Keystone Law

IT and telecoms.

Robert is a commercially focused solicitor specialising in intellectual property law. He spent ten years in private practice in a music and media firm, before becoming general counsel for six years for a mobile phone manufacturer and a further two years working for TomTom as their IP counsel. His clients range in size from start-up entrepreneurs to multinational companies. The areas in which he specialises are licensing of IP rights, including patents, trademarks, designs, copyright and know-how trade secrets. He advises on patent licensing issues arising in telecommunications standards (often called the 'smartphone patent wars', including GSM/GPRS 3G (W-CDMA) and 4G (LTE), in relation to handsets as well as femtocells. Providing advice on the creation, execution and implementation of Intellectual property strategies, with a view to protecting intellectual property assets and maximising their value. Providing commercial and practical advice to technology companies, from sole entrepreneurs and start-up’s to SME’s to larger businesses. Robert’s key achievements include advising a major investment bank on matters relating to licensing issues in wireless telecommunications. Advising a leading patent licensing programme in the field of 3G W-CDMA technology on contractual and licensing matters and potential litigation. Creating and assisting in the implementation of an IP strategy for a major telecoms manufacturer. Acquisitions of patent and IP portfolios. Managing complex multi-jurisdictional patent dispute, which included patent infringement claims in multiple jurisdictions including Texas, Wisconsin, the UK and the Netherlands; and negotiating successful settlement of the litigation. Negotiating significant claim for IPR infringement, trade secret theft, fraud and breach of contract against Microsoft Corporation.

Trained Gentle Jayes, qualified 1989. Sendo Holdings Plc, 1999-2005; Tom Tom, 2006-2007; Keystone Law, 2005.