head Geoff Hussey routinely advises clients in relation to IP ownership structures and licensing, amongst other matters. Other recommended lawyers include Adrian Bennett, Craig Turner and Mike Jennings, who all possesses extensive litigation experience. Daniel Byrne has worked on telecoms, pharma and renewable energy patent litigation.

Clifford Chance LLP’s broad offering encompasses an array of advisory, disputes and transactional work. Stephen Reese helms the ‘excellent and engaging’ practice with considerable experience advising clients on both contentious and non-contentious aspects as well as being particularly active in the healthcare and life sciences sectors, while Vanessa Marsland is well-versed in handling brand-related patent work. Don McCombie joined in June 2022 from Ashurst, bolstering the practice with expertise in handling IP disputes and transactions.

Clyde & Co maintains a strong niche offering, handling matters on the generic side of the life sciences sector, as well as being active in the veterinary field, advising on cancer treatments and fungal infections. The ‘very experienced’ team also handles transactional matters, conduct patent freedom-to-operate and due diligence related work. Practice head Ralph Cox regularly advises biotech and pharma companies, particularly in the veterinary field, while Chris Williams is active across a multitude of sectors, including marine, energy and natural resources.

In the fields of IoT and 5G technologies, as well as the wider litigation and licensing arenas, DLA Piper is notably experienced in handling standard essential patents. The ‘commercially aware’ team is also particularly active in the life sciences sector. Ruth Hoy spearheads the practice, with Deborah Bould’s expertise in patent and trade secret advisory, transactions and disputes, often handling multijurisdictional matters bolstering the practice. Rebecca Lawrence is recommended for her expertise in patent litigation.

Recent highlights of Fieldfisher’s practice is capable of advising clients on numerous patent infringement disputes. Tommy McKenna leads the practice, with experience acting for high profile clients in a variety of disputes. Senior associate Christopher Leung’s strengths lie in the life sciences field, and he is well-versed in handling patent proceedings. Former practice head David Knight departed the team to join Brown Rudnick LLP in November 2022.

Capable of handling patent disputes, licensing and agreements, Lewis Silkin’s patent practice is particularly active in the life sciences, manufacturing, technology, retail and media sectors. The practice is led by Tom Gaunt, who has considerable experience assisting clients with mechanical, electrical and software patents. Antony Craggs focuses on patent litigation, whilst Paul Williams strengthens the team with his background in the chemistry sphere.

Recently established in 2021, Potter Clarkson LLP has boasted its practice with the addition of large pharma clients to its roster, as well as an increasingly involved in complex litigation concerning issues of mechanical patents, amongst others. The practice includes lawyers based in both London and Nottingham. Practice heads Mark Kramer, Nick McDonald and Richard Roberts all have extensive experience in the litigation sphere. Oliver Laing’s strengths are prominent in the non-contentious side of the practice.

Routinely assisting a variety of clients, including universities and start-up companies, Venner Shipley LLP’s patent practice is capable of handling patent portfolio and licensing issues. Practice head James Tumbridge is well-versed in IP disputes, as well as a more niche expertise in IP government relations advice. Robert Peake is another key name to note.

The Yorkshire-based patent practice of Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP is praised for its expertise across an array of sectors, from consumer goods to technology, as well as its ability to handle work in a ‘critical and intelligent manner’. James Love leads the team, with extensive experience in litigation, while Isabel Davies and associate Rose Smalley-Gordon are also recommended.

Capable of acting for a range of clients, from blue-chip multinationals to emerging technology companies, ‘reliable’ Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has particular expertise in regard to international licensing deals. Practice head Mary Bagnall is vastly experienced in handling patent litigation in relation to a variety of technologies, while senior associate Caroline Young specialises in the commercialisation of IP and technology matters.

Keystone Law is noted for its ability to handle complex disputes involving a full spectrum of issues. Simon Chalkley is noted for his expertise in managing transactions relating to the commercial exploitation of various IP rights. Rebecca Halford-Harrison bolsters the practice with her strengths in assisting chemistry-based industry clients. Lucy Harrold and Robert Pocknell are also recommended.

Norton Rose Fulbright’s patent practice advises clients from a multitude of sectors, from energy to technology. The team is led by Mike Knapper, contributing his considerable strength in the life sciences, energy and technology sectors to the practice. Jonathan Ball rejoined the practice from Gowling WLG in June 2022, enhancing the team with his expertise in patent litigation. Other notable names include Jane Caskey and counsel Farah Mukaddam.

Stevens & Bolton LLP is notably experienced in patent licensing, working across numerous sectors including life sciences, technology, and consumer and luxury goods. Tom Lingard leads the ‘professional’ and ‘responsive’ practice; he is well-versed in handling patent matters in the technology, media, manufacturing and sport sectors, while Charlotte Tillett strengthens the team with her expertise in the life sciences sector. Senior associate Tom Collins is also recommended.