Dr Watts, a first-chair patent litigator with deep experience in international disputes including competition matters and Dr Shade, a skilled practitioner and former patent examiner in the European Patent Office, come to WilmerHale from a Magic Circle firm, where Dr Watts was the head of the firm’s UK IP litigation practice. Together they bring more than 30 years of combined practice, with experience in a wide range of technologies, including cell phones, pharmaceutical products, semiconductors and aero engines.

'Impressive duo'

‘Justin and Matthew are an impressive duo who will substantially strengthen our international patent litigation capabilities,’ said Susan Murley, Co-managing Partner of WilmerHale. ‘Their experience with high-stakes IP litigation work and ability to manage complex international patent disputes will benefit our life sciences and tech clients alike.’

Looking forward to joining the team

Dr Watts added: ‘The opportunity to join WilmerHale allows us to be a part of a firm that boasts the most esteemed IP litigation practice in the United States. Matthew and I are looking forward to joining the WilmerHale team and contributing our UK and EU expertise to extend the ways in which clients can rely upon WilmerHale for well-coordinated and comprehensive guidance in global patent litigation matters.’

More than 100 specialists 

WilmerHale’s IP litigation practice includes a litigation team backed by the academic and industry experience of more than 100 lawyers and technology specialists with scientific or technical degrees. WilmerHale’s lawyers have tried major cases in US federal district courts from coast to coast, before the US International Trade Commission and in Germany and the United Kingdom. The firm’s lawyers also regularly represent clients in patent appeals before the US Supreme Court and the Federal Circuit.