Often acting for high-profile clients from the digital media, film and television, music, and publishing industries, Healys in Brighton is lauded for its expertise in defamation and reputation matters, privacy and breach of confidence cases, and GDPR claims. The ‘excellent’ Nicholas Taylor heads the practice, and specialises in disputes involving public figures, while Andrew Sparrow is a key name for internet related matters. Samantha Oakley is noted for her expertise in negotiating licences concerning film and TV studios, and her vast knowledge of matters relating to the EU Copyright Directive.

Noted for providing ‘reliable, trustworthy' advice, Howes Percival LLP is lauded for its vast experience in the publishing industry. The group operates across a wide variety of creative industries such as TV, film, and videogames, and is led by James Howarth, who is particularly adept at representing claimants in defamation and privacy cases. Cathleen Blackburn and Steven Maier are well versed in IP disputes, while Chris White represents rights holders and service providers for high-profile sporting events. Frequently receiving instructions from music, publishing, and theatre clients, Jenna Bruce leads the firm’s non-contentious offering, regularly advising on the drafting of rights agreements.

Stevens & Bolton LLP handles a varied workload consisting of rights acquisition, series production, and development contracts for streaming platforms, as well as music licensing work. The team is led by IP expert Tom Lingard, who is noted for his broad expertise in brand protection and reputation management. Tom Collins is a key team member for IP-related instructions, specialising in infringement disputes as well as licensing issues, and protection strategies.