If you ask Stephen Mohun how he got into intellectual property, he’ll be the first to admit it wasn’t a lifelong calling. “I’m ashamed to say it was nothing more than a job advert,” he confesses with a laugh. But sometimes the best careers start with curiosity—and in Steve’s case, it sparked a lifelong passion for helping innovators protect and leverage their ideas.
Now the founder of Mohun Aldridge Sykes, Steve has spent nearly four decades advising clients on patents and trademarks, building a reputation for practical, strategic, and empathetic support—especially for those in the manufacturing and engineering sectors. His client base ranges from ambitious start-ups to global corporates, and his advice is always grounded in commercial reality.
“We always start with their bigger goals and work back from there. That’s how we build a real IP strategy—not just a filing plan.”
From Yorkshire Roots to Global Reach
Steve began his career at a local Yorkshire firm and worked his way through larger practices, eventually becoming a partner before founding the firm that became Mohun Aldridge Sykes. Launching his own boutique firm wasn’t just a career pivot—it was a chance to do things his way.
What sets Mohun Aldridge Sykes apart? It’s the depth of relationships. “We genuinely get to know our clients. We’re not just experts on the other end of the phone—we’re part of their strategic team.”
Intellectual Rigor, Commercial Focus
With a background in physics and a mind wired for problem-solving, it’s no surprise Steve is drawn to patent work. “I like understanding how things work,” he says. “Manufacturing clients, especially those in second or third-generation family businesses, are some of my favourites. They’re quietly innovating in ways they don’t always recognise.”
And that’s where Steve sees one of his biggest responsibilities: helping clients see the true value in their ideas. “Too many engineers dismiss their own work as ‘obvious.’ It’s our job to show them that what they’ve created might be valuable—and worthy of protection.”
Helping Clients Navigate Complexity
One of Steve’s great strengths is translating legal complexity into clear, actionable advice. “You have to put yourself in the client’s shoes. Legal jargon just puts up barriers. Our goal is to empower them.”
He’s particularly mindful of budget constraints for early-stage businesses. “The biggest mistake they make is spending too much too soon on the wrong things. We help them build a flexible, strategic IP plan that grows with them.”
A Trusted Partner in Innovation
Steve describes the ideal client relationship as one built on mutual trust. “They need to trust me to give honest, clear advice. And I need to trust that they’re telling me what’s really going on in the business.”
That trust has paid off—whether it’s guiding a manufacturing client into a leadership position through carefully managed IP, or helping a tech start-up secure patents in a notoriously difficult field. “That one surprised even me,” he says, recalling a breakthrough. “But we got there, and today those patents are their most valuable asset.”
Supporting the Next Generation
Mentorship matters to Steve. Mohun Aldridge Sykes welcomes interns and work experience students, giving them a real taste of the profession. “We’ve all had good careers in this field,” he says. “It’s important to put a bit back in.”
Staying Agile in a Changing Landscape
As AI and tech continue to reshape the IP world, Steve stays ahead by listening. “You’ve got to talk to people—clients, colleagues, other professionals—and keep your ear to the ground. The moment you stop adapting, you fall behind.”
His golden rule for entrepreneurs? Talk to your IP attorney early and often. “There’s no such thing as too early, but there’s definitely too late.”
Beyond the Office
When Steve isn’t advising clients or mentoring the next generation, you might find him on stage. A proud member of the Batley Gilbert and Sullivan Society, Steve regularly takes on leading roles—with his recent turn as the captain in H.M.S. Pinafore being a personal highlight. “Both my kids were on stage with me,” he smiles. “There’s nothing better than that.”
Get in Touch with Steve Mohun
With nearly four decades of experience in intellectual property, Stephen Mohun has built a reputation not just for legal precision, but for the kind of clear, trusted advice that clients remember. As founder of Mohun Aldridge Sykes, Steve blends technical expertise with commercial insight—helping innovators protect what matters and make confident decisions along the way.
How PatWorld Supports Firms Like Mohun Aldridge Sykes
At PatWorld, we understand that high-quality, professional patent searches are the foundation of strong IP advice. For firms like Mohun Aldridge Sykes—who focus on strategic guidance, commercial insight, and trusted relationships—our global patent search tools and analyst-led services offer an ideal complement. Whether it’s prior art, freedom-to-operate, or competitive intelligence, we help professionals like Steve deliver peace of mind to their clients with search services they can trust. Click for further information on PatWorld search services.
