Intellectual property
Our range of services includes:
- high profile trade mark litigation;
- copyright/design (registered and unregistered) claims;
- data protection and database right disputes;
- advertising and copy clearance advice; and
- breach of confidence and privacy.
In addition, representing both claimants and defendants, we undertake general counsel/advisory, interlocutory (eg urgent injunctions), mediation, arbitration (LCIA and ICC), full trial and appeals work.
Although the majority of our work is in the context of commercial disputes and civil proceedings, we also have extensive experience of representing clients bringing or facing trading standards and other regulatory complaints and prosecutions.
On the non-contentious side our clients appreciate the "virtual in-house lawyer" model that we provide. Our premium multi-disciplinary expertise includes:
- devising brand protection strategies, advising on how to protect names (and domain names), logos, devices, packaging, get-up, inventions, concepts and other creative works;
- acquiring, reorganising and managing IP portfolios; and
- licensing, assigning and franchising IP rights, as well as preparing sourcing, manufacturing and distribution agreements.
Our expertise also extends to corporate transactional work, in particular within venture capital specialisms, where we regularly advise on deals that have significant and often complex IP issues.
Related practice areas
"Sources say: 'This is a well-run and well-regarded department, offering thoughtful and strategic advice'."
Chambers UK 2010

"Macfarlanes LLP has 'a close-knit, personable IP group' that is 'excellent, confident with technology and pretty much unflappable', with a strong stable of brands clients."
The UK Legal 500 2009


