Gold ranking for WTR 1000 2021: "the UK trademark elite"

WTR clarifies that “firms and individuals in the gold band are those that attract the most positive comments from sources. We have identified them as the crème de la crème; their success often hinges on reputations established over lengthy periods of time, something which enables them to secure the most high-profile, big-ticket work from the most prestigious of clients.”

In addition to the trade mark team's top-tier ranking, all individual partners in the team also feature as "recommended experts" in the 2021 survey. Notably, Partners Jeremy Pennant and Tamsin Holman are highlighted as "gold" experts for trade mark enforcement and litigation services and Jeremy Pennant and Matthew Dick are reported to be "gold" experts for trade mark prosecution and strategy work.

We are delighted to receive such positive feedback from our clients and colleagues and are grateful to those who participated in the directory research process.

WTR writes:

Whatever way you measure it, it’s clear that D Young [& Co] ranks among the UK trademark elite. It has eight practitioners featured in the WTR 1000 this year; a glittering roster of blue-chip clients; and all the legal and technical know-how needed for effective one-stop shopping.

Expansion has been a central theme of late, with increased fee-earner headcount and Munich office growth particularly notable – it never stands still, not least thanks to the energetic leadership of Jeremy Pennant.

As a practitioner, Pennant has “tremendous experience in the pharmaceutical sector, which he uses to get business-optimal results for clients”, especially in enforcement scenarios. Under his watchful eye, the firm has cultivated a formidable contentious practice, at the forefront of which are solicitors Tamsin Holman, Anna Reid and Matthew Dick.

“Tamsin and Anna are exceptional IP lawyers of the highest calibre who consistently deliver high-quality legal advice at a very reasonable price. Extremely responsive, practical and business focused, they and their colleagues are a cut above the rest.”

“Matthew goes above and beyond and is always prepared to assist on urgent matters that require immediate action. He diligently provides valuable, clear and succinct strategic advice that makes clients’ day-to-day lives much easier.” In terms of work highlights, Holman has recently been acting in High Court proceedings for SEGA and Sports Interactive in defence of a trademark claim brought by Manchester United FC; while Dick has handled disputes with third parties for Hard Rock Café and AkzoNobel.

Turning to prosecution, there’s a strong core of practitioners alongside Pennant in the Southampton office, formed by Helen Cawley, Gemma Kirkland and Richard Burton. A sharpshooter when it comes to administrative disputes, Cawley represents clients with passion: “Gemma is creative in advantageously negotiating resolutions and gives an outstanding and reasonably priced service.” “Richard is a smart operator who responds promptly with precise answers that are straight to the point. He is able to work through difficult and sensitive challenges, and is proactive, cost effective and commercially oriented.”

Jackie Johnson is a linchpin in London with a mature international practice: “There are no slip-ups when you’re working with Jackie – she always responds quickly and carries out her work in a pragmatic, efficient and timelymanner.”