From diagnostics to cannabis-based therapeutics, Sophie Topham’s career in biotech patent law has been anything but predictable. A Senior Associate in the biotechnology team at Marks & Clerk, Sophie’s calm, analytical approach is matched by a refreshing curiosity—qualities that have made her an invaluable asset to clients and colleagues alike. We caught up with her to hear about her work, career path, and the rare case that led to one of her most widely read articles.
From Immunology to Innovation
Sophie’s current docket spans a broad range of biotechnology innovations. While she regularly works with immunology-based diagnostics and oncology-related inventions (including peptide vaccines and tools for identifying oncogenic mutations), her work is as diverse as the biotech field itself.
“Over the last few years, I’ve also worked in the cannabis field, particularly with extracts and synthetic cannabinoids for medical uses,” she explains. “And more recently, I’ve seen an increase in devices—some that resemble ELISAs on a chip, others that use antibodies in more novel ways.”
Despite the increasing overlap between biotech and AI, Sophie admits she still has a soft spot for what she calls “pure biology.” “As a biologist by training, those are the ones I find the most intuitive to work with.”
A Curious Case of Prior Art
In 2024, Sophie penned an article about an unusual and educational experience: having a client’s own clinical trial proposal cited as prior art against their European patent. It was the first time she’d encountered such a scenario—and it proved just as useful for the IP community as it did for her personally.
“Opponents in an EPO opposition cited the client’s trial proposal, which we hadn’t seen before due to a team change on the client’s side,” she recalls. “I had to dig into the case law to understand how such documents are interpreted, especially regarding whether the invention was truly disclosed.”
The case raised interesting questions around whether and how other documents—such as scientific publications—can be used to interpret clinical trial proposals, and how that squares with the EPO’s guidelines.
Understanding the Unusual
Sophie is quick to point out that having clinical trial proposals cited as prior art is still uncommon. “Patent applications in biotech typically don’t require clinical data to be granted. In vitro data is often sufficient for meeting plausibility requirements, so most companies file before trials begin,” she says.
Still, her experience highlighted how easy it is for assumptions to trip up even the most diligent teams. “We’ve seen clients express genuine surprise that their own publications can be cited against them—especially in Europe where there’s no grace period.”
The Route Not Taken
Like many in the IP profession, Sophie’s path wasn’t a straight line. “I originally wanted to be an airline pilot,” she laughs. “But when airlines stopped sponsoring training, the cost became unrealistic. Then I remembered a careers talk we had at university about being a patent attorney. I looked into it, and here I am.”
With a background in biological natural sciences from Cambridge, Sophie’s analytical mindset found a perfect home in IP law. She’s since seen applications through from drafting to grant, oppositions, and even appeals.
“Seeing something I’ve written be granted—and knowing I helped a startup gain recognition through their patent—those are the highlights,” she says.
Life Outside the Office
When she’s not deep in a patent claim, Sophie is rarely still. “I always try to move—walk, cycle, yoga, strength training. Even when working from home, I’ll build exercise into my day.” She’s part of a cycling club and makes time for a proper lunch break most days—usually with some kind of movement.
Evenings are more relaxed: cooking from scratch, reading anything from spy novels to translated Japanese fiction, and planning her next getaway. This summer, she’ll finally fulfil a childhood dream—horse riding along the beaches of Morocco with her twin sister.
If Only There Were More Hours…
When asked which fictional invention she’d most like to patent, Sophie doesn’t hesitate: “Hermione Granger’s Time-Turner. I’d love more hours in the day. If I knew how it worked, I’d make one!”
With her blend of sharp legal insight and grounded, genuine enthusiasm for the science behind the patents, Sophie brings a distinct human touch to biotech IP. Whether she’s tackling tricky prior art or galloping down a Moroccan beach, she’s doing it with purpose and passion.
Marks & Clerk is a leading international firm of intellectual property experts, providing comprehensive patent, trade mark, design, and litigation services. With a global presence and deep sector knowledge, Marks & Clerk supports innovative companies from startups to multinationals in protecting and leveraging their IP assets.
How PatWorld Supports Biotech Innovators
At PatWorld, we help biotech companies, attorneys, and researchers access fast, reliable, and intuitive global patent search tools. Our advanced search and analytics features enable professionals like Sophie to:
When it comes to securing exclusivity in the life sciences sector, few bring the depth of insight and strategic clarity that Francis Tierney offers. A qualified UK and European patent attorney since the 1990s, Francis blends decades of in-house experience with a boutique advisory approach that gives life sciences companies a genuine edge—particularly in pharmaceuticals and small molecule therapeutics. In this article PatWorld discusses with Francis Exclusivity in Pharma, and Navigating the Life Sciences Patent Landscape.
