Herbert Smith Freehills

Australia

Reviews

Practice area

IP STARS Reviews

Overview

Herbert Smith Freehills is an international law firm with a strong IP practice in Australia. IP Star Sue Gilchrist leads its practice, which is best known for disputes work. The firm also has experienced lawyers for non-contentious IP matters, especially IP transactions.

Testimonial

2023

"We appreciate the integration with their broader network which provides an assurance of quality and responsiveness."

2019 client testimonials

A client noted: “They are incredibly responsive, sensitive to the client's particular needs and issues, and are great collaborators.” 

Another client said: “The team is extremely knowledgeable and [provides] excellent advice on strategy. Can't be faulted. First class.”  The client also noted that the firm’s IP practitioners “always respond quickly and with great, commercial advice”.

A client who had an “outstanding experience” admires the IP team’s “cost-effective service, attention to detail, outstanding analysis and clear command of the subject-matter”.

An IP dispute client explained: “We chose HSF because they have a proven track record in litigation and are well tied into the Australian legal system and surrounding jurisdictions. The IP team thinks very far ahead.  We know that every decision is well thought out and justified. They have not given us a reason to look elsewhere.”

Patent

Patent case studies show the firm dealt with litigation in industries such as pharmaceutical and telecommunications. Clients include Ariosa Diagnostics, Motorola Solutions and Gilead Sciences. The key partners for patent instructions are Sue Gilchrist, Shaun McVicar, Rebekah Gay and Patrick Sands; these partners can also deal with soft IP work. Gilchrist is a top all-round IP lawyer.

IP transactions

Kristin Stammer is a notable lawyer for this type of work, but she can also advise on brand-related matters.