Contact: mread@vennershipley.co.uk

Matthew has over twenty five years experience in IP and is the senior partner in the electronics and software group, which he started in 1986. He is expert in managing groups of IP professionals to implement protection strategies worldwide and enjoys the challenge of creating cost effective protection for clients, whether they are multinational corporations or individual inventors.

After graduating in Physics from the University of Bristol, Matthew worked for a major UK electronics manufacturer before qualifying as a Chartered and European patent attorney.

He specialises in complex electronic and electrical subject matter and has extensive experience of preparing, filing and prosecuting patent applications in telecommunications, internet software and semiconductor device fabrication technology. He also acts for clients outside of the electronics and software area in a wide range of technologies.

Matthew is experienced in conducting oppositions and appeals before the European Patent Office, as well as litigation and licensing. He is also a UK registered trade mark attorney and an OHIM representative.

He has taken an interest in the developing European patent law and practice for the patentability of computer software and business methods and has successfully represented clients at EPO and UKIPO hearings when this issue has been raised as a bar to patentability. He has also provided strategic advice to clients for patenting their computer implemented systems in Europe.

He has contributed to the following textbooks on patent law: “Successful Patents & Patenting for Engineers & Scientists” IEEE Press, and “Drafting Patents for Litigation & Licensing” BNA Books 2008.

Matthew has lectured on European patent law and practice at the George Mason School of Law, Washington, USA.

Professional Memberships

Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys
Member of the European Patent Institute
Member of the Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys
Associate member of AIPLA

Education

Matthew graduated from the University of Bristol with an honours degree in Physics.

Recommendations

Matthew has been specifically singled out for recommendation in this years Legal 500 Directory who describe him as “excellent” in relation to his work with his clients.