Patrick is a special counsel in the Intellectual Property (IP) group with a focus on IP litigation, especially life sciences and technology patent cases. Patrick is one of Australia’s leading intellectual property lawyers, providing commercially focused advice and guidance on major strategic IP disputes and regulatory matters to sophisticated companies. He is passionate about the intersect of science, technology, and the law and achieving commercial solutions to complex problems.
Patrick is a very experienced IP litigator, responsible for running some of the highest profiled cases on patent infringement and validity in Australia in recent years. In addition to patents, he advises on and conducts proceedings relating to copyright, registered designs, breach of confidential information, and Australian Consumer Law claims. He has extensive experience managing Australian IP cases that are part of multi-jurisdictional disputes where global strategies are developed and pursued.
Patrick offers a distinct combination of experience and skills. He obtained a degree in physics and industry experience in the UK before becoming a lawyer and over the last 20 years in Australia he has built a strong practice in IP litigation, strategic advice, and patents, acting as a lead partner on patent litigation matters. Patrick has acted for clients in a broad range of sectors, including pharmaceutical, medical devices, digital mobile radio, consumer, optical communications, mining, and automotive. With his background he is able to communicate effectively with scientists, management, boards, and legal counsel in technical industries. He is highly commercial and pragmatic, always looking at litigation as a means to achieve an advantageous business outcome for the client.
Patrick has conducted proceedings in the Federal Court, Full Federal Court, and High Court of Australia. He has particular experience in obtaining and opposing interlocutory injunctions and running appeals.
He is known for being pragmatic, calm, commercial, and concise and is recognised in the market for his ability to think strategically.