While the strength of the firm lies in copyright, Chapman Tripp continues to grow its patent contentious practice, working with clients such as Telecom, Merck and HP Packaging. Jack Hodder SC and Matt Sumpter are assisting LG Display as the plaintiff in the revocation of a patent involving LCD panel back-light display system technology.
Microsoft trusts the firm on advising on a range of copyright and commercial IP issues, from emerging content and distribution matters to enforcement and patent reform. The team has also helped Television New Zealand on copyright matters and commercial options relating to copyright in TV listings and has engaged in anti-counterfeiting and border protection work. Clients who look to the group for maintenance of their trade mark portfolios include Energizer, HSBC, PricewaterhouseCoopers and Lloyds TSB.
Another client praises the team's expertise: "They were very responsive and interested in the topic," says one in-house counsel client. "Matt Sumpter has a good manner and is easy to deal with. He manages to blend what is obviously an academic approach with practicality." The client adds: "He keeps himself updated on developments across other jurisdictions as well and is very knowledgeable."