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## Overview US law firm Perkins Coie is entering the London patent market through the hire of Caitlin Heard as partner, formerly co-head of the international IP practice at CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang. The move is part of a broader trend of US firms expanding into the London and UPC patent ecosystem. ## Key Facts - **Incoming partner**: Caitlin Heard, solicitor advocate and UPC representative (qualified via Ireland). - **Prior firm**: CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang (co-head, international IP practice). - **Timing**: Move timing not yet finalized as of reporting date. - **Context**: Follows other US firm entries into the London patent market post-CMS hires. ## Caitlin Heard – Profile - Dual-qualified as solicitor advocate and UPC representative. - UPC representative qualification via Ireland, enabling her to appear before the Unified Patent Court. - Focus on international IP, positioning Perkins Coie for cross-border UPC and UK patent matters. ## Strategic Significance ### For the Legal Market - US firms are systematically building London patent benches to capture UPC-adjacent work and UK IPEC/High Court mandates. - Hiring UPC-qualified practitioners is a priority given the court's growing docket and pan-European enforcement power. - CMS has become an involuntary talent pipeline for US firms entering the market. ### For Clients - More US-headquartered options for European patent enforcement without needing to retain entirely separate European counsel. - Competition among US firms for London patent talent may improve service quality and pricing. ## Broader Trend - Multiple US firms have entered or expanded London patent capabilities in 2024–2026. - UPC's establishment in 2023 and growing caseload is the structural driver. ## Watch Points - When Heard officially joins Perkins Coie and team build-out thereafter. - Whether Perkins Coie pursues further UK/European patent lateral hires. - Competitive response from Magic Circle and other US firms already present in London IP.