A reputation for firsts

Never content to do the bare minimum, Bristows has always been a firm at the forefront of change and one dedicated to its clients and colleagues

1837

Robert Wilson founds the law firm known today as Bristows. Patent agreements are drafted for the first practical electrical telegraph, beginning our distinguished record in technology law.

14

current top tier rankings or awards in our key disciplines and sector specialisms

"Consistency, visibility and extremely high quality define market-leading IP boutique Bristows"

Juve UK 2022

International

Bristows opened its first international office in Brussels in May 2018, followed by Dublin in September 2023 to support clients in matters relating to EU law. Bristows (Ireland) was set up to support clients in matters relating to the UPC.

“Bristows is undoubtedly one of the most well-renowned and experienced TMT/Intellectual Property firms in the UK.”

Legal 500 2022

1934

Our business continues to flourish with our engagement by AT&T to negotiate and draft agreements for the laying of the first transatlantic telephone cable.

Our international focus remains strong. Over the last three years, approximately 60% of our income has come from overseas clients.

1985

We handle the first-ever UK biotech case. Representing Genentech over the use of tPA in treating haemophilia puts us firmly in the top echelon of specialist life sciences adviser.

We’re proud to be one of the City’s most gender-diverse firms and the appointment of our first female partner in 1987 is a key milestone. More than 30 years later, nearly one in three Bristows partners is a woman.

A*

for peer support and partner approachability in Legal Cheek survey.

“They're incredibly practical, contextually astute and do an excellent job educating and thinking about complicated legal situations in a way that allows for forward momentum.”

Chambers and Partners 2022

90%

of our partners are recommended by industry league tables such as Chambers, Legal 500 or IAM Patent 1000.