Intellectual Property

Powell Gilbert is regarded as one of the best patent litigation practices in the world. The firm has a comprehensive IP practice which advises on the registrability, protection and commercialisation of all core rights. Its team is regularly instructed to handle the most cutting edge of life sciences and hi-tech disputes, and is recommended for trade mark, passing-off and copyright instructions.

"With Powell Gilbert you get the sophistication of a larger firm but the value of a smaller firm. The partners are very engaged and easy to work with and there is a very high level of communication."

"The team is excellent and the individual lawyers are super intelligent."

"The intellectual property team at Powell Gilbert is sophisticated and strategic."

Powell Gilbert is advising BioNTech on its patent strategy in the UK and Europe in relation to its COVID-19 vaccines. This also includes representation on two revocation and infringement actions against Moderna and CureVac.

Penny Gilbert is one of the most accomplished patent litigators in Europe, specialising in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. She has deep expertise across a magisterial sweep of technologies, not least vaccines, medical devices and antibody drugs. "Penny is a standout - excellent at growing talents and producing excellent work products."

Simon Ayrton undertakes a wide range of largely contentious IP work, focusing on trade marks, designs and copyrights. He is also able to handle FRAND patent licensing disputes. "Simon Ayrton is very strategic and always thinks two or more steps ahead." "Simon is fantastic - brilliant and very nice." "He is a brilliant strategist in cross-border intellectual property cases. He is experienced in IP litigation, including trademark and copyright."

Zoë Butler represents life sciences and technology companies in patent litigation and registry oppositions, often coordinating multi-jurisdictional disputes. Her experience includes patent infringement claims relating to medical devices as well as FRAND licensing disputes. "Zoe is very responsive and thoughtful in offering advice to clients."

Alex Wilson is a seasoned litigator and registry practitioner handling disputes concerning all core rights. He is frequently instructed by leading innovators in the technology and life science sectors. "Alex is extremely good and active in the market."

Ari Laakkonen is recommended for his expertise and experience with regard to telecommunications patent litigation, and is particularly noted for his command of the law concerning FRAND licensing. He has acted on behalf of clients before UK and European courts. "Ari is simply brilliant, talented, client-oriented and highly skilled in complex negotiation processes."

Bethan Hopewell draws on her background in molecular biology to expertly guide life sciences clients through high-stakes patent litigation battles. Her broad and impressive practice covers second medical use patents, diagnostics, small molecules and medical devices. "Bethan Hopewell is excellent. She is fantastic and a rising star."