Powell Gilbert LLP is in Band 1 for Intellectual Property: Patent Litigation

Simon Ayrton is a leading individual recommended for IP/General

Penny Gilbert, Tim Powell, Zoë Butler, Alex Wilson, Ari Laakkonen and Tim Whitfield are leading individuals recommended for IP/Patent Litigation

What the team is known for One of the best patent litigation practices in the world. A comprehensive IP practice which advises on the protection and commercialisation of all core rights.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)

"Tremendous - with their preparation, we did extremely well in court."

"Impressively deep expertise."

Notable practitioners

Penny Gilbert is one of the most celebrated patent litigators in the country, and acts for life sciences and hi-tech companies. She also assists with IP due diligence exercises and freedom to operate analyses. Sources say: "She is one of the most talented lawyers in London. She has great insight into cases and is very efficient."

Tim Powell is a solicitor-advocate recommended for electronics and life sciences patent litigation. His recent work includes advising on FRAND proceedings and disputes arising from the production of 'skinny label' pharmaceuticals.

Simon Ayrton advises on IP portfolio management and a wide range of brand protection matters, such as anti-counterfeiting actions and trade mark licensing disputes. He also works on high-value electronics patent litigation cases.

Zoë Butler is best known for patent infringement disputes within the telecoms sector. She also has substantial experience in copyright and trade mark litigation.

Ari Laakkonen is highly regarded for patent disputes involving telecoms, computer science and digital media. He is particularly good at co-ordinating disputes involving parallel proceedings in other European jurisdictions.

Tim Whitfield acts in patent disputes involving hi-tech electronics, pharmaceuticals and medical devices. He is also recommended for European Patent Office proceedings. One client says: "He has a fantastic grasp of the technology, is always mindful of the commercial objectives, and inspires confidence when under pressure in fast-moving parallel litigation."

"Standout" litigator Alex Wilson specialises in pharmaceuticals and hi-tech disputes concerned with patent invalidation attempts, infringement claims and the entry of generic products to European markets.