UK and European patent attorneys Chris Mason and Parminder Lally have joined the Appleyard Lees partnership, while partner Bill Lister has retired.
Mason and Lally (pictured) are the latest additions to a partnership that has grown from 15 to 20 partners in the last five years. The Leeds-headquartered firm’s roster of attorneys and trainee attorneys also grew by 60% during this time.
Mason is experienced in developing and managing global patent portfolios, with specialisms in the chemical and life science sectors.
Lally specialises in drafting and prosecuting patent applications for computer-implemented inventions, including those involving developments in artificial intelligence.
They have followed different paths to partnership. Mason began his career at Appleyard Lees as a trainee in the Leeds office in September 2011 and has since risen through the ranks.
Lally also joined the patent profession in September 2011 and has worked in private practice and in-house. She joined the Cambridge office of Appleyard Lees in February 2019.
Their different paths to partnership also reflect Appleyard Lees’s commitment to promoting diversity and equality within the firm.
Commenting on their promotions, David Clark, managing partner at Appleyard Lees, said: “The commitment of Chris and Parminder to their work for Appleyard Lees is not only first-class, but inspiring. Although they have taken different paths to get where they are today, they have both made valuable contributions to our firm through their excellent client service and high-quality work.
“I am sure they will both be great assets to the partnership, in the immediate term and in years to come. We are delighted to welcome them both into the partnership.”
Meanwhile, Bill Lister, a solicitor, trade mark attorney and mediator, retired from the partnership on 31 March. He will continue to work as a consultant for the firm.
Lister joined the Appleyard Lees partnership in 2018, a pivotal time in the development of the firm’s litigation team. He, a well-respected specialist intellectual property litigator, brought with him a wealth of IP litigation experience to the firm.
Lister helped shape the Appleyard Lees litigation offering, strengthening its capabilities and assisting with the growth of the team
Commenting on Lister’s retirement, Clark said: “It is with sadness that we announce Bill’s retirement from Appleyard Lees.
“Bill achieved great success for his clients in many complex IP litigation cases. His wealth of knowledge and expertise has positively impacted our growing litigation team, aiding in the support we continue to be able to offer clients
“It has been a privilege to work with Bill and I am happy he will continue as a consultant.”
Robert Cumming, head of litigation and trade marks, will continue to lead the firm’s litigation offering.
Cumming is supported by Chris Hoole, partner, solicitor and trade mark attorney, and a growing team of specialist IP solicitors and paralegals.
Image source: Appleyard Lees