From In-House to Boutique: A Unique Perspective
Francis began his IP career in-house, spending nearly three decades advising on agrochemical and pharmaceutical innovations before moving into private practice. This “poacher turned gamekeeper” transition, as he jokingly puts it, equips him with an intuitive understanding of how clients operate and what they truly need from their IP counsel.
Now at Patent Boutique, he works closely with clients on prosecution, opposition, appeal work, due diligence, and strategic portfolio development. His tailored, hands-on approach is a hallmark of the firm.
The Five Pillars of Patent Strategy in Pharma
Francis sees five key IP considerations for life sciences companies today:
Confidentiality: With increased pressure to publish and attract investors, ensuring non-disclosure before filing is vital.
Timing of Filings: Filing too early can lead to protection ending earlier during peak sales; too late, and companies risk being scooped.
Collaboration with R&D: Patent attorneys need to work closely with research teams to react quickly to emerging data and shape strategy in real time.
Market Awareness: Limited budgets mean companies must prioritise filings in jurisdictions most critical to commercial success.
AI: Keeping abreast of developments in, and the increasing capabilities of, AI.
Getting Patent Drafting Right
Drafting for small molecules brings its own hazards. “If you draft too broadly, not only might your claims be rejected, but you risk creating your own most damaging prior art,” Francis warns. He emphasises the importance of including strong biological data—especially for markets like China—and ensuring that patents will remain enforceable 20+ years down the line, particularly when linked to SPCs.
US vs. Europe: Avoiding a Common Pitfall
One of the most frequent issues Francis sees is US-based companies underestimating global disclosure rules. “There’s a grace period in the US, but not in Europe. Smaller companies often publish during the priority year, which can be problematic for later filings,” he explains.
He also notes how different legal frameworks—such as the EPO’s problem-solution approach versus the US’s obviousness standard—can yield very different outcomes from the same prior art.
Early-Stage Advice: Flexible, Focused, and Fast
Emerging biotech companies often need more tailored support, especially when balancing speed, disclosure, and credibility for investors. Francis helps them navigate this by streamlining prosecution strategies and ensuring they have grantable, meaningful patents to support licensing or M&A activities.
“Established pharma companies have structured IP processes. Start-ups don’t—so we help them build systems and strategies that are credible and cost-effective,” he says.
Patent Portfolios as Deal Enablers
Whether supporting collaborations or preparing for acquisition, Francis views robust IP portfolios as central. “You need to show what you’ve got, but also what you might be developing. Priority filings before a deal are key to demonstrating value,” he advises.
AI in Drug Discovery: A New Frontier, with Caveats
Francis acknowledges AI as a potential game-changer in small molecule R&D, but with caution. “If AI knows everything, where’s the inventive step?” he asks. He sees a possible future where narrower, more focused patent claims become the norm due to more precise AI targeting—but also where validity could well be questioned if algorithms become standardised tools.
A Call for Change: Grace Period Reform
If he could change one thing in the UK or EU IP landscape, Francis would introduce a broader grace period. “It would protect researchers from the kind of accidental disclosures that can destroy patentability. A safety net—not to rely on, but to support honest mistakes.”
The Boutique Advantage
At Patent Boutique, Francis and his colleagues offer flexibility, cost transparency, and a collaborative approach. “We were cloud-based from the start, so our clients benefit from seamless document transfer, real-time communication, and scalable support,” he notes. Clients also gain access to a wider network of trusted attorneys—competency, not size or shine, is what counts.
Outside the Office: Gardening and Grandkids
Beyond the world of SPCs and claim drafting, Francis is a proud grandfather and a keen (and increasingly enthusiastic) gardener. “It’s such a contrast to patent law—where you wait years for a result. In the garden, you plant something and within weeks, there’s colour, texture, and reward,” he says. His latest pride? A set of stunning Alstroemeria —particularly a variety called Indian Summer.
Connect with Francis Tierney 🔗 Francis Tierney on LinkedIn 🔗 Patent Boutique – A specialist firm offering high-level, strategic patent services tailored to life sciences and beyond.
