The Patent 1000 focuses exclusively on patent practice and has firmly established itself as the definitive 'go-to' resource for those seeking world-class legal patent expertise.
Silver - Individuals: litigation
“Powell Gilbert is the go-to firm for the most complex patent litigation in the UK. It is renowned for its deep bench of attorneys who are knowledgeable, business oriented and client focused, and deliver practical advice alongside skilful advocacy.” Firm namesakes Tim Powell and Penny Gilbert are venerable litigators with distinguished reputations on the patent market for securing top results in big-ticket disputes. They lead an incredibly strong team who attract industry leaders embroiled in disputes containing challenging legal questions as well as intricate technology. Recently Gilbert has teamed up with Bethan Hopewell and Joel Coles to represent British biotechnology company NuCana in proceedings against Gilead concerning the validity and infringement of patents covering the drug sofosbuvir; the parties later entered into a settlement agreement and resolved the worldwide litigation. Hopewell earns praise from a number of sources for being “extremely knowledgeable when it comes to biotechnology. She has a strong scientific understanding alongside excellent patent skills, which she leverages to successfully take on complex multi-jurisdictional disputes. The level of support and attention to detail provided throughout proceedings is consistently impressive.” Coles is tenacious in his approach and unflappable when acting for industry giants. He is quick to wrap his head around the science, thanks to his PhD in biochemistry and molecular biology, and is also experienced handling electronics and mechanical engineering cases. Alongside Simon Ayrton, Zoë Butler, Tom Oliver and Tess Waldron, Coles worked as part of the team advising Ocado on its global litigation strategy and co-ordinating its multi-patent, multi-jurisdictional dispute against AutoStore. Ayrton is an IP all-rounder and a master of trial craft who does a superb job at getting teams pulling in the same direction to secure big wins. Butler is a quick strategic thinker who takes a proactive approach and operates best when devising solutions to complex legal problems. Oliver is committed to delivering a top-tier client service, characterised by close attention to detail, responsiveness and effective litigation strategies. Waldron is business savvy and ensures each tactical step she takes in a dispute is aligned with her patrons’ goals and needs. Making his debut in the guide this year, Rajvinder Jagdev has a sharp eye for detail, specialising in disputes relating to the fields of electronics, telecommunications and software, and comes recommended for his “fantastic litigation experience and persuasive arguments”. Philip Morris International is another A-list client of the firm; Alex Wilson, Tim Whitfield and Peter Damerell have been supporting the tobacco company in its global patent dispute with BAT. Wilson earns plaudits for being “a strong litigator with great experience; he is open minded and thinks outside of the box to develop convincing arguments. Alex also brings a high level of organisational skill, which makes him particularly effective at coordinating international litigation and guiding clientele through the difficulties of this process.” Whitfield is “a great support to have on side for multifaceted international disputes, thanks to his excellent understanding of the law as well as his scientific background”. Damerell is a steady pair of hands for high-value disputes and a leading voice on SEP/FRAND litigation who has helped shaped the space through his involvement in a number of the leading cases. Siddharth Kusumakar and Ari Laakkonen have recently partnered up to support AIM Sport Vision in patent infringement proceedings against Supponor, in relation to digital billboard technology. Kusumakar is “a very seasoned patent litigator with broad expertise in terms of technology and industry sectors, but brings particular expertise when disputes involve electronics”. Laakkonen is “a highly accomplished and experienced practitioner who takes an intense analytical view of key issues”.