Gain firsthand insight into how judges across Europe are approaching pharmaceutical and biotech patent litigation in both national and UPC forums. This session offers a rare opportunity to hear from the bench on key trends, procedural developments, and how judicial thinking is evolving post-UPC launch. Attendees will come away with a deeper appreciation for the considerations shaping decisions in complex cross-border disputes.
Edger Brinkman
Colin Birss
Sir Colin Birss was sworn in as Chancellor of the High Court in November 2025. He was called to the English Bar in 1990 and practiced in intellectual property law, taking silk in 2008. In 2010 Colin Birss went on the bench, first as judge of the Patents County Court (now IPEC) and then, in 2013, to the High Court. In 2019 became Judge in Charge of the Patents Court. Colin was sworn in as a Lord Justice of the Court of Appeal in 2021 and took up a senior leadership role as the Deputy Head of Civil Justice until November 2025.
Paul Inman
With a first degree in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and more than 30 years' experience of litigating intellectual property disputes, Paul Inman draws on his deep sector insight to advise a wide variety of clients across many jurisdictions. While experienced across a range of industries, Paul specialises in the life sciences sector and has worked with clients ranging from multi-national businesses, pharma and medical device companies, to research bodies, chemical companies and small start-ups.
His work has included acting on high-profile pharmaceutical and biotech patent infringement and revocation actions in the UK Patents Court, and more recently on UPC actions. In addition, Paul's interest and expertise in the life sciences sector has seen him advise on regulatory work concerning European pharmaceutical bodies. He is also experienced in acting for a wide range of patent and design proprietors.
Whether "success" is measured by getting the right court order at the end of the dispute or evaluating and reaching the right commercial settlement between the parties beforehand, a thorough and balanced assessment on each case is critical. The ultimate aim for Paul is to provide his clients with well-rounded advice and guidance to ensure the best possible outcome.
Paul's background in molecular biology and biochemistry means he can take on highly complex pharmaceutical or biotechnological inventions, as easily as less technical (but equally important) mechanical patents and designs.
Successfully guiding clients through the maze of litigation is where Paul's strength lies, having now been involved over 30 years in the field of litigation with his cases leading to more than 60 reported judgments, ranging from the tribunals of the UK Patent Office (UKIPO) up to the UK Supreme Court (formerly the House of Lords), European Patent Office (EPO) and European Court of Justice (CJ EU).
As well as litigating in the English courts, Paul has co-ordinated and advised on IP and regulatory litigation matters across the globe, as far afield as the US, South Africa, Malaysia, the Philippines, Australia and New Zealand, and closer to home in the UPC, Scotland, Ireland, France, Germany, Holland, Denmark, Sweden. Norway, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece.
Paul is ranked as a leading individual in Chambers UK for both Patent Litigation and Life Sciences. He is also recognised in the 'IAM Patent 1000' global rankings and in the 'Best Lawyers®' UK 2025 guide.
Andras Kupecz
