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.’
Legal 500 2023
The Set
The ‘best intellectual property set around‘ for many, 11 South Square is consistently involved in the market’s leading IP cases, including an enviable number of high-profile first instance trials and appeals. Recent highlights include Iain Purvis KC‘s representation of Ocado in a substantial Patents Court action concerning Autostore’s patents for automated warehousing technology; and in one of the one of the most talked-about patent cases of recent times – Neurim v Mylan, an ongoing dispute involving Neurim’s prolonged-release melatonin formulation used to treat insomnia, Circadin – Mark Vanhegan KC appeared as lead counsel for Mylan in the Patents Court on a preliminary injunction application. This was subsequently followed by an expedited appeal of such decision to the Court of Appeal, along with an expedited trial of the main action. The rising star juniors to note are Mitchell Beebe and Kyra Nezami, who are both increasingly involved in high-profile IP cases.
Testimonials
Set
‘11 South Square is a great set with real strength in depth, and a lot cheaper than some of its competitors at the IP bar.‘
‘11 South Square is the best IP set around.‘