Bird & Bird is an international law firm headquartered in London, established in 1846 by William Frederick Wratislaw Bird and James Moore. With over 1,700 legal professionals across 32 offices globally, the firm is renowned for its deep sector expertise, particularly in technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT).
The London office houses approximately 270 lawyers, 30% of whom possess additional qualifications in science or technical fields, underscoring the firm’s commitment to technical excellence.
Services Offered
Bird & Bird UK offers a comprehensive suite of legal services, including:
- Intellectual Property (IP): Advising on patents, trademarks, copyright, and trade secrets, with a strong focus on contentious and non-contentious matters.
- Corporate and Commercial: Handling mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, and general corporate governance.
- Dispute Resolution: Representing clients in litigation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution across various sectors.
- Employment and HR: Providing counsel on employment law, employee relations, and workplace policies.
- Finance and Financial Regulation: Advising on banking, finance transactions, and regulatory compliance.
- Real Estate: Assisting with property transactions, development projects, and leasing arrangements.
- Tax: Offering strategic tax planning and dispute resolution services.
- Data Protection and Privacy: Guiding clients through data compliance, cybersecurity, and privacy regulations.
The firm adopts a sector-focused approach, serving industries such as automotive, aviation and defence, energy and utilities, financial services, life sciences and healthcare, retail and consumer, media, entertainment and sport, and technology and communications.
Company History
Founded in 1846 in London, Bird & Bird has a rich history of legal excellence. The firm won its first patent case in 1909, marking the beginning of its longstanding association with intellectual property law. Over the years, Bird & Bird has expanded its global footprint, now operating 32 offices across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The firm’s evolution reflects its commitment to innovation and adapting to the changing legal landscape.
Awards and Recognition
Bird & Bird UK has received numerous accolades, highlighting its expertise and innovation:
- British Legal Awards 2023: Won “TMT Team of the Year” for advising Allwyn on securing the UK National Lottery licence.
- Financial Times Innovative Lawyers Europe Awards 2024: Recognised as a winner in the Technology Sector category.
- Managing IP Awards: Named “UK Patent Disputes Firm of the Year” and “UK Trademark Disputes Firm of the Year” in 2024.
- Who’s Who Legal Awards: Awarded “Patent Firm of the Year” and recognised three lawyers as “Thought Leaders” in 2017.
- Women in Business Law Awards 2024: Honoured as “International Firm of the Year” and “Diverse Women Lawyers International Firm of the Year”.
Client and Industry Sentiment
Bird & Bird UK is widely regarded for its client-centric approach and deep industry knowledge. Clients appreciate the firm’s ability to navigate complex legal landscapes, particularly in sectors driven by technology and innovation. The firm’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social mobility initiatives further enhances its reputation within the legal community.
Address:
Bird & Bird LLP 12 New Fetter Lane, London, EC4A 1JP, United Kingdom.
Tel: +44 (0)20 7415 6000
www.twobirds.com