FULL service Scottish law firm, Thorntons, has achieved its first appearance in the World Trademark Review 1000 (WTR 1000), a unique guide that identifies the top trademark professionals globally.
Founded 13 years ago, the WTR 1000 is a tool for brands seeking stellar trademark expertise and partners worldwide.
Individual practitioners, law firms and trademark attorney practices qualify for inclusion solely after receiving sufficient positive feedback from market sources. The results are presented in bands – gold, silver and bronze – to reflect the depth of expertise, market presence and level of work on which firms are typically instructed.
Thorntons was awarded a silver ranking from the 2023 version of the prestigious directory, with three of its solicitors earning an individual entry.
Alistair Lang, Partner and Head of Ventures and Innovation was ranked for his broad experience in IP and long track record of advising clients, especially in the technology sector, on commercial activity. Alistair, who was described in the list as a “transactional star”, has worked with a range of clients to protect and enforce their IP in international jurisdictions.
Liam McGonagle, Partner and Head of IP, who is dual qualified in English and Scottish law, was rated for his experience and knowledge of trademark issues. His WTR 1000 entry commented: “Liam provides very practical, pragmatic advice on protection and enforcement, often within tight timescales.”
Legal Director, Kirsty Stewart, who heads up Thorntons’ in-house trademark agency, and is a dual qualified trademark attorney and accredited specialist in intellectual property, was also included. Kirsty was described by the WTR 1000 as “knowledgeable, proactive, easy to work with and a top expert.”
The guide was created by a team of analysts who spent four months scrutinising the trademark legal services market, conducting over 1,700 telephone interviews with brand specialists across the globe.
Lesley Larg, Managing Partner, Thorntons, said: “It is a great honour for Thorntons to be included in the WTR 1000, regarded as a global authority on the top trademark professionals.
“Trademarking is incredibly important to brands of all types. Without appropriate protection in place, they are at risk of a variety of infringements including counterfeiting. Having a registered trademark also allows businesses to sell and license their brand.
“I’d advise any businesses with concerns about the trademark of their IP to consult our talent – and now world ranked – team.”
Thorntons, which has one of the largest intellectual property (IP) teams in the country, is among a small number of Scottish law firms with an in-house trademark agency. Technology and food and drink are key sectors for the practice, but its team works within a wide range of industries.
