Practical Help
We work with life science start-ups and more established life science companies, both from the UK and abroad. We understand the needs and requirements of companies operating in the life sciences sector, and work with clients to add real value to their business decisions and growth.
Fundraising
Attracting investment in the current economic climate is challenging for life sciences companies in Europe, but when a company is successful in securing funding it is essential that the interests of its founders and existing shareholders are protected properly in the investment documents. We regularly act for companies and investors in relation to funding rounds, as well as subsequent exits events such as acquisitions or IPOs.
Partnering & Commercial Agreements
Entering into a partnering agreement is a crucial milestone in the development of a life sciences company, and the agreements will usually be complex and unique in their structure. Our experience of advising on a large number of licensing and partnering agreements in the sector means that we understand the range of approaches adopted by licensors and licensees, and can advise on how best to protect your interests in such a critical contract.
Clinical trials & regulatory matters
The regulatory pathway for getting a medicine or medical device to market is complex, and the regulatory environment impacts on the activities of life sciences companies in a myriad of ways. We can advise on how best to navigate the regulatory complexities of the sector, and ensure that these considerations are taken into account in all the agreements you enter into – particularly clinical trials and licensing agreements.
Human Resources & employee share schemes
Our lawyers are highly experienced in advising in the life sciences sector, covering a full range of employment and employee benefit issues arising during the employment relationship, as well as advice on terminations, protecting intellectual property and defending any litigation whether in the Employment Tribunal or the High Court. We can also advise on a wide range of equity incentives which may offer tax advantages for employees.
IP Enforcement
Patents provide essential protection for the core molecules or technologies of a life sciences company, and it is these assets that will be licensed out under a partnering agreement. Where a third party infringes the rights protected by those patents, it is critical to ensure you move quickly to enforce your intellectual property rights and bring the infringement to an end. We have one of the leading patent litigation teams in Europe, with extensive experience of enforcing patents, and defending allegations of infringement, in the life sciences sector.
Property
Real Estate liabilities and flexibility can have a significant impact upon an organisation's business. We have a large dedicated real estate team who are experienced in advising life sciences companies at various stages of their development including advising on flexibility for growth as well as tactics and options for consolidation of property interests and disposal of superfluous space through to bespoke headquarters and research and development facilities and specific real estate requirements aligned with such projects