Meet the IP Professional: Andrew Flaxman — From Ballroom Dancing to Startup Patent Strategy

From ballroom dancing and ten-pin bowling to guiding cutting-edge startups through the complexities of intellectual property, Andrew Flaxman has certainly had a diverse journey. Today, as a partner at Bristol-based IP firm Stevens Hewlett & Perkins (SH&P), Andrew is a passionate advocate for startups and a specialist in software, computing, and AI-related patents.

The Path to Patents

Andrew didn’t set out to become a patent attorney. In fact, it wasn’t until the final week of university that he picked up a leaflet that introduced him to the profession. With a love of physics, a knack for language, and a curiosity about the law, the role seemed like the perfect fit. He began his career in London before making the move to Bristol, eventually rising to partner level, and joining SH&P earlier this year.

A Day in the Life (Is Never the Same)

“There’s no typical day,” Andrew says. “I might be dealing with emails, drafting patents, speaking to clients, attending partner meetings, or at a conference. Every day brings something new.”

That dynamic workday is part of what makes the job so compelling—especially for someone who thrives on innovation and the unknown.

Championing Startups

Andrew’s enthusiasm shines when it comes to supporting early-stage ventures. He works closely with the SetSquared Bristol community and is especially proud of SH&P’s initiative Pitch and Protect, which awarded £10,000 in IP support to a start-up to help them get their first patent on file.

“Startups are looking for advisors who genuinely want to help,” he says. “We’re flexible and hands-on—being part of a firm that can adapt quickly is a real advantage.”

Debunking IP Myths

One of the most common misconceptions Andrew encounters? “Startups often think there’s no point in filing patents because they can’t afford to enforce them,” he explains. “But having IP can deter infringement and is a valuable business asset. It’s normally better to have rights than to have none at all.”

He also frequently hears from clients in computing and software who wrongly believe their ideas can’t be patented. “It’s a grey area, but certainly not impossible. I spend about 80% of my time working in this space. If in doubt, just have a conversation with a patent attorney.”

IP Trends and Tech Frontiers

Andrew is especially excited about the potential in robotics and automated systems—particularly when combined with AI.

“AI is already being used to help diagnose medical conditions, but we’re not far from seeing robotic surgery controlled by AI, even without a human surgeon. It’s incredible—and IP plays a crucial role in protecting that innovation.”

He’s also watching how generative AI is shaking up the IP profession itself. While some tools can assist with tasks like drafting, Andrew believes the nuance of legal language and strategic thinking still firmly requires a human touch.

Advice to Aspiring IP Professionals

“You need a strong technical foundation, but also great communication skills and an eye for detail,” he says. “So much of our work comes down to how we use words and what they mean.”

Keeping Skills Sharp

Andrew stays current the same way many of us do: reading articles, attending seminars, and yes—occasionally checking Wikipedia. “We learn a lot from our clients too,” he adds. “Conversations with inventors are often the best education.”

The Reward? Seeing Clients Succeed

“The most fulfilling part of my job is helping startups on their journey—from first filing to commercial success. You feel like part of the team, and their wins feel like your own.”

Fun Fact: From the Dance Floor to the Finish Line

Not many patent attorneys can say they were once a ballroom dancing champion, but Andrew can. Taught by his mother, he won several competitions as a child before trading dance shoes for rugby boots. He later became a ten-pin bowling champ, and today, he’s an Ironman triathlete who completed Ironman Wales and is training for his next race in Leeds.

If He Could Invent Anything…

“A time machine,” Andrew says without hesitation. “Not to go to the future, but to visit key moments in history—just to see what life was really like.”

🔗 Connect with Andrew Flaxman on LinkedIn
🏢 Find out more about SH&P at www.shandp.com

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