Media IP disputes
Intellectual property (IP) can be an important asset for any
business but particularly so in the media sector. IP includes
intangible assets such as copyright, trade marks, confidential
information and database rights. To maximise the value of IP,
businesses should take steps to protect, enforce and uphold their
IP rights.
Our service
We are experienced in all forms of dispute resolution, from
mediation to expert determination and, where necessary, litigation.
We have extensive experience of advising on a whole range of IP
disputes, ranging from the unauthorised use of copyright works
online to enforcing royalty provisions and use restrictions in
licence agreements. We aim to resolve disputes quickly and
inexpensively, and regularly use innovative fee structures and
avenues of alternative dispute resolution.
We advise (and educate) clients on strategies to avoid disputes
escalating where possible and, where it is in the interests of
clients, seek to resolve disputes as quickly and inexpensively as
possible by the most appropriate means including, where
appropriate, alternative dispute resolution methods. However, when
necessary, we have the experience and ability to conduct the most
complex cases and have an excellent track record.
Our experience
We have represented clients in a diverse range of disputes
before all the UK and EU tribunals, and have conducted cases before
the Copyright Tribunal, the High Court in London, the Court of
Appeal and the European Court of Justice. We also manage IP
disputes in many other jurisdictions worldwide on behalf of our
clients.
Examples of recent cases on which we have advised include:
- Acting for the company managing the brand of leading singer in
a trade mark infringement and passing off dispute in respect of
unauthorised CDs
- Undertaking the world-wide anti-counterfeiting programme on
behalf of a high profile celebrity couple
- Advising an Indian music licensing company in respect of
Copyright Tribunal and ECJ cases on the issue of reasonable licence
fees payable by FM radio stations
- Advising a music publisher in respect of a copyright dispute
with a well-known UK film production company
- Advising a well-known independent television production company
in respect of a copyright infringement dispute
- Advising a well-known gaming company on anti-counterfeiting
issues