Ian Kirby

Ian specialises in multi-jurisdictional patent litigation and intellectual property disputes. With over 30 years’ experience before the English Patents Court, the IPEC, the appeal courts and, more recently, the UPC, he advises on matters spanning the UK, Europe and the US. Clients value his tenacity, clear thinking and strategic approach, particularly on complex commercial issues, and he is recognised for his ability to bring the best out of the teams he leads.

In addition to his litigation work, Ian’s practice includes significant experience in alternative dispute resolution, and he is a member of the WIPO List of Mediators. Whether preparing witnesses for trial or helping parties work towards a negotiated outcome, he focuses on both the legal and commercial issues and on understanding the dynamics between the parties. This balanced approach enables clients to move confidently toward successful outcomes, whether at trial or through settlement.

Known for his pragmatic, clear and direct approach to handling disputes, Ian is cited in The Legal 500 2025 as being “an excellent leader … [his] arsenal of skills encompass monoclonal antibodies and voice recognition technologies”. In the words of The Legal 500 2024, “If you care about strategy and winning, Ian Kirby is the solicitor you want to anchor your litigation.” It also commends his ability to adapt US strategies effectively for UK courts. He is acknowledged by IAM Patent 1000 as “one of the best patent litigators in the country” and “an ace when it comes to multi-jurisdictional patent litigation in any sector”. Chambers UK 2024 notes Ian’s “excellent judgement and client-handling skills”.

As Carpmaels & Ransford’s first litigation partner, Ian has spent the last 30 years litigating high‑profile patent cases across technologies ranging from monoclonal antibodies to voice recognition and audio systems, as well as globally significant copyright cases and a wide range of trade mark and passing off disputes.

IAM Patent 1000 notes that “Ian Kirby has been racking up the wins for over 25 years and stands out for his inspiring team management and big-picture thinking both in and out of the courtroom”,  while WTR 1000 comments that “Dispute-resolution maven Ian Kirby has put in many resonant courtroom performances over his 30-year career and has done much to shape the legal landscape.”