Boriana Guimberteau joins the firm as a partner

Law firm Stephenson Harwood LLP has launched an intellectual property (IP) practice in its Paris office with the arrival of partner Boriana Guimberteau.

Guimberteau, who joins the firm with associate Magali Courroye, advises clients in various industries on all aspects of intellectual property matters, including trademarks, copyright, designs, patents, domain names, unfair competition and trade secrets in both contentious and noncontentious matters. She has a particular expertise in fashion (advising on contentious and non-contentious trademarks and copyright matters), retail and luxury products. Guimberteau arrives from FTPA, where she was a partner and co-head of the IP team. 

"Our ambition is to create a full-service European hub for the firm in Paris," said Nicolas Demigneux, Stephenson Harwood's office managing partner in Paris. "The arrival of Boriana, and the launch of a dedicated IP practice, is another important milestone in achieving that ambition."

Guimberteau is the fifth partner to join the Paris office so far this year, following the arrival of finance partner Laurence Hanley, competition partner Jean-Julien Lemonnier, employment partner Soazig Préteseille and private equity partner Clotilde Billat.

"Following Brexit it was important for us to be able to continue to advise clients before the European Union Intellectual Property Office and Boriana's arrival means we can continue to do that," said Alexandra Pygall, partner and head of the firm's IP practice. "She brings a wealth of experience and expertise which not only complements our European IP practice, but enhances it too."  

Stephenson Harwood's intellectual property team has considerable experience advising clients on a complete range of domestic and international IP issues. From determining the extent of intellectual property rights and exploiting their value, to protecting their integrity. The team has particular strengths in the life science sector and in luxury and consumer brands.