Top tier for WTR 1000: "the gold standard for foreign counsel"

WTR clarifies that “firms and individuals in the gold band are those that attract the most positive comments from sources. We have identified them as the crème de la crème; their success often hinges on reputations established over lengthy periods of time, something which enables them to secure the most high-profile, big-ticket work from the most prestigious of clients.”

We are delighted to receive such positive feedback from our clients and colleagues and are grateful to those who participated in the directory research process.

WTR writes:

“Leading one-stop shop D Young & Co is home to a number of the United Kingdom’s wonderful experts, whose quality is supplemented only by their network of experienced foreign agents.

Clients are extremely positive about the way in which the group handles complex, international portfolios without charging huge fees – a capability that is largely a result of its genuine commitment to the personal touch, as one satisfied patron confirms. “D Young has provided high-level trademark dispute, clearance, prosecution, transaction and counselling services to us for almost 15 years now. During this time, I have come to regard Jeremy Pennant and the firm as the gold standard for foreign counsel. They are very responsive, capable, knowledgeable, efficient and thorough. The level of work and attention to matters that we see from them is extraordinary. They provide the perfect mix of legal expertise and guidance on the one hand, and practical, business-oriented solutions and recommendations on the other.”

Trademark and domain name maven Pennant is further described as “outstanding – professional, timely, efficient, commercially astute and practical”. “He steers conflicts towards reasonable resolutions, although he can also be a truly formidable opponent in court and is generally a pleasure to work with.”

Also active on the contentious side are litigators Tamsin Holman and Anna Reid. “Professional, diligent and forward-thinking, they both provide excellent value and always consider the business aspects of each matter. They are exceptional IP lawyers of the highest calibre, delivering high-quality advice at a very reasonable price. They and their colleagues are a cut above the rest.”

Matthew Dick bridges the litigation and prosecution offerings. “Diligent, knowledgeable and responsive,” he acts for a list of top players including sporting retailer Grays of Cambridge, in defence of which he recently mediated in a design and trademark infringement claim.

Trademark attorney Gemma Kirkland is “proactive, responsive, concise and practical, and understands UK law extremely well”. Time spent in-house at BP has given her practice a granular, commercial edge. Moreover, Southampton and Munich-based Helen Cawley has “a tremendous amount of expertise in UK and EU trademark law”. “Efficient and pleasant to work with, she really earns the trust of her partners. Responsive and results-driven, she always takes business needs into account.” In addition, seasoned filer and pleader Jackie Johnson operates with great facility across Europe. She is in great demand, with top patrons including Sky UK continuing to enlist her services.”