Dechert

Firm overview:

Dechert is a global full-service firm providing a “seamless and streamlined service. We have no reason to change", says a long-standing trademark client. For large international brands, Dechert works closely with its established US practice for portfolio growth and protection from infringement. The London team serves as global trademark advisor to multiple industry-leading names in technology, retail and the automotive sector, tackling disputes before the EU and UK Intellectual Property Offices, as well as in the US and beyond.

For litigation, Dechert’s lawyers have handled IP matters before the Supreme Court and Court of Justice of the European Union, as well as matters that entail multiple simultaneous disputes in various territories. Described by clients as an “excellent” firm, the team boasts long-term relationships with companies such as Asprey, a British luxury brand which has engaged Dechert for more than 25 years for trademark and design portfolio management, including protection and enforcement matters.

Team overview:

Across nine offices worldwide, the firm’s IP practice totals 65 lawyers and agents. Dechert’s London IP practice is made up of qualified lawyers often encompassing the range of IP expertise in addition to trademarks, practising in patents, copyright and designs. 

Paul Kavanagh is partner and head of the UK IP team at Dechert. Kavanagh is the key individual for a number of the firm’s biggest clients and has advised on the clearance and registration for internationally recognised brands in fashion. 

A client says of counsel Nathan Smith, “we appreciate the insight that [he] has into our business and the collaborative nature of our dealings.” Smith has advised well-known fashion brand Asos in an infringement matter which involved proceedings in the Court of Appeal and satellite litigation and disputes in France, Hong Kong, the US and Germany.

Key matters:

• For robotics, automation and AI research company Robo Global, Nathan Smith advises on trademark protection and enforcement, as well as licensing its data to other parties. Robo Global created the first index to track and understand companies within the robotics, AI and healthcare industries.
• Smith advises Tayto Group, the largest British-owned snack manufacturer, on portfolio management, protection and enforcement of trademarks worldwide. The client’s large portfolio includes household-name snack products ‘Mr Porky’, ‘Ringos’ and ‘Real Handcooked’ crisps.

Clients:

Asprey, Robo Global, Tayto Group