Intellectual Property

Chapman Tripp acts for global brands on patents and trade mark litigation, with notable expertise in infringement and internet piracy. It also advises corporate clients on transactional matters including the sale of IP rights, IP sharing and joint ownership arrangements, and trade mark licensing negotiations. The practice has a strong track record in patent infringement and trade mark opposition proceedings.

"Chapman Tripp is responsive and creative and offers vigorous representation."

"I frequently turn to Chapman Tripp when faced with more complex matters, and I trust them with these matters."

Chapman Tripp acted for Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, manufacturer of respiratory products, in opposing the grant of a number of New Zealand patent applications filed by a US-based competitor.

Matt Sumpter is a highly respected practitioner with particularly noteworthy litigation experience who advises clients on both contentious and non-contentious IP matters. He is regularly instructed on a range of trade mark, copyright and patent matters, including infringement, opposition, internet piracy and site-blocking, and also advises extensively on regulatory and commercialisation issues.

Kelly McFadzien maintains an active practice in non-contentious IP matters, acting for clients in such sectors as education, manufacturing, and food and beverages. She advises on the IP aspects of various forms of transaction, including brand sharing, licensing and joint ownership arrangements. "Kelly understands the real depth of our business and how we work, which is a huge asset for us. She understands at a commercial level what we need and how to get the best outcome in negotiation."

Tom Cleary is a senior associate at the firm and represents clients in patent infringement proceedings and trade mark protection mandates. His clients operate in sectors such as healthcare, media and design. "Tom excels at practical litigation advice. He is able to assess a case or issue crisply and accurately."