Consultant, Solicitor London
Profile of Richard Willoughby

I’ve always enjoyed learning about new technology – particularly when it advances people’s wellbeing and improves lives. This is an exciting part of my work at D Young & Co, and I see every new opportunity to support my clients as a chance to enhance my understanding and experience.

I joined D Young & Co as a partner in 2013, having been partner at other leading firms since 2001. Throughout my career, I’ve represented high profile clients in disputes before the UK Courts, and in connection with parallel cases in other jurisdictions, including EPO oppositions.

I’ve worked on cases in a wide range of technological fields including life sciences, chemicals, electronics and mechanical engineering, as well as fast moving consumer goods. I’ve also acted in major design cases, and advised clients on a variety of other IP issues including confidential information and misleading advertising. I’m also experienced in the mediation and arbitration of patent disputes.

For several years I’ve been heavily involved in lobbying and consulting efforts relating to the unitary patent and Unified Patent Court, in particular through my role as Chair of the Laws Committee of the Licensing Executives Society (LES) (Britain & Ireland). I’ve also written and spoken widely on a range of patent and design litigation issues.

Awards

Ranked as an IPSTAR 2021.

Qualifications

  • BEng in Mechanical Engineering, University College London 1989.
  • Solicitor, England & Wales 1993.
  • Diploma in Intellectual Property Law and Practice, University of Bristol 1994.
  • Solicitor Advocate (Higher Rights Civil) 2003.

Memberships

  • Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA).
  • Law Society of England and Wales.
  • Intellectual Property Owners Association (IPO).
  • Intellectual Property Lawyers' Association.
  • European Patent Lawyers Association (EPLAW).
Big-picture thinker Willoughby is heralded by overseas commentators as an experienced IP practitioner with remarkable patent litigation skill in all technical fields, but particularly in life sciences.
IAM Patent 1000
Patent Expert 2018.
Expert Guides
He really knows the intricacies of UK courts and has the ability to think on his feet.
AIM Patent 1000
A strong patent litigator with form in chemicals, FMCG, life sciences and mechanical engineering cases.
Chambers
Leading individual in patent litigation 2018.
Chambers
UPC-savvy Willoughby has been juggling an array of contentious briefs.
IAM Patent 1000
He is very level-headed and is admired for his assured case management.
Chambers
Managing IP IPSTAR 2020
IP Stars (Managing IP)
A veteran of the patent litigation world who remains a vital asset in his role as consultant.
IAM Patent 1000
Patent Expert 2018.
Who's Who Legal
A seasoned IP litigator who has acted for market leaders from across the industrial landscape. He is particularly effective in patent and design rights cases.
Chambers
IP Star 2019/20: recognising top practitioners in private practice who have performed exceptionally for their clients and firms in the past year.
IP Stars (Managing IP)
Willoughby has an outstanding knack for swiftly familiarising himself with new technologies.
IAM Patent 1000