Intellectual Property

We help clients protect and exploit their Intellectual Property, both here and globally

Our roots have been steeped traditionally in the promotion and protection of creativity in the scientific, literary, artistic and musical sectors, both in conventional and online media. Our founding partners, between them, have represented and advised, over many years, scientific and academic journals, prominent publishers and authors, literary estates, playwrights, artists and collectors, photographers and archives, and those involved in and interested in the performing arts.

For more information on Intellectual Property, contact our Intellectual Property Solicitor, John Rubinstein.

Copyright Designs and Inventions

We advise on the exploitation of copyrights, designs and unpatentable inventions in any media; we also provide licence and distribution agreements for rights owners and licensees, and franchise agreements for franchisors or franchisees; we review copyright and design materials for possible infringement and represent clients in the resolution of disputes.

We provide intellectual property audit and review services to help our clients identify, protect and exploit effectively their intellectual property assets.

Through our Art Law practice, we advise artists, dealers and collectors on all aspects of art law including intellectual property rights, and droit de suite.

In litigious matters, we give preliminary advice, prepare and conduct the case, and assist in liaising with experts and specialist counsel for court representation.

Trade Marks

We offer clients a “one-stop-shop” for trademark registration; conduct or coordinating search programmes, advising upon and file applications, conducting or opposing opposition proceedings in the United Kingdom Trade Marks Registry and in OHIM (which is responsible for Community Trade Marks), or prosecuting or defending claims with specialist Counsel in the English courts. The Practice has extensive links with international trademark lawyers and agents and through them can coordinate international trademark and brand protection programmes in countries in Europe, the United States of America and the Far East.

Defamation, Privacy and Media relations

We offer pre-publication libel advice and the checking of works for invasion of privacy, data protection, copyright and database infringement risks. The Practice advises on relations with the press, broadcasters and online media and on managing the exploitation and dissemination of information. We represent clients in connection with the pursuit or defence of defamation claims and the disparagement of individuals and businesses, whether by alternative dispute resolution or, where necessary, with the assistance of specialist barristers, through the Court.

We routinely advise clients about Data Protection, including registration and compliance requirements, and provide representation in the event of breaches of the law. We also handle all other aspects of individual privacy issues.