Independent editorial overview of the leading intellectual property (IP) law firms and practitioners in London. This guide highlights practices with strong expertise in patents, trade marks, copyright, designs, licensing, IP litigation and brand protection. Interested in a professionally optimised subpage for your firm or as an individual lawyer, plus a trust badge if you haven’t received one? Please get in touch via our contact page.
Firms and lawyers are selected from independent rankings, publicly available profiles and verified sources. Each entry names three key lawyers with one or two references cited as endnotes for transparency.
Top intellectual property law firms in London
- Bristows LLP London
One of the UK’s best known IP firms, especially in patents, life sciences, tech and litigation.
Notable lawyers: Brian Cordery, Sophie Lawrance, Myles Jelf.
Sources: 1
- Powell Gilbert LLP London
Specialist IP litigation boutique, especially in patent disputes in pharma, biotech and telecoms.
Notable lawyers: Penny Gilbert, Tim Powell, Zoe Butler.
Sources: 2
- Bird & Bird LLP London
International firm highly regarded for IP strategy, enforcement and litigation across multiple sectors.
Notable lawyers: Jane Mutimear, Morag Macdonald, Mark Holah.
Sources: 3
- Allen & Overy LLP London
Magic Circle firm with significant IP litigation and transactional practice, especially in life sciences and tech.
Notable lawyers: Nicola Dagg, Mark Ridgway, Sarah Garvey.
Sources: 4
- Herbert Smith Freehills London
Strong IP disputes practice including trade marks, copyright, patents and design law.
Notable lawyers: Joel Smith, Mark Shillito, Rachel Montagnon.
Sources: 5
- Hogan Lovells London
Top international IP firm with leading litigation and brand protection practice across multiple industries.
Notable lawyers: Paul Brown, David Stone, Katie McConnell.
Sources: 6
- Slaughter and May London
Magic Circle firm focusing on corporate IP, licensing, transactions and strategic advice.
Notable lawyers: David Dembo, Ben Kingsley, Verity Egerton-Doyle.
Sources: 7
- Gowling WLG London
International firm with strong trade mark and patent teams, active in litigation and portfolio management.
Notable lawyers: Gordon Harris, John Coldham, Alexandra Brodie.
Sources: 8
- DWF Law LLP London
National firm with growing IP practice advising on brand protection, licensing and disputes.
Notable lawyers: Stewart Room, Jonathan Moss, Katy Doan.
Sources: 9
- Mishcon de Reya LLP London
High profile firm with active IP disputes team handling media, brand protection and commercial IP.
Notable lawyers: Sally Britton, Lewis Cohen, Adam Rose.
Sources: 10
Frequently asked questions
What areas does IP law cover
It includes patents, trade marks, copyright, design rights, trade secrets, licensing and disputes over intellectual property ownership and infringement.
Can I protect my brand internationally
Yes. Trade marks can be registered across multiple jurisdictions, either nationally or through systems such as the EUIPO or WIPO’s Madrid Protocol.
What courts hear IP disputes in London
Key forums include the High Court’s Intellectual Property Enterprise Court (IPEC) and the Chancery Division of the High Court.
Do I need a solicitor or a patent attorney
Solicitors and barristers typically handle litigation. Patent attorneys manage filings and prosecution. Many firms integrate both for comprehensive service.
Can IP disputes be resolved without court
Yes. Mediation, arbitration and negotiated settlements are common, saving time and costs.
How long does IP protection last
Patents generally last 20 years, trade marks can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years, and copyright usually lasts the life of the creator plus 70 years.
How do I enforce my IP rights
Through cease and desist letters, negotiation, or court proceedings for injunctions and damages. Customs authorities can also help prevent counterfeit imports.
Are London IP firms internationally ranked
Yes. Many are ranked by Chambers, Legal 500 and IAM Patent 1000 for their global IP practices.
What is a licensing agreement
It is a contract granting permission to use intellectual property under specified terms such as royalties, duration and exclusivity.
What factors matter when choosing an IP lawyer
Experience in your industry sector, litigation track record, commercial understanding and independent directory recognition.
Endnotes
- Bristows intellectual property services. Source: Bristows.
- Powell Gilbert official site. Source: Powell Gilbert.
- Bird & Bird IP overview. Source: Bird & Bird.
- Allen & Overy intellectual property. Source: Allen & Overy.
- Herbert Smith Freehills IP practice. Source: HSF.
- Hogan Lovells IP overview. Source: Hogan Lovells.
- Slaughter and May IP services. Source: Slaughter and May.
- Gowling WLG IP overview. Source: Gowling WLG.
- DWF intellectual property. Source: DWF.
- Mishcon de Reya IP overview. Source: Mishcon de Reya.
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