Intellectual Property: London

THE SET 11 South Square is a byword for excellence and range when it comes to advocacy and opinions concerning IP matters. The members here are famed for their skill at handling heavyweight patent litigation, and high-stakes copyright, trade mark and soft IP cases are undertaken and prosecuted with the same precision. Clients and instructing solicitors queued up to lavish praise on the clerks, deeming them "helpful, switched-on and efficient."

SILKS Henry Carr QC is "a smooth, first-class performer who makes it look effortless." "An excellent advocate who easily gets to grips with complicated issues," he is a seasoned veteran of significant copyright, patent, trade mark and design rights cases before courts of all levels. He is also deputy chairman of the Copyright Tribunal.

Iain Purvis QC is "unflappable, highly intelligent and very effective in court" according to sources. "Unfazed by the Bench," he excels at all manner of contentious IP matters, from pharmaceutical and telecoms patent battles to trade mark and copyright disputes.

Praised for his "great determination and drive" and his "first-class ability to get to the core of an issue and to give a confident opinion," Michael Silverleaf QC is widely considered one of the finest senior barristers at the IP Bar, not least for cases which have a media and entertainment bent to them. He is widely revered as is patent and trade mark specialist Mark Vanhegan QC, a man lauded for his "great attention to detail" and "good court manner," as well as his "creativity and astute commercial analysis." He has had years of experience litigating in the sports and media arenas, and his recent cases have involved the likes of Lady GaGa and the FA Premier League. 

Piers Acland QC is quickly making strides following his appointment to silk, and is hailed as a go-to barrister for life sciences patent work. "Technically astute and very accomplished at European Patent Office (EPO) oral proceedings," he is lauded by solicitors and clients for having "a very good feel for how to present a case to a judge."

JUNIORS Hugo Cuddigan is consistently applauded for his "no-nonsense, commercial approach." Solicitors like him for his practicality as "almost before he looks at the legal aspects, he assesses the value of the matter to the client." Cuddigan is well known for his adroit management of high-profile music disputes as well as cutting-edge mechanical and electronic patent matters. His recent cases have included Football Dataco v Sportradar and the long-running Omega SA v Omega Engineering.

The "knowledgeable and consistently reliable" Giles Fernando excels in matters relating to the spectrum of IP rights. He is often chosen to lead in trials and is celebrated for his success in matters involving interim injunctions and in winning Norwich Pharmacal orders. He recently represented William Hill in 32Red v WHG.

Benet Brandreth impresses all round. Although an IP generalist, his knowledge and application of trade mark law is singled out for approbation. One source described him as "a very bright and determined advocate who is very good at persuading judges of the merits of his case." Brandreth has been instructed by one of the co-defendants in Force India Formula One Team Ltd v 1Malaysia Team & Ors.

Anna Edwards-Stuart is "an exceptionally hard-working, committed team player who really gets stuck into the hardest of cases." Commentators note that her keen intelligence attracts work normally considered above the level of her call. Adept at the full range of IP work, she is noted for her strength in anti-counterfeiting and life sciences patent matters.

Instructing solicitors find Richard Hacon's written opinions "clear and powerful," whilst further noting that he is "calm and thorough." His practice takes in all aspects of IP law, and he has recently undertaken a number of biotechnology-related oppositions and appeals before the EPO.

Kathryn Pickard, in spite of her relatively recent call (2001), has fought cases as sole counsel at the Intellectual Property Office (IPO), the High Court and the Patents County Court. As such she is in high demand, and solicitors say it is "fantastic when she lends a hand" in a case. 

Tom Alkin is tipped to be "a future star of the Bar." "Technically adept, thorough in his preparation and exceptionally driven," he receives instructions in cases ranging from life science patent disputes to music publishing and copyright actions. 

Jacqueline Reid is perhaps best known for her work in the fashion and beauty sectors, and has recently acted for clients such as L'Oréal and Jimmy Choo. She is also an authority on confidential information and data protection law. Solicitors favour her along with Heather Lawrence, who is a woman of unimpeachable scientific credentials with a keen awareness of a client's commercial position. Commentators are consistently impressed with her "intellectual yet pragmatic approach to litigation." Others at the set to gain praise include Brian Nicholson, who is universally acknowledged as an expert on patent cases concerning electronics, telecoms and software. His "mental acuity" is such that sources say he provides "the most thorough analysis you can dream of." He has been instructed by IPCom in various disputes with the likes of Nokia and HTC.

