Top 10 Influential Australian Copyright & Trade Mark Lawyers in 2023

Intellectual property law is a specialized branch of law, and understanding it requires highly skilled legal professionals. Here in Australia, the field of Intellectual Property (IP) has a multitude of gifted practitioners who contribute their expertise to this crucial area. Specializing in Trade Mark and Copyright law, these practitioners provide a vital service, protecting the rights of individuals and corporations alike. The following professionals stand out in this field, having made significant contributions and demonstrated profound legal expertise.

Understanding Trade Mark law and Copyright law is no easy task. It encompasses a broad range of areas, from brand protection, enforcement, design protection to IP commercialisation and litigation. These lawyers demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of all these dimensions, and their ability to navigate the complex legal terrain is nothing short of impressive.

Let’s take a closer look at these individuals, who are movers and shapers in the world of Intellectual Property law in Australia. Their backgrounds are diverse, their practices wide-ranging, but they all share one thing – exceptional professional talent in dealing with Trade Mark and Copyright issues.

Karen Hayne

Previous Firm: Addisons
Karen Hayne is a respected practitioner in the trade mark and copyright space. Her remarkable expertise extends across brand protection, enforcement, and design protection matters, and she demonstrates notable proficiency in the entertainment industry.

Elisabeth White

Firm: Baker McKenzie
Elisabeth White is known for her adept advice on trade mark litigation and demonstrates additional expertise in IP commercialisation. Her valuable insights have earned her wide acclaim in the profession.

Timothy Webb

Firm: Clayton Utz
Timothy Webb is chosen by a wide range of clients for his authoritative knowledge and expertise on contentious copyright and trade mark matters. He maintains a practice that is as versatile as it is effective.

Robert Arnold

Firm: Baker McKenzie
Robert Arnold showcases a wealth of experience in acting for global corporates in trade mark matters and copyright matters. His deep understanding of the law has made him a reliable advisor in this sphere.

Tim Allen

Firm: Allens
Tim Allen offers comprehensive services on a variety of trade mark matters, including portfolio management, general advice, and disputes. His wide-ranging knowledge continues to be of great value to his clients.

Andrew Wiseman

Firm: Allens
Andrew Wiseman runs a diverse practice that includes advising clients on trade mark enforcement and appeals. His well-rounded approach has led to numerous successful outcomes for his clients.

Jackie O’Brien

Firm: Norton Rose Fulbright
Jackie O’Brien has managed contentious trade mark and copyright matters with her established practice. Her extensive experience in representing clients on intricate and sensitive mandates sets her apart in the profession.

Nina Fitzgerald

Firm: Ashurst
Nina Fitzgerald is recognized for her excellent work acting for clients on contentious IP matters. Her clientele includes major firms in the pharmaceutical and technology industries, highlighting her wide-ranging practice.

Scott Bouvier

Firm: King & Wood Mallesons
Scott Bouvier assists clients on IP commercialisation and contentious matters. He is especially esteemed for his substantial work in the life sciences sector.

Frances Drummond

Firm: Norton Rose Fulbright
Frances Drummond is the global head of the firm’s IP practice. She acts for a variety of clients on trade mark and copyright matters, with her proficiency on trade mark portfolio management and the IP aspects of M&A transactions being of note.