Who Is Bristows LLP and What Do They Do?
Bristows LLP is a distinguished and independent European law firm headquartered in London, with a rich heritage dating back to 1837. Specialising in the technology, life sciences, and media sectors, the firm is recognised for its deep technical understanding, cross-border capabilities, and multidisciplinary legal expertise.

As a leading legal partner for businesses operating in IP-intensive and highly regulated industries, Bristows provides strategic guidance across intellectual property, commercial law, litigation, data protection, and regulatory compliance.
The firm’s strength lies in its unique blend of legal excellence, scientific knowledge, and industry insight, which allows it to navigate complex legal landscapes on behalf of its clients.
Unlike many large firms, Bristows maintains its independence, choosing to build a strong global presence by working collaboratively with top-tier law firms around the world instead of joining a global network. This approach gives them flexibility and freedom to act in clients’ best interests, regardless of jurisdiction.
Who Leads Bristows LLP and How Is the Firm Structured?
Bristows LLP operates as a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), incorporated on 19 October 2010 under Company Number OC358808. The firm is active and fully compliant with UK regulatory requirements.
Its leadership comprises an impressive roster of sector-specialist partners with deep expertise in their respective fields. Here’s an overview of key figures across various practice areas:
| Name | Role |
| Dominic Adair | Partner – Patent Litigation |
| Tim Allen | Partner – Real Estate |
| Gregory Bacon | Partner – Patent Litigation |
| Jeremy Blum | Partner – Trade Marks, Designs & Copyright |
| James Boon | Partner – Patent Litigation |
| Xisca Borrás | Partner – Life Sciences Regulatory |
| Andrew Bowler | Partner – Patent Litigation |
| Mark Brown | Partner – Commercial Disputes |
| Robert Burrows | Partner – Patent Litigation |
| Adrian Chew | Partner – Patent Litigation |
| Simon Clark | Partner – Trade Marks, Designs & Copyright |
| Julia Cockroft | Partner – Tax |
These individuals form the backbone of Bristows’ legal capabilities, collectively offering decades of experience in IP law, commercial litigation, tax, regulatory matters, and real estate.
Many of them hold degrees in science or engineering, allowing them to provide advice that’s both legally sound and technically precise.
The firm’s governance culture prioritises collaboration over competition. By avoiding billable hour targets, Bristows fosters an environment where quality of service and teamwork take precedence over individual billing metrics, ensuring consistent, client-first outcomes.
How Much Capital Does Bristows LLP Operate with and What Is Its Turnover?
While Bristows LLP does not publicly disclose specific revenue or capital data due to its private partnership structure, industry analysis and legal directories have placed the firm among the top intellectual property and life sciences law firms in the UK.
Based on recent filings:
| Financial Data Point | Detail |
| Last Accounts Made Up To | 30 April 2024 |
| Next Accounts Due By | 31 January 2026 |
| Confirmation Statement Date | 19 October 2025 |
| Next Confirmation Due By | 2 November 2026 |
| Previous Company Name | Bristows (Solicitors) LLP |
The firm’s long-standing history, combined with a selective and stable client base in IP-rich sectors, suggests robust financial health and consistent growth.
Their choice to remain independent and focused has likely contributed to a leaner, more agile financial model when compared to bulkier international firms.
What Services and Features Does Bristows LLP Offer?
Bristows LLP’s service offering is both comprehensive and niche-focused, aligning perfectly with the evolving needs of innovation-led companies.
Its client roster includes multinational corporations, growth-stage businesses, and institutions in technology, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and media.
Key Practice Areas:
| Service Area | Description |
| Intellectual Property | Leading firm in patent and trade mark litigation, copyright, and design law |
| Patent Litigation | Extensive experience in high-stakes patent disputes across Europe |
| Life Sciences | Regulatory, IP, and commercial advice for pharmaceutical and biotech firms |
| Technology & Data | Expertise in IT contracts, data protection (including GDPR), and AI law |
| Dispute Resolution | Handles commercial litigation, reputation management, and arbitration |
| Corporate & Commercial | Advises on M&A, joint ventures, restructuring, and complex transactions |
| Tax & Real Estate | Provides counsel on cross-border tax and property matters |
Bristows is particularly known for its work in emerging areas like AI regulation, cybersecurity, and digital health, making it a legal partner of choice for businesses operating on the frontier of technological innovation.
Their client-centric approach is further supported by:
- No billable hour targets, which allows lawyers to focus on adding genuine value.
- Collaborative international network, ensuring seamless service for cross-border legal needs.
- Scientifically trained lawyers, enabling more nuanced legal advice in technical fields.
How Can You Contact Bristows LLP?
Bristows LLP operates offices in London, Brussels, and Dublin, serving a wide client base across Europe and globally.
Main Contact Details:
| Office Location | Address | Phone |
| London (HQ) | 100 Victoria Embankment, London, EC4Y 0DH | +44 (0)20 7400 8000 |
| Brussels | Avenue des Arts 56, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium | +32 2 808 7500 |
| Dublin | 18-20 Merrion St Upper, Dublin 2, D02 XH98, Ireland | +353 1 270 7755 |
| Website | www.bristows.com | — |
| DX (Legal Exchange) | DX 269 | — |
For legal enquiries, partnership opportunities, or press communications, users are encouraged to use the contact form on the firm’s website or call the respective office directly.
Why Choose Bristows LLP?
For over 185 years, Bristows LLP has stood at the intersection of law, science, and innovation. Its unique culture, rooted in independence, quality, and intellectual curiosity, makes it one of the UK’s premier legal advisors for clients in knowledge-driven industries.
Whether you’re a biotech startup seeking patent protection, a global tech firm navigating data regulations, or an investor in IP-heavy sectors, Bristows offers a combination of legal depth, technical understanding, and strategic foresight that few firms can match.
Bristows LLP is not just a law firm, it is a long-term legal partner for the innovators shaping the future.




