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Patrick Sands joins K&L Gates in Melbourne as IP partner
12 May 2021
Global law firm K&L Gates has strengthened its intellectual property practice with the addition of Patrick Sands as a partner in Melbourne. Sands joins from Herbert Smith Freehills.
Sands is known for providing commercially focused advice and guidance on major strategic intellectual property disputes. Working at the intersection of science, technology and law, Sands offers clients a combination of skills and experience that, together with a science degree, allows him to communicate effectively with scientists, management boards and legal counsel on highly technical transactions.
His diverse industry experience includes acting for clients in a broad range of sectors, including pharmaceutical, medical devices, digital mobile radio, consumer, optical communications, mining and automotive. Responsible for leading some of the highest profile cases on patent infringement and validity in recent years, Sands also advises on and conducts proceedings relating to copyright, registered designs, breach of confidential information and Australian Consumer Law claims.
“We are thrilled to welcome Patrick to our growing team, where his experience and connections particularly in the pharmaceutical industry will greatly complement our global offering to clients,” said K&L Gates practice area leader and IP partner Jonathan Feder.
Nick Nichola, K&L Gates’ managing partner, Australia, said: “Our investment in the global intellectual property practice has been a strategic focus for the firm. When combined with initiatives such as the recent launch of the K&L Gates IP Agency in China, Patrick’s appointment sees the firm further bolster our intellectual property offering to clients.”
Sands arrival follows the addition of intellectual property partners in Portland, Orange County and Chicago. The firm has welcomed more than 65 partners and of counsel since the beginning of 2020.
