Intellectual property is the lifeblood of London's creative, technology and life-science industries, from fashion houses and record labels to fintech start-ups and university spin-outs. Intellectual property solicitors help businesses and individuals protect what they create and enforce their rights when someone copies it.
The main rights are trade marks for names, logos and brands, registered through the UK Intellectual Property Office; copyright, which arises automatically in writing, music, software, images and film; patents for inventions; and registered and unregistered design rights for the look of a product. An IP solicitor in London will advise which rights apply, handle applications and oppositions, draft licences and assignments so that rights can be sold or shared, and prepare the confidentiality agreements that protect ideas before they are made public.
When rights are infringed, the capital is where most of the action happens. The Intellectual Property Enterprise Court, which sits in the Rolls Building, hears smaller claims with capped costs and damages of up to £500,000, while the Patents Court and the wider Chancery Division deal with larger disputes. Many cases never get that far: a well-drafted letter before action, a takedown notice or a negotiated licence resolves most infringements.
Businesses often use an IP solicitor alongside a patent or trade mark attorney. The solicitor handles contracts, disputes and litigation, while the attorney concentrates on drafting and prosecuting applications, and the two frequently work together.
The firms below offer intellectual property services within 20 miles of central London, with verified featured firms first and the rest ordered by distance. Read our guide to what intellectual property law covers or about IP solicitors in general, and if your company needs wider support see our business law solicitors in London.
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