P.S. How PatWorld Supports Patent Attorneys Like Francis PatWorld supports IP professionals with expert-led Patent, Trademark, and Design Search services. Whether you’re advising clients on exclusivity strategies, preparing for prosecution or opposition, or managing complex portfolios, our tailored search solutions deliver the clarity and confidence you need to move forward.
When you think of a patent attorney, you might picture someone firmly rooted in legal texts. But for Lewis Mullholland, the path into IP began thousands of miles from home—embedded in an R&D team at Cisco Systems in Shanghai, tackling early cloud computing challenges.
“It was a fascinating time,” Lewis recalls. “We were pushing the boundaries of what cloud computing could do. That’s where I first encountered IP—not in theory, but as a practical force shaping innovation.” What began as a hurdle—navigating standards full of patented technologies—became an inspiration. “I saw patents not as obstacles but as drivers of invention. You had to think creatively around them, and that mindset stayed with me.”
Today, Lewis is a Chartered and European Patent Attorney at WP Thompson, with a practice spanning mechanical, electrical, and software technologies. He’s also a registered representative before the Unitary Patent Court, making him one of the legal professionals shaping Europe’s evolving IP landscape.
Serendipity and Strategy
Lewis’s route into the profession wasn’t entirely planned. “After returning from China, I had a potential opportunity to train as a patent attorney in Japan. But a conversation with my grandad led to a different route—a chance meeting with a Liverpool-based firm that ultimately launched my career.”
That was over a decade ago, and Lewis has stayed with WP Thompson ever since. “It just felt right,” he says.
His engineering background remains central to how he works. “Engineers solve problems. Patent law, especially at the EPO, is also about solving problems—framing arguments with clarity. I always try to describe an invention as though I’m talking to my nan. If she can understand it, it’s probably a good specification.”
Listening to Clients, Staying on the Front Line
Lewis’s approach to staying current isn’t just about journals or legal updates. “I like to visit clients, talk to their R&D teams, see what’s happening on the ground. That’s often where you get the best insights—seeing what innovations are bubbling up before they hit the headlines.”
This on-the-ground approach also helps tailor strategies for clients of all sizes. “For startups, it’s about making every penny count. Tools like the UKIPO’s IP Audit scheme can be game changers. For multinationals, it’s about managing large portfolios and aligning strategy with business goals.”
On AI, Ownership, and the Wild West
AI is an unavoidable topic in IP law—and Lewis doesn’t shy away from its challenges. “It’s a quagmire,” he admits, pointing to thorny issues like authorship of AI-generated works and ownership rights over training data. “The UK needs a more robust framework. The tech’s evolving fast, and the UK’s principles-based approach to AI regulation has to keep pace.”
Lewis is pragmatic about AI’s place in his own profession. “AI won’t replace patent attorneys—but it can enhance us. We are incorporating AI into our practice, enhancing and streamlining its normal operation. However, there’s a big caveat: it only works well in the hands of someone who knows what they’re doing. You need expertise to ask the right questions and spot the hallucinations.”
High Stakes, Higher Standards
Lewis also has an insider’s view of the UPC, Europe’s new patent enforcement regime. “It’s faster and cheaper—but also higher risk. If a core piece of IP is critical to your business, you need to tread carefully. Many clients are cautiously sticking with the national systems, at least for now.”
His attention to detail has paid off in difficult cases. He recounts one where the client’s own journal publication was blocking a grant. “It came down to a date in the metadata. I challenged the examiner’s assumption and found the proof. That was the turning point. Once we removed that document from consideration, all the related objections fell away.” The lesson? “Never assume the examiner is right—go back to first principles.”
Beyond the Desk
Outside the office, Lewis has a few unexpected pursuits. He’s currently tackling the Couch to 5K programme and recently walked 35 miles of the Wirral Way. “It’s not quite a marathon yet,” he laughs, “but I’m enjoying the journey.” He’s also revisiting classic Stephen King novels. “I read ‘Thinner’ recently—his early stuff has a certain edge to it.”
These interests, Lewis says, help him connect with clients. “It’s about more than just law. Clients are people. If you can relate to them, they’re more likely to trust you with their ideas.”
Looking Ahead
As for the future of IP law? “All eyes are on AI. It’ll reshape how we examine, register, and enforce IP. But we need to stay human in how we use those tools. There will always be a place for patent attorneys—so long as we evolve with the technology.”
