IP disputes

JMW’s intellectual property team has a strong track record of resolving IP disputes in an efficient, client-focused way.  We handle disputes relating to trade marks, passing off, copyright, designs, domain names, social media accounts, patents and confidential information.

We are experienced at handling early-stage IP disputes, as well as litigation in the courts, acting for claimants and defendants in the High Court and the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court.  We have particular skill in handling trade mark registry disputes such as opposition and cancellations.

We take a highly commercial and pragmatic approach to resolving IP disputes. We are focused on achieving favourable outcomes for our clients, and we pride ourselves on resolving IP disputes quickly and efficiently wherever possible.

What we do

We advise on disputes relating to:

• Trade mark infringement and passing off
• Comparative advertising disputes
• Internet keyword disputes
• Copyright infringement
• Design infringement
• Breach of confidence
• Patent infringement
• Domain names and social media accounts

Recent Work

• Defending clients against allegations of trade mark infringement, passing off, copyright and design right infringement.  Acted for successful defendants in John Kaldor Fabricmaker UK v Lee Ann Fashions (a copyright and design case) and Gama Healthcare v PAL International (a passing off case).
• Representing a market-leading UK software business in a High Court claim against a competitor for trade mark infringement, passing off, unlawful comparative advertising and unlawful interference.
• Advising a premium UK fashion brand on a trade mark dispute with an overseas luxury fashion business, which was successfully concluded with favourable settlement terms.
• Representing a UK engineering company in a claim brought by an ex-employee for copyright infringement in software (Intellectual Property Enterprise Court).
• Representing a vape supplier in a High Court claim brought by a large competitor for trade mark infringement and passing off.
• Representing a vehicle care and accessories company in a claim brought by a competitor for UK unregistered design infringement, copyright infringement and passing off (Intellectual Property Enterprise Court)
• Advising on the protection of brands from derogatory and unlawful comparative advertising, including litigation in the High Court and several pre-litigation settlements.
• Numerous successful trade mark oppositions, cancellations and revocations, including AFFINITY (O/766/18), OLD JOHN (O/281/19), WILLIAM MORRIS AT HOME (O/0027/24), and WALLIS (O/0124/26).
• Representing a UK hair and beauty company in opposition and cancellation proceedings in the UKIPO.

Meet the team

JMW’s experienced intellectual property team has a strong track record of resolving disputes in a client-focused way.  We act for brand owners, national and international businesses, and owner-managed businesses.