Skip to content

Avoiding litigation is usually a better option than defending it. With their fingers firmly on the pulse of how the courts assess infringement and validity of rights, our contentious IP teams are ideally placed to assist in assessing the risks involved in any new project, no matter what the sector or technology.

Launching a new product or using a new process is seldom risk-free. At least a part of that risk can be managed by an assessment of the IP landscape. Whether the issue arises in a sector where the IP rights concerned are brands, or one where only patents are in issue, we can provide specialists in those areas. For international clearance we can coordinate advice as necessary.

If general freedom to operate advice is required, our contentious IP teams can arrange for relevant searches to be conducted, and then examine the results through the eyes of experienced litigators. Our regulatory team has extensive experience helping clients navigate regulatory requirements and exclusivities. If a particular risk has already been identified on which specialist advice is required, we can provide a bespoke opinion.

If a particular risk is identified, we can advise on the magnitude of that risk, how it might be lessened (for example by modifications), or whether pre-emptive steps might be taken to challenge existing rights and/or seek a declaration of non-infringement. Of particular concern may be that a product launch may be met with an application for an interim injunction. Again our wealth of litigation experience is crucial in giving the right advice.

In some cases it may be desirable to seek a licence to operate. In such cases, our commercial & IP transactions team can advise on the right type of arrangement and conduct, or help in the conduct of, negotiations as required.

In all cases we offer pragmatic, practical advice. We are also happy to accommodate the inevitable budgetary constraints by showing flexibility in fee arrangements.

Key contact

Ian Gruselle

Ian Gruselle

Contact

Myles Jelf

Contact

Experience

Global oil company: review of competitor patents in the fuel additive space prior to the launch of a new fuel product

Major innovative pharmaceutical company

Latest articles

What others say

“The Bristows team is very impressive at all levels, from junior associates through to partners. The team combines a fantastic technical ability with real commercial nous. They drive litigation efficiently and effectively for the benefit of their clients. They compare very favourably to other teams in the sector, representing all round quality.” 

Legal 500 2025

“The Bristows patents team combine outstanding technical ability with an impressive knowledge and understanding of the law, borne of a huge amount of experience in patent litigation. Everyone I have worked with, from partners to associate level, has impressed me with their comprehensive knowledge of the cases we have been involved in, both at the technical level and the legal and strategic aspects. They are also extremely hard working and run a well-organised and highly efficient operation.”

 

Legal 500 2025

“Bristows is the complete package. The team is always a joy to work with; everyone knows their role and does their bit to the highest standard. Excellent lawyers with strong technical knowledge and understanding.” 

Legal 500 2025

“My experience is of Bristows’ patent litigators, who are excellent. As a team, they are particularly good at a deep understanding of the relevant technology and applying that knowledge to tactical advantage in litigation.” 

Legal 500 2025

“With an ever-impressive client list, wide range of expertise across all industries and a high number of recommended partners, Bristows remains a go-to firm for clients wishing to litigate at the UK patent courts.” 

​JUVE 2024​

Recent rankings and awards

Intellectual Property: Patent Litigation - Band 1

Intellectual Property - Band 1