PatWorld supports patent attorneys like Lewis Mullholland with professional, reliable IP search services that underpin smart, strategic decision-making. Whether you’re preparing to file, evaluating prior art, or advising clients on freedom to operate, our search solutions are built to support your success.
From ground-breaking materials research to CrossFit competitions, and from optoelectronics to intellectual property (IP) law, Dr Elliott Davies has carved a multifaceted career that bridges science, law, and leadership. In this edition of Meet the IP Professional, we sit down with Elliott Davies, Patent Attorney, to discuss the journey from physics to patents, the evolving IP landscape, and the values that drive his work with clients across the UK and beyond.
A Journey from the Lab to Legal Practice
After earning a Master’s and a PhD in Physics from the University of Bath, Elliott made the leap from academia into the world of IP—a profession he admits was largely unknown to him at the time.
“There wasn’t a clear path from academia to IP law back then,” Elliott explains. “I had a vague idea I liked law, but I also wanted to hold onto the scientific knowledge I’d built up. Becoming a patent attorney offered the best of both worlds.”
A Methodical Mindset—and an Eye for Detail
It was Elliott’s methodical approach during his final year university project—developing soft magnetic materials for submarine stealth applications—that earned him the British Aerospace Prize for outstanding research. That same precision now serves him well in his legal work.
“In patent law, language is critical. Something as small as a misplaced comma can completely alter the scope of protection,” he says. “Learning to write clearly and concisely has been one of the most valuable skills I brought with me.”
From Football Coaching to IP Mentorship
Elliott’s leadership skills aren’t just forged in the office. As a local football coach for young children, he’s learned the value of patience, clarity, and breaking complex ideas into manageable steps—skills he applies when mentoring trainees in the IP profession.
“It’s about getting the basics right before progressing,” he says. “Whether it’s coaching or onboarding a new attorney, small steps and steady support make all the difference.”
Facing Fears and Growing Through Challenges
Though he jokes about a fear of heights, Elliott identifies public speaking and workplace conflict resolution as his true professional challenges. “We’re trained in law, not necessarily in managing people or speaking in front of large audiences,” he reflects. “But you learn. You keep working at it.”
Innovation, Protection—and the Rise of AI
With over 20 years of experience, Elliott has seen the IP landscape evolve significantly. While legal frameworks often lag behind emerging technologies, he points to artificial intelligence as the most pressing frontier.
“People are using AI to generate patent applications or seek legal advice, but the quality can be superficial. It’s shiny on the surface but lacks depth,” he warns. “AI won’t replace attorneys, but it will transform how we work. We need to be ready.”
Supporting Start-ups and SMEs from Day One
Through his work with the Welsh Government and academic institutions, Elliott has championed early IP engagement for SMEs and start-ups.
“Too often, people wait too long to think about IP. Whether it’s a patent, trademark, or design, these protections should be in place before you go public, certainly with patents” he says. “And good contracts are just as important as registrations.”
Design Rights: The Unsung Hero
Design rights, often overlooked in favour of patents or trademarks, are another area where Elliott sees hidden value.
“They can be quick and cost-effective to secure—but get them wrong, and they’re hard to enforce,” he says, citing the well-known Trunki suitcase case. “It’s not about just filing a form. It’s about doing it right.”
A Portfolio Approach to Innovation
Elliott’s work with clients like Alesi Surgical—known for their Ultravision™ medical technology—highlights the importance of ongoing innovation.
“You start with a core idea, but to stay protected, you need a ring-fence of patents that cover improvements and developments over time. That’s how you build a long-term competitive edge.”
Education and Outreach
Passionate about raising awareness of IP, Elliott regularly teaches at Cardiff University’s School of Dentistry, delivering a module on IP Law as part of their qualification. In addition, Elliott gives presentations to early-stage innovators.
“IP was under the radar when I was a student. I want to change that. Helping people understand and protect their ideas is incredibly rewarding.”
Staying Ahead in a Fast-Moving World
With expertise spanning semiconductors, photonics, telecoms, and medical tech, staying up to date is no small feat.
“It’s tough,” Elliott admits. “I lean on newsletters, industry briefings, and—frankly—my clients. They’re at the forefront, and we’re riding that wave with them.”
Mentorship and Team Culture
As Head of Legal Practice and Compliance Director at Wynne-Jones IP, Elliott plays a central role in shaping both client services and internal culture.
“At Wynne-Jones, we’re not a huge firm. Everyone plays a vital role. That gives us agility and a genuine team ethos. We try to make sure everyone understands how the whole business works.”
