Intellectual Property

We advise on the IP aspects of our client’s most complex and business-critical projects, including contracts, technology adoption, transactions and disputes.

Our team possesses a deep understanding of the intricacies of intellectual property law and its practical application in various industries. Whether your project is a standalone initiative or part of a larger transaction, we are equipped to navigate the complexities involved. We leverage our expertise to protect your innovations and maximise the value of your intellectual assets, ensuring that your business remains competitive and secure.

By tailoring our approach to meet the unique needs of each client, we deliver a robust and cost-effective service. Our commitment is to provide strategic advice that not only safeguards your intellectual property but also enhances your business objectives, enabling you to capitalise on opportunities and mitigate risks effectively.

What sets us apart?

Global presence, local knowledge

Our extensive network of IP professionals spans all major financial centres, providing us with an in-depth understanding of intellectual property concerns across diverse markets and sectors. Beyond our local expertise, we excel in advising on and managing cross-border transactions and litigation. Our teams collaborate seamlessly across jurisdictions, ensuring that our clients benefit from a cohesive and comprehensive service. For our global clients, particularly those with an international presence, we offer the advantage of a single firm capable of managing all their IP needs, delivering consistent and strategic solutions worldwide.

Forefront of market developments

Our commitment to staying at the forefront of market developments ensures that we are always prepared to navigate the evolving landscape of intellectual property. We actively monitor and engage with emerging trends and technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and distributed ledger technology, to provide our clients with forward-thinking advice. Our proactive approach allows us to anticipate changes and challenges in the market, enabling us to offer innovative solutions that align with our clients' strategic objectives. By integrating our technical expertise with a deep understanding of market dynamics, we empower our clients to leverage new opportunities and maintain a competitive edge in their respective industries.

Sector focus

We have experts in a wide range of IP-heavy sectors, facilitating knowledge-sharing and ensuring our lawyers fully understand our clients’ needs. Our team comprises industry specialists with deep experience, relevant sector qualifications and a strong understanding of our clients’ technologies, products, and markets. We have significant expertise in key sectors such as healthcare & life sciences, technology media and telecommunications, consumer goods & retail and sports & entertainment, among others.

Our comprehensive Intellectual Property services

Advisory & strategy >

We provide comprehensive advice on all aspects of your intellectual property strategy, including deal structuring, investment strategies, business model design, transaction risk assessment, and the identification and securing of investible IP rights.

Prosecution >

Leveraging our extensive network of local associates worldwide, we facilitate filings in any jurisdiction through our local offices or trusted agents, with Clifford Chance serving as your central coordinator.

IP & Technology Transactions >

Our expertise covers every transactional activity involving IP assets, including mergers and acquisitions, collaborations and strategic alliances, disposals, securities, funding, IPO support, licensing, franchising, joint ventures, R&D, and the exploitation or resolution of settlements from litigation.

Enforcement >

Our team includes experts in both litigation and arbitration, representing clients before senior European courts in the UK, Germany, Spain, France, and Italy, as well as the EUIPO, the UPC, and senior courts in Hong Kong.

Key types of IP we advise on:

Patents
We provide comprehensive advice on securing and enforcing patents to protect your inventions and innovations across multiple jurisdictions, including our significant experience at the Unified Patent Court (UPC).

Trade secrets
Our experts help you implement strategies to protect confidential business information and maintain competitive advantage.

Copyright
We offer guidance on copyright protection to secure your creative works and manage licensing agreements effectively, including navigating challenges and opportunities posed by AI technologies.

Design rights
We advise on protecting the aesthetic aspects of your products through design rights, ensuring your designs remain exclusive.

Trade marks
Our team assists in registering and defending trade marks to safeguard your brand identity and ensure market distinction.

Our insights

IP Insights

Read the latest news and insights on patents, trademarks, copyright and other areas related to IP protection as well as the latest court decisions, legislation, and the impact of hot topics like AI, the UPC and trade secrets.

Find out more about IP Insights