Joel Smith has joined Herbert Smith Freehills in the firm’s Sydney office; the dispute resolution partner and IP specialist has been seconded from London. His practice combines heavyweight contentious and noncontentious IP issues, including advice on protecting rights, licensing and disputes. The move is designed to promote mobility in the partnership and assist integration and globalization of the practice, which has already seen a number of disputes partners move to different regions.

“These appointments reflect the strength of our global IP practice, and will grow our capacity to advise our clients on strategic global IP disputes and transactions,” says Sue Gilchrist, who heads the Herbert Smith Freehills IP practice in Australia.