Neil Thomson

Partner

Cambridge

Contact

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Memberships

AMIMechE
CIPA
EPI

Qualifications

Registered UPC Representative
European Patent Attorney
Chartered Patent Attorney
MA (Cantab) Engineering, University of Cambridge
MEng Engineering, University of Cambridge

I specialise in providing services to corporate clients and have a diverse range of experience across multiple industries. I enjoy the challenges and opportunities that come with working in different sectors and take pride in delivering high-quality results for my clients.

My technical background is in mechanical and civil engineering. My client portfolio covers a diverse range of industries, including construction, consumer goods and healthcare. I am particularly proud to have built a longstanding relationship with a major food and beverage client over the past 21 years.

Throughout my career, I have been extensively involved in drafting and prosecuting patents, as well as providing advisory services. I am also responsible within the firm for ensuring compliance and providing education on relevant matters. I am leading our team as we navigate the impact of the Unified Patent Court (UPC) on the European patent landscape. While my work increasingly involves advising clients at a strategic level, I still enjoy the more creative aspects of the job, such as drafting patent applications. Turning a client’s invention into concise and accurate language on paper is a crucial and fulfilling part of the attorney’s role.

In addition to my other responsibilities, I often handle opposition and due diligence work, analysing other companies’ patent portfolios for clients who are planning to launch new products. This can be a challenging but satisfying task, and I enjoy being able to see the development of a product from start to finish. When representing a client, my foremost concern is always to protect their best interests. I strive to understand their unique needs and anticipate potential issues before they arise.

At Boult, we value collaboration and a genuine client-attorney relationship. We prioritise our clients’ needs and take satisfaction in providing business solutions to their problems. Our approach is rooted in a collegiate ethos, and we take pride in being more than just a service provider. We strive to build lasting partnerships with our clients and truly help them find solutions to their challenges.

Recent experience

Assisting clients with developing strategies for use of the new Unified Patent Court (UPC).

Drafting patent applications for a client in the sustainable technologies field to protect significant new process innovations.

Freedom to operate (FTO) clearance advice for a publicly-listed client wishing to launch a new product in a crowded field.

Regularly representing clients on opposition matters before the EPO and Boards of Appeal.

Filing and advising clients on registered design protection in a wide range of fields, including gaming, GUI, FMCG and lighting technologies.

Testimonials and recognitions

Named as a key attorney, Legal 500, 2023
Recognised as a thought leader or a patent expert, Who’s Who Legal, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018

“When representing a client, my foremost concern is always to protect their best interests. I strive to understand their unique needs and anticipate potential issues before they arise.”