Bird & Bird ranked as a leading firm for Technology, Communications and Media by Chambers Global 2016

The strength in depth in of our long established top tier practice in Europe was enhanced by the growth and expansion of our highly rated teams in the Asia Pacific and Middle East. We are ranked as one of the leading six firms globally, providing a seamless service to our international clients operating in the Tech, Comms and Media sectors.

Selected editorial highlights are listed below. Our full rankings can be viewed here.

GLOBAL

Robust TMT practice with an imposing presence in Europe and continuing expansion in the Middle East and Asia. Advises a wide range of clients including technology firms, regulators and public sector bodies on regulatory and commercial matters, and international disputes, as well as media financing, licensing and distribution. Also noted for offering expertise for issues relating to big data and cybersecurity.

Notable practitioners London-based Graeme Maguire leads the team's global technology and communications practice. London-based Phil Sherrell heads the international media group. Other key contacts for IT-related matters include Roger Bickerstaff in London and Alexander Duisberg in Munich.

Client Quotes

"The firm is absolutely excellent in client care. If you need assistance, regardless of where they are in the world, they come back to you with sensible proposals. They are very helpful in responding - I don't have to wait for them."

EUROPE

Formidable reputation for IP litigation and broader commercial disputes with an excellent presence in the IT sector. Handles outsourcing, data protection and transactional matters across many key Western European jurisdictions, with an increasingly impressive reputation in Eastern markets including Poland. Boasts standout telecoms capabilities in London, France and the Netherlands as part of an integrated IT and communications practice. Provides contentious and corporate law advice to global media clients, often co-ordinating cross-border advice between strong teams in Sweden, London and Germany.

Netherlands-based Marjolein Geus is a member of the IT and telecoms steering group, whilst Sweden-based Gabriel Lidman and France partner Marc Schuler are key contacts for the media steering group.

Client Quotes

"The lawyers quickly get an understanding of how my company's technology works and what the legal implications could be. I do not have to spend lots of time explaining the litigation and they help to define the strategy."

"In the different European offices, the lawyers look beyond your basic request, looking at what it is you want to achieve and asking intelligent questions so that when they deliver the product it is what you want." 

"The firm is strong in the internet area and in new technologies. It is well supported by the global network."

ASIA PACIFIC

Highly regarded practitioners offering expertise on transactions and disputes in the technology and telecommunications sectors from offices in Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore and Sydney. Also bolstered by Japan and India desks. Core areas of proficiency include big data, cyber and IT security, mobile payments, robotics and software patentability.

Michelle Chan heads the firm's China and Hong Kong practice, while Hamish Fraser and Chia Ling Koh are respective heads of the Australia and Singapore offices.

Client Quotes

"Their on the ground advice has been absolutely invaluable. They have made the process significantly more straightforward for us, been understanding of our concerns and priorities and guided us through the local law issues in a commercial and rational fashion."

"They understand what we need on a commercial side first and then address the legal side. They put a lot of effort into understanding what our definition of success is and aim for this in the work they do."

MIDDLE EAST

Well known for its global TMT focus, Bird & Bird continues to expand its capabilities in the region. Attracts major regional clients including major international telecoms providers. The team combines its transactional strengths with a formidable regulatory offering. Co-ordinated a major data protection survey undertaken in connection with a proposed customer satisfaction programme and required input from across the Middle East region. 

Client Quotes

"They are very focused and can pool their resources - they had the right person to deal with the narrow topic we were concerned with."

"Every time we have a doubt we consult Bird & Bird."