Keystone Law
Firm overview:
UK IP boutique firm Keystone serves international firms with London offices that lack the sufficient IP expertise to provide that specialised function for advisory work as well as disputes. A team that operates like a collaborative barristers’ chambers serves clients ranging from startups to multinationals, with particular expertise in complex IP disputes, often with an international dimension. Keystone offers an integrated service to clients, handling both their legal and dispute needs.
Team overview:
Keystone operates a flat structure with no heads of department. Core team members include IP litigation lawyer James Tumbridge, a well-known International Trademarks Association (INTA) leader described by a client as “well experienced and respected and a trusted professional that has helped lead me through various trademark challenges”.
Another client recommends Tumbridge along with IP lawyer Marcus Collins “for any help with trademarks”.
“I contacted them with an urgent issue and they gave good advice and acted incredibly quickly to protect my brand,” the client says. “I was grateful for their professionalism and expertise but most of all for their calm reassurance at a tricky time.”
A solicitor as well as a UK and European trademark and design attorney, Will Sander is highlighted by a peer at a full-service law firm, who says he’s “really good, commercially savvy”.
Key matters:
- National Rail Bishop Auckland: Trademark dispute with the Department for Transport (DfT)
Keystone acts for National Rail Bishop Auckland in a case concerning the ownership of the name National Rail and the old British Rail logo of tracks. The dispute arises from DfT after 25 years of peaceful co-existence seeking to assert trademarks and passing off rights, and raises issues of acquiesce and acquired rights.
- Porcelain Tiles: Commercial and IP dispute
Keystone represents Porcelain Tiles in a high-value, multi-jurisdictional dispute against Italian manufacturer Granitifiandre, involving commercial, trademark and copyright claims.
- Spabreaks.com: Trademark protection following rebrand
The team is assisting Spabreaks.com, the largest specialist booking and advising service for the booking of spa experiences and associated services in Europe, with trademark protection following a rebrand.
Clients:
National Rail Bishop Auckland, Noel Redding Estate & Mitch Mitchell Estate, Porcelain Tiles, Spabreaks.com