THE SET 8 New Square is the largest of the major IP sets, housing 25 barristers, nine of whom are silks. Chambers is perhaps best known for its members' knowledge and experience of patent litigation in software, telecoms, digital media, technology and life sciences, although this should not occlude the set's fine reputation for matters where copyright, design right and trade mark infringement or passing off are at issue. The quality of the members and the clerking team is such that, according to one source, "you know that if a clerk is recommending even a baby junior, that person will be up to it and will have been well trained." The clerks themselves are described as "helpful," "generous" and "very good at knowing what you want."

SILKS It is taken as axiomatic that Daniel Alexander QC is "one of the stars of the IP Bar." He has a "fantastic eye for detail," is "exceptionally bright and covers all the angles." It is noted that, as a result of his experience and his renowned intellect, he enjoys a "good rapport with judges."

John Baldwin QC is celebrated for his heightened "strategic and commercial" sense, his "excellent judgement" and for "knowing when to be aggressive or not." He is a seasoned performer when it comes to litigating high-value pharmaceutical patent disputes, but is equally at home with instructions relating to any sector and all types of IP rights.

In spite of his relatively recent elevation to silk in 2008, Richard Meade QC is now seen as "one of the leading lights of the IP Bar." Instructing solicitors are "very impressed at his ability to get to the heart of the issue," as well as his "relaxed and confident manner." He is at his best when deployed in patent and trade mark cases of fiendish complexity, as well as disputes concerning the music industry.

The "focused and effective" James Mellor QC "has the ear of the court and a good advocate's manner." In his element fighting patent, copyright and trade mark cases, he has particularly well-developed expertise in matters involving parallel imports and internet issues.

Michael Tappin QC, according to one solicitor, has "an almost disconcerting ability to get to grips with an awful lot of documents very quickly and start quoting them back to you." In court he is "a very clear and effective advocate, who is calm, thoughtful and confident." He is best known for taking on patent cases, although he is formidable in all areas of IP law.

Adrian Speck QC was an "outstanding junior" and is set to do very well in silk, having been appointed Queen's Counsel in March 2012. Able to "simplify complex cases that others cannot fathom," he has an unwavering instinct for what the key points in a matter are.

Peter Prescott QC is credited by commentators for his original mind and academic rigour. He has all but unmatched experience in IP cases of every hue, and has handled numerous cases involving copyright, design rights, patents and trade marks. Stablemate Martin Howe QC is an "understated and thoughtful advocate" possessed of an "excellent mind," according to sources. He has distinguished himself recently in a number of copyright actions, and is an expert on the confluence of EU and IP law.

Mark Platts-Mills QC is head of chambers. When handling cases he brings to bear his years of experience, his nose for the issues involved in a matter and a formidable courtroom presence. Commentators praise the "comforting firmness of his views," his passion and his skill at "bullying witnesses."

JUNIORS James Abrahams is well thought of for his skilful approach. Combining "gut feel" and thoughtful analysis, he is highly successful at getting results. Technically difficult patent cases are grist to his mill, and he is known for being "excellent at refining ideas and sprinkling gold dust on them."

"A star in the making," Andrew Lykiardopoulos' background as a solicitor makes him "particularly easy to work with" and someone who is sympathetic to the point of view of those that instruct him. A recent highlight for him was his role in obtaining a summary judgment on behalf of Sony in a patent dispute with LG regarding PlayStation 3 consoles.

Charlotte May "distils problems so that they can be very clearly and simply articulated." A purveyor of "sensible, commercial advice," she is in particularly high demand as an expert on the law regarding and at obtaining Supplementary Protection Certificates for pharmaceutical patents.

Peers and instructing solicitors find Thomas Moody-Stuart to be "first-rate at trade mark cases." Others single out his impressive knowledge of matters involving IT and its interface with IP law. A "good team player," he is considered "absolutely charming and helpful."

Mark Chacksfield is "a phenomenal asset to his set." A barrister with a fine record on the most critical life sciences, pharmaceuticals and software patent cases, he is known for being "very creative and someone who sees all the angles in a case." In short, he is a "good strategic litigator." Chacksfield shares a set with the "extremely bright and very personable" James Whyte, who is near or at the top of solicitors' lists for patent cases relating to biochemistry, genetics, electronic and mechanical engineering. Also popular, Henry Ward "gives you real confidence" due to his knowledge of the law. "Persuasive and compelling on his feet," he is experienced at complex trials surrounding soft and hard IP rights, and has appeared before the IPO, the PCC and the Court of Appeal.

Iona Berkeley is a published authority on copyright, design rights, trade marks and trade names. She also has extensive experience at litigating patents cases, and has represented clients large and small from across the industrial landscape.  

Other barristers find Lindsay Lane to be "an ideal co-defendant counsel," while solicitors describe her as a "very talented advocate who is very good on her feet." Her practice takes in cases concerning all IP rights, and her matters often touch on the interface of IP with media and entertainment law. 