He’s especially passionate about mentorship. “When I started, I had a brilliant mentor. I try to offer that same calm, patient guidance to those entering the field today—especially with so many working remotely. It can be difficult to learn soft skills from behind a screen alone.”
Life Outside the Office
When he’s not working on patents or compliance, Elliott pushes his limits with Hyrox events—a mix of endurance running and fitness challenges.
“It’s a bit like a hangover. You always say ‘never again’, but then you sign up for the next one,” he laughs.
And his favourite childhood memory? “Family trips to Blackpool or simple days out at the beach or zoo. It wasn’t about the destination—it was about doing it all together.”
Final Thoughts
Elliott Davies embodies the blend of technical precision, legal expertise, and human connection that defines today’s leading IP professionals. Whether mentoring the next generation, protecting cutting-edge tech, or navigating the fast-evolving world of AI, his work continues to shape the future of innovation.
P.S. At PatWorld, we’re proud to support patent attorneys like Elliott and firms like Wynne-Jones through our expert IP search services. Whether you’re looking for prior art, freedom to operate, or patentability searches, our team delivers high-quality, reliable results to help you make confident decisions. Explore our search options here: https://patworld.com/us/order-a-search/.
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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.”
PatWorld works with patent attorneys like Andrew to provide expert patent searching across all technology sectors. Whether you’re exploring an idea or protecting a breakthrough, our patent search reports helps professionals make informed IP decisions.
To find out how PatWorld can support your firm or in-house team, check out the links below or contact us directly on [email protected].
Freedom to Operate Searches: Why Quality, Experience, and Communication Are Essential
For patent attorneys, the importance of a thorough and reliable Freedom to Operate (FTO) search is well understood. As a crucial step in assessing potential patent infringement risks before product launch or market entry, the quality of the FTO search has direct implications for strategic decision-making and risk management.
With many search providers available, it’s important to choose a partner who not only understands the technical and legal dimensions of FTO work but also aligns with your standards of responsiveness and quality.
At PatWorld, our goal is to support attorneys with detailed, jurisdiction-specific analyses that help inform sound legal opinions and provide confidence in complex commercial environments. This post outlines what sets our FTO search services apart—and why attorneys across the globe continue to trust PatWorld with their most critical IP assessments, time and again.
What Defines a High-Quality FTO Search?
An effective FTO search is characterised by its relevance, clarity, and depth. It should:
Identify potentially relevant third-party rights with precision.
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At PatWorld, we combine claim analysis with technical experience to ensure that each search reflects the practical needs of attorneys and their clients. We take the time to understand the commercial context and align our approach accordingly.
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Selecting the right FTO search partner can significantly affect the reliability and usability of the results. At PatWorld, we prioritise:
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World IP Day 2025 – “IP and music: Feel the beat of IP”
Feel the Beat of Innovation: Exploring Music Tech IP with Iain Russell of Russell IP. Music is more than rhythm and melody — it’s deeply entwined with invention. From the earliest mechanical instruments to today’s AI-generated soundscapes, the intersection of music and technology is constantly evolving. And at the core of this innovation is intellectual property (IP), quietly shaping the soundtrack of our future.
This World IP Day, PatWorld sat down with Iain Russell, UK and European patent attorney and founder of Russell IP, to talk about music technology, the role of patents in creative innovation, and what it means to truly “feel the beat” of IP.
Passion Meets Profession
Iain Russell isn’t just a seasoned patent attorney — he’s also a lifelong musician and founder of DefibFest, a music-driven not-for-profit supporting public access to defibrillators. “Music’s always been there,” he says. “It’s my passion, alongside patents.”
This dual perspective gives Iain a unique lens on innovation. He combines legal expertise with hands-on musical insight, making him particularly attuned to the needs of UK-based music-tech innovators.
A Patent Perspective on Music Tech
Filing Trends (Music v All %)
The team at PatWorld recently analysed global patent activity in the music technology space. The findings — covering trends over the past 40 years — revealed intriguing patterns. While overall filing volumes have increased significantly, music-related filings have maintained a steady, if relatively niche, share of global innovation, accounting for around 1% of all filings.
“That might sound small,” Iain says, “but when you consider the sheer number of sectors covered by patents — from pharmaceuticals to telecoms — it’s actually quite remarkable that music tech consistently holds its ground. It’s alive and kicking.”
