Associate – IP Disputes

Job description

We are looking for a sharp, 3-year PQE Associate to join our premier Intellectual Property team in Bristol, focusing on the high-stakes world of IP litigation. Our practice is a hub for innovation, where you will represent a diverse roster of clients—from ambitious technology scale-ups to global household names—navigating complex disputes in the High Court and IPEC. This role is specifically designed for a junior-to-mid-level litigator who is ready to move beyond the sidelines and take on genuine responsibility. You will work within a dynamic, high-performing environment that prioritizes your growth as a trusted advisor, offering direct client exposure and the chance to tackle intricate cases across the life sciences, software, and financial services sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the management of contentious IP matters, including patent disputes, trade mark infringement claims, trade mark oppositions and copyright infringement claims.

• Draft and assist with pleadings, evidence, correspondence, disclosure and litigation process management in High Court and IPEC matters.

• Work closely with senior team members on patent litigation strategy, including liaising with counsel and technical experts and reviewing scientific or engineering evidence.

• Handle pre-action correspondence, assist with settlement discussions and explore alternative dispute resolution options.

• Draft commercial IP agreements, negotiate licensing deals, support on the intellectual property aspects of corporate transactions.

• Provide clear, commercially-focused advice to clients on enforcement, protection strategies, risk mitigation and dispute resolution.

• Develop relationships with clients, demonstrating professionalism, responsiveness, and the ability to handle day-to-day queries.

• Participate in business development, including article writing, preparing client updates, delivering training and engaging with Bristol’s innovation ecosystem.

• Work collaboratively with the wider IP, commercial, corporate and technology teams to support multi-disciplinary matters.

• Continue to build your technical IP knowledge, including developments in patent law, life sciences/engineering technologies and case law.

• Handle confidential client and technical information in accordance with strict security protocols.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Around 3 years PQE in contentious intellectual property, ideally with a degree in a relevant science or engineering subject, experience of patent litigation (in-depth patent experience not essential if you have the aptitude and enthusiasm to develop).

• A genuine interest in technology, science or engineering, and the ability to confidently engage with technical subject matter.

• Experience supporting High Court or IPEC litigation.

• Strong legal and technical research, drafting and analytical skills, with the maturity to take ownership of tasks under appropriate supervision.

• Demonstrated ability to build client relationships, communicate clearly and adapt to different levels of technical understanding.

• A proactive and organised approach, with good matter management skills and the ability to meet deadlines.

• A team player who contributes positively, shares knowledge and supports colleagues.

• Qualified solicitor in England and Wales.

Professional Growth and Flexibility

At DAC Beachcroft, we understand that high-level legal work requires a modern approach to balance, which is why we offer our “Flex Forward” scheme to support your specific working needs. You will join a team that values technical curiosity and encourages you to immerse yourself in Bristol’s thriving innovation ecosystem. We take pride in our in-house recruitment process, ensuring that every hire is a strategic fit for our culture of excellence and collaboration. If you have a background in science or engineering and a drive to become a leading voice in IP law, we provide the mentorship and the platform to help you build a lasting, high-impact career.