Chambers and Partners 2025
The Set
11 South Square is a highly regarded set which is regularly instructed in technically heavy patent cases involving medical devices, pharmaceuticals and telecoms technology. The “technically excellent” barristers’ noteworthy trade mark practice also sees them act for well-known clients active in the fashion, leisure and technology sectors. Among other notable work, members have acted for Autostore in its multi-patent litigation in relation to warehousing technology. In addition, members have represented Philips in its patent litigation opposite Oppo. Barristers at the set have also represented Tesco in high-profile trade mark, passing-off and copyright infringement litigation opposite Lidl. A solicitor comments: “This is a great group of distinguished KCs as well as very capable senior juniors you can rely on.” Another remarks: “They handle the highest-value matters for us comfortably and are second to none in the level of expertise they offer.”
Client Service
“The clerks here are really sensible and pragmatic on fees. In particular, Ashley Carr and Sam Fullilove do a really good job navigating the complex logistics.”
“Ashley is flexible and pragmatic and great to work with.”
“Harry Eades is fantastic – very responsive and can’t do enough for you.”
Legal 500 2025
The Set
The members of 11 South Square are sought after by high-profile clients to represent them in intellectual property litigation before all levels of the UK court system, in addition to European fora. The set boasts a large volume of silks in its ranks, including Iain Purvis KC, who handles cases surrounding both patents and trade marks. Of recent note, Purvis KC acted for Tesco in a trade mark infringement case brought by Lidl surrounding the introduction of a new advertising campaign to promote Tesco Clubcard, at issue was the use of a yellow circle on a blue background. Michael Silverleaf KC is strong in cases that require knowledge of technical areas, including monoclonal antibodies, medical devices, and drug delivery systems, as well as wind power generation, automotive catalysts, and shipbuilding. With a scientific background, Mark Vanhegan KC has appeared before the Supreme Court in cases concerning intricate technology, and Piers Acland KC is well known for his pharmaceutical patent work, which is exemplified by his representation of Moderna in a patent trial against Biontech and Pfizer surrounding the Covid-19 vaccine. Anna Edwards-Stuart KC made silk in the 2024 round, and Edward Cronan joined the set from Hogarth Chambers, bringing particular expertise in the patent litigation space.
Testimonials
‘Sam Fullilove is an excellent clerk.’
‘Ashley Carr is very strong; you definitely want him on your side!’
‘The clerks are very helpful, in particular Ashley Carr, who will always be most accommodating and helpful when needed.’
‘Ashley Carr, Sam Fullilove and Harry Eades are responsive and helpful. Ashley in particular provides strategic advice on listing issues.’
‘Harry Eades is particularly responsive and pleased to assist whatever the query, whether its obtaining costs estimates from counsel or arranging lunch for the team during trial.’
‘The clerks’ room is excellent, Ashley Carr is particularly highly rated.’
‘The clerks are friendly and always willing to help. They answer the phone promptly and always seem to know what’s going on. Sam Fullilove and Boudi Iffland are both brilliant.’
Chambers and Partners 2024
The Set
11 South Square is a highly regarded set which is regularly instructed in technically heavy patent cases involving medical devices, pharmaceuticals and telecoms technology. The barristers’ noteworthy trade mark practice also sees them act for well-known clients active in the fashion, leisure and technology sectors. Among other notable work, members have acted for Autostore in its multi-patent litigation in relation to warehousing technology. In addition, members have represented Philips in its FRAND litigation opposite Xiaomi. Barristers at the set have also represented Tesco in high-profile trade mark, passing-off and copyright infringement litigation opposite Lidl.
Client service
“The clerks at 11 South Square are a joy to deal with. Nothing is ever too much trouble and they are always more than happy to offer non-typical solutions where required.”
“The set has the nicest, most responsive and helpful clerks I deal with.”
“Ashley Carr is a very strong senior clerk. He knows everyone, and where all the skeletons are. He is a good clerk to have on your side when dealing with the court. Sam Fullilove and Jordan Foley are also doing a great job looking after the barristers.”
Legal 500 2024
The Set
11 South Square is well-known for its work on leading IP cases in first instance trials and appeals, and its members are well-versed in appearing before the European Patent Office, General Court, and Court of Justice of the European Union. Iain Purvis KC has an all-encompassing IP practice, from patents to trade marks, and Michael Silverleaf KC is notable in cases involving complex technical facts, including monoclonal antibodies, medical devices, drug delivery systems, automotive catalysts, and wind power generation. Of recent note, he acted for the claimant in Original Beauty Technology Company & Others v G4K Fashion & Oh Polly, which concerned claims of passing off and infringement of design rights. With his scientific background, Mark Vanhegan KC is regularly instructed by high-profile clients across all levels of courts and tribunals, and he successfully represented Philips in a trial concerning the validity of two of its patents. The set is also home to patent expert Piers Acland KC, and Hugo Cuddigan KC, who has substantial experience in the music and entertainment industries.
Testimonials
Set
‘A strong set and among the strongest for IP.’
‘They are leaders in the field.’
‘The barristers at 11 South Square have a broad range and depth of experience and they instil confidence that they can resource any IP issue.’
Clerking
‘The clerks at 11 South Square are very helpful and engaged with matters to ensure smooth running. Ashley Carr is fantastic and always on hand if listing or availability issues arise and is very keen to smooth things over if unexpected availability issues do happen from time to time.’
‘Jordan Foley and Sam Fullilove are the best IP clerks.’
‘The clerking at 11 South Square is second to none. They are extremely responsive and flexible when the need arises.’
‘The clerks do a brilliant job.’
‘The clerks are responsive and friendly.’