Though fluctuations exist, the data indicates a resilient and relevant sector. “The technology behind music is evolving rapidly,” Iain adds. “A lot of innovation has continued around musical instruments and hardware, and there is increasing growth in areas like software (for example, DAW plugins), and now generative AI.”
Surprising Innovators — and Why They Matter
One of the more unexpected findings in the PatWorld data was the presence of non-traditional music companies among the top UK-based patent filers in music tech — names not typically associated with instruments or music.
Assignees
According to Iain, this may reflect how music overlaps with audio, voice recognition, UX design, and even AI platforms. “You start with questions like ‘what is music tech?’ and you realise it blurs into other sectors. Some of these filings may be classified under music, even if music isn’t the core focus.”
These cross-sector innovations highlight the value of due diligence. “For start-ups especially, resources are limited. But understanding who’s working in your space — even tangentially — can help shape a smarter IP strategy,” says Iain.
Prosecution Realities: Music vs. Finance
Another striking insight from the data was the comparison between software patent outcomes in music versus finance. In the UK, music-related software patents have consistently higher grant rates than financial software.
Prosecution Outcomes
Why? “Music tech often involves real-world signals — audio captured by microphones, processed, and output in new ways,” Iain explains. “That tends to be seen as more ‘technical’ under UK patent law. Financial software, which some patent offices consider to be about processing more abstract data, faces a steeper challenge.”
The takeaway? Music tech is a relatively fertile ground for software-based patents as well as patents with a hardware focus — a critical insight for inventors unsure about what is patentable.
The Global Soundstage
Patent filing activity in music tech is geographically diverse, with strong representation from China, the US, Japan, Europe, and South Korea. For UK-based companies, this raises important strategic questions.
Territories
“Even if you’re just operating locally, you need to think internationally,” Iain advises. “You might not plan to sell in the US or Japan, but someone else might — and licensing or selling your IP could be a revenue stream. The key is to consider your options early.”
Emerging Themes: AI, MIDI and More
Iain is particularly interested in the evolving world of AI-generated music, but his fascination stretches back to what might be seen as the humble MIDI file — a digital representation of the ‘DNA’ of certain types of music.
“Technology lets us record, edit and produce music in ways that were unimaginable when I first started recording music in my parents’ garage 25 years ago,” he says. “With a basic setup, I can now create a full track — vocals, guitar, drums, effects — from my home. It’s endlessly creative, and patents play a part in enabling that creativity.”
As AI continues to redefine what’s possible in music, the lines between creator, instrument, and software can grow increasingly blurred — a challenge for innovators, and an opportunity for those who understand the IP landscape.
Advice for Music-Tech Innovators
For early-stage music-tech companies, Iain offers a few guiding principles:
– Know your IP toolkit: patents, trade secrets, trademarks, registered designs, and especially copyright can all play important roles in music-related ventures.
– Do your research: novelty searches, competitive analysis, and understanding prior art can significantly increase your chances of success.
– Find the right support: working with advisors who understand both tech and music helps make your case clearer to examiners and collaborators.
Above all, Iain encourages innovators not to underestimate what’s patentable: “Even in something as well-established as guitars, there are thousands of patents — pickups, strings, fretboards, you name it.”
Celebrating Music and IP — Together
World IP Day is a reminder that behind every beat, riff, and chorus, there’s innovation at work. It’s in the algorithms, the amps, the apps, the streaming platforms, and the instruments themselves.
And thanks to professionals like Iain Russell, the inventors driving this innovation have someone to help them protect it.
About Russell IP
Iain Russell is a UK and European patent attorney and founder of Russell IP, a firm dedicated to supporting tech innovators. He’s also an inventor and lifelong musician.
DefibFest is a not-for-profit event raising money for life-saving defibrillators through the power of live music. Watch this space for more on their October 2025 event in London.
Postscript: Supporting the Beat Behind the Scenes
This article would not have been possible without the insights and expertise of Iain Russell, whose passion for music and deep understanding of intellectual property shaped every part of this story. Our thanks also go to Casey Higgon, IP Manager at PatWorld, for producing the data-led research and charts that supported the analysis.
At PatWorld, we work closely with patent attorneys and IP professionals to provide the tools and insights they need to support innovators — including those operating in the ever-evolving music technology space. Our intuitive patent search platform, combined with expert-led support and training, helps uncover competitive landscapes, track filing trends, and strengthen client strategies.
To find out how PatWorld can support your firm or in-house team, check out the links below or contact us directly on [email protected].
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