Robert Onslow is considered to be "just great" when it comes to technically complex matters to do with copyright in software and the latter's development. He is also seen as one of the preferred senior juniors for IT-related disputes. His set also includes James St Ville, who handles matters concerning all varieties of IP rights. His practice, however, does have a special emphasis on cases regarding electronics, IT, communications and mechanical engineering. Observers state that he is "always an accommodating guy, who pitches in and has an eye for detail."

Isabel Jamal "knows how to cause the other side some damage" and has impressed many with the quality of her advocacy. She handles hard and soft IP cases with equal aplomb and wins plaudits for being "very client-focused" and for working well as part of a solicitors' team. 

Jessie Bowhill is "very helpful, approachable and is excellent before the trade mark registry," according to one source. Although, like most members of chambers, she is at home in cases centring on the spectrum of IP rights, she has extensive experience in matters within media and entertainment.

THE SET This set is famous for handling the most bitterly contested biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, pharmaceuticals and TMT cases of the day. If a heavyweight matter is science-heavy and IP rich, this set has the men and women for the job. Most members have science degrees ranging from undergraduate honours to PhDs. Not content with being seen as among the most formidable patent litigation sets, it has recently expanded its soft IP offering, a move that has already reaped dividends.

SILKS Simon Thorley QC is a "leading light of the senior IP Bar, respected by judges and opposing lawyers alike." He is lionised in all quarters for his magisterial track record handling heavyweight patent matters. In particular he has won much respect for his battles concerning pharmaceutical and life sciences giants. One recent triumph was Abbott v Medinol, a case in which he defended his client's patents against an infringement claim.

Antony Watson QC "has a great nose for a case" and is widely admired as one of the best cross-examiners at the senior Bar. Commentators note that he is able to grasp and master the most complex patent technology. He also sits as a Deputy High Court Judge and chairs international arbitrations.

Guy Burkill QC is a veteran patent litigator who enjoys great renown for his handling of electronic engineering, IT and TMT disputes. He has been particularly prominent in the recent 'smartphone wars', a series of strategically significant patent disputes between the major handset manufacturers.

Andrew Waugh QC's "very thorough approach" makes him an "excellent QC for technically complex cases," while his reputation as a "great fighter" ensures that he is an opponent to be truly feared. His recent instructions have mainly been high-stakes pharmaceutical actions, such as Human Genome Sciences v Eli Lilly.

Richard Miller QC is beloved by clients, one of whom remarked with delight how Miller had "assimilated the brief in a first-rate fashion, got the judge on his side, and got us the best possible result." He has recently shown his mettle in trade mark and patent cases, such as Jean Christian Perfumes v Thakrar, a case concerning Katie Price's perfume, 'Stunning'. 

The mainstay of Justin Turner QC's work is in the field of biotechnology and life sciences - as befitting someone with a PhD in immunology. He regularly takes instructions from the biggest names in the field such as Lundbeck, Novartis and Smith & Nephew. 

JUNIORS Thomas Hinchliffe is "a very thorough, capable and accomplished junior" who excels at highly technical patent cases, typically those concerning pharmaceuticals, life sciences, electronic engineering, mobile telephony and mobile computing issues. His aptitude for trade marks was also demonstrated in the recent matter of Datacard Corporation v Eagle Technology. 

Thomas Mitcheson was described by one interviewee as being "intelligent, articulate, unwaveringly polite, and charming to work with and against." "Unflappable when under the cosh," Mitcheson is a man of keen intelligence, who is roundly considered one of the premier patent juniors practising today.

Simon Malynicz joined Three New Square from Hogarth Chambers in 2011 in order to spearhead the set's copyright and trade mark practice. In this regard he has hit the ground running, having appeared in some of the most critical cases of the past year, among them Football Dataco v Yahoo, a matter in which he acted for the UK government.

"Thoughtful and clever," as well as "brilliant with clients," Douglas Campbell has appeared in a number of high-profile patent cases, such as Seiko Epson v DCI. He was also involved in the major trade mark infringement action, Hasbro Inc v 123 Nahrmittel, which concerned a perceived threat to the 'Play-Doh' trade mark.

Denise McFarland excels in matters across the IP spectrum, but is especially adept at copyright, confidential information, passing-off and trade mark disputes. She is "very good with clients" and is an "unflappable" and "very impressive" court performer. 

A favourite for solicitors among the younger juniors of the IP Bar, Miles Copeland already has an impressive string of cases under his belt. His main focus is patent cases, although he also readily takes on copyright and trade mark cases. He is described as "unstuffy," "bright and personable." 

