Cripps is well regarded for its advice on the commercialisation and exploitation of IP rights as well as handling IP audits. The firm also assists clients with IP disputes and due diligence underpinning corporate transactions. The practice, based in Tunbridge Wells, is led by Irfan Baluch, who has particular IP portfolio expertise in the crypto, blockchain and NFT development spaces. Matthew Holman has recently joined the firm from EMW Law LLP and is well known for his specialism in data protection and information rights. Phil Bilney is well regarded for his experience in the technology and creative sectors.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Open and honest. They have a breadth and depth of experience which they are able to draw on in providing sound counsel.’

  • ‘A key differentiator is their ability to deliver brutally honest opinion and guidance. This is really appreciated, the team do not just tell you what you want to hear. A truly valuable 'critical friend' is how I see them and they have proved their value time and again.’

  • ‘We've enjoyed a successful working relationship with Cripps for many years now. They are able to support all of our UK focused requirements via their numerous specialist divisions. Everyone I've worked with at Cripps has a down to earth approach and an ability to break down and simplify the areas where we need their support.'

  • ‘Pete Kenyon as an individual is someone that I have personally trusted for years now. Pete possesses a natural ability to cut to the underlying commercial decisions to be made at the heart of any new job that we assign. I always appreciate Pete's approach which often involves translating complicated points of law into easily digestible facts to aid swift and effective decision making.'

  • 'Phil Bilney tends to be my general go to person at Cripps and he can be relied upon to quickly understand each new piece of work and help us to swiftly solve any areas of concern.’
  • ‘Great working relationship, good insights into latest trends. Turn work round quickly when we need them to. ’

  • ‘Committed individuals who are knowledgeable and specialised in their area.’

Key clients

  • Motorsport Network
  • Chapel Down Group PLC
  • Berry Gardens Growers Limited
  • Harrow International Schools Ltd
  • Remy Cointreau UK Ltd
  • Click Social
  • Flawless Holding Ltd
  • Electronuem Ltd
  • Habicus Group / SilverDoor
  • RDT

Work highlights

  • Advising Harrow International Schools Ltd on its trade mark portfolio and the related licensing of the Harrow brand to third parties.
  • Advising Habicus Group/SilverDoor on contractual documentation with international customers to ensure that appropriate licences are in place and its IP is protected.
  • Advising Electroneum on the evolution of the Electroneum ETN blockchain to support the development of smart contracts.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Irfan Baluch

Other key lawyers

Phil Bilney, Pete Kenyon, Matthew Holman