Intellectual Property
We work with a wide range of creative clients whose ideas, brands and products are successful in local, national and international markets. We deliver strategic advice which helps them profit through identifying intellectual property (IP) opportunities and protecting their IP rights.
Brand clearance, protection and enforcement matters are at the heart of our practice. We filed our first trade mark application over half a century ago. Today our award winning IP team acts for local and international clients in brand related matters across Australasia.
Our brand practice is part of our wider ‘soft IP’ and marketing law services. We help our clients with non-contentious and contentious issues around IP ownership, commercialisation and marketing.
Clients of the team include successful local companies such as Trade Me, Smiths City and Sealord Group, as well as international corporations and associates from around the globe.
Our team members are active in the Australasian and international IP industry, as members of IPSANZ and INTA; and are recognised by Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2023, Chambers and Partners 2023 and the World Trademark Review 2022.
What others say:
"Though full-service in nature, the group has dedicated itself to nothing else but intellectual property. No wonder it receives enthusiastic praise from its clientele: “They go above and beyond on service and are very easy to work with, in addition to being highly capable and good lawyers.” “They have all the intellectual firepower and trademark and litigation experience necessary.” World Trademark 1000 2023.
"The team is highly skilled and knowledgeable about IP law and litigation practice. The standout feature is their commercially aware approach to litigation. They are pragmatic and clear in their advice." Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2023
"The team at Duncan Cotterill have a unique ability to weigh legal matters against commercial outcomes and ensure that a sound equilibrium between the two is found when resolving matters. Whilst their legal knowledge is second to none they understand the need to balance outcomes with the needs of the business as well." Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2022
"Across the board, the ensemble gives “thorough and prompt advice, communicates it in plain English and anticipates clients’ needs”." World Trademark Review 1000 2022
“The firm has all the intellectual firepower and litigation experience you need. It very quickly establishes a definite commercial goal for a litigation and takes a pragmatic approach to realising it, which ensures optimal and cost-effective outcomes; it resources matters appropriately, too.” World Trademark Review 1000 2022.