Another "rising star" at the set is Joe Delaney, who in a relatively short time has become a battle-hardened veteran of the 'smartphone wars' between Apple and other mobile telecoms manufacturers. He wins much praise along with Geoffrey Pritchard, who has a rapidly expanding practice which takes in copyright, design rights, patents, trade marks and European IP law. His scientific background (PhD in Geophysics) makes him a popular pick for cases concerning oil and gas exploration, electronic engineering and mobile telephony.

THE SET Although unable as yet to match the sheer size of the top three IP sets in the tables, Hogarth has probably the most balanced and varied IP offering in the market, and has especially noted expertise in soft IP matters. Work on all manner of rights is taken on by members - cases on brands, copyright, confidential information, design rights, patents and trade marks are all undertaken. The set is very popular with patent and trade mark attorneys, and also with technology SMEs and multinational giants. 

SILKS Roger Wyand QC is "client-friendly and very good on his feet," according to sources, and is someone who "presents advice in a clear and uncomplicated way." He is as adept in the leading trade mark and passing-off cases of the day, such as Interflora v Marks & Spencer, as he is in high-value patent actions.

Alastair Wilson QC is a "tenacious and extremely good advocate," who has distinguished himself in a slew of well-known IP disputes, among them Lucasfilms v Ainsworth, a copyright suit concerning the design of Star Wars costumes.

JUNIORS Michael Hicks is a seasoned performer in copyright, patent and trade mark cases, whose practice has a strong emphasis on computer software and media and entertainment matters. He is described as "superbly clever - he will think about every angle so that your litigating ship is well positioned." Solicitors like him as he "is a pleasure to work with, has an incredible eye for detail and is committed to exploring all possible avenues" in a case.

Guy Tritton is "excellent" at covering all aspects of trade mark matters, and further has an excellent command of other IP rights. A "great cross-examiner" with knowledge and experience of commercial and contract law generally, he is a valued member of any litigation team.

Gwilym Harbottle has an "immense reputation for copyright work," with one source saying: "What he doesn't know about copyright isn't worth knowing." He is also called upon frequently for instructions concerning design rights and trade marks.

Amanda Michaels is strongly recommended for all issues relating to brand protection and trade marks. She works at the interface of IP and media and entertainment law, and also sits as a specialist trade mark judge for appeals to the UK Intellectual Property Office.

Andrew Norris has made great strides in forging relationships between barristers and patent and trade mark attorneys. He is best known for his soft IP work, but in recent years has devoted a large proportion of his practice to patent cases, such as the Convatec medical dressings matter of 2011.

Richard Davis specialises mainly in patents, although he is also a formidable expert on design rights. He is fairly unique in that he is a qualified UK and European patent attorney, and he is also a leading authority on questions of inherent patentability. Solicitors find him a natural choice for European Patent Office proceedings.

Jeremy Reed's practice straddles the marches of IP, IT, media and entertainment, and privacy law. Much of his caseload is concerned with issues surrounding misuse of internet and mobile telephone communications, trade marks and confidential information. 

Thomas St Quintin, a "confident and personable" barrister, is instructed in matters relating to the spectrum of IP rights. A recent highlight for him was his involvement in Football Association Premier League Ltd v QC Leisure, a case concerning the alleged infringement of copyright in football broadcasts. 

THE SET This business law set has a cadre of top IP specialists within its walls, among them some of the most respected members of the Technology Bar. The IP group itself is small but includes individuals who are capable of punching at the same weight as some of the very best individuals in the specialist sets. The full range of patent and soft IP matters is handled with great skill.  

SILKS Geoffrey Hobbs QC is variously described as being "stunning" at, and a "world authority" on, trade mark law. He is commended for being "very good with clients" and for his "fantastic all-round knowledge." It is therefore unsurprising that he is instructed in the most prominent trade mark actions of the day, such as Interflora v Marks & Spencer and Hasbro v Nahrmittel.

New silk Emma Himsworth QC is thought of warmly by solicitors who find her to be "very customer-friendly" and "happy to take things on at short notice." Her practice encompasses the full spectrum of IP, and she was recently instructed by Cadbury in a case concerning Nestlé's opposition to the former's intention to register a shade of purple as a trade mark.

JUNIORS Guy Hollingworth is someone solicitors "always feel comfortable putting in front of clients," and is widely admired as a "fantastic trade mark expert who is insightful and very hard-working." His caseload and client base are spread across an enviable swathe of business sectors, from media through software to retail and pharmaceuticals. 

Philip Roberts takes a keen interest in matters concerning copyright, passing off, data ownership, trade marks and domain names. He is "a fantastic, hard-working junior" and a "punchy" courtroom advocate.