Christopher Benson – Special Counsel
5 New Street Square
London EC4A 3TW
United Kingdom
DX 41 London
Tel. +44 (0) 20 7300 7000
Fax. +44 (0) 20 7300 7100
e-mail
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Head of Trade Marks Prosecution (UK)
Chris advises on both contentious and non-contentious issues with particular emphasis on trade marks, passing-off, copyright, brand management, licensing, merchandising and sponsorship.
His work includes advising brand owners and well-known clients on brand protection, clearance searches, trade mark prosecution (UK, Community and Internationally), trade mark filing strategies, oppositions, disputes and litigation. He has expertise in actions before the High Court, the UK Trade Marks Registry and the Community Trade Mark Office.
He also advises on all aspects (both contentious and non-contentious) of the creation, development, protection, exploitation and distribution of copyright works, particularly in the publishing, entertainment and media industries. He has considerable experience in the fields of publishing, music and advertising, including advising a number of international newspaper, magazine and book publishers, collecting societies, artists and copyright owners and exploiters of copyright works. Christopher provides a legal helpline for several copyright clients.
Chris studied at Oxford University obtaining a BA (Hons) in Modern Languages. Following that, he attended the College of Law, Guildford. He is fluent in French and German.
Chris has co-authored two publications, Publishing Law (both the 2nd and 3rd Editions) and INTA Practitioners Guide to The Madrid Agreement and Madrid Protocol. He sits on the OHIM sub-committee of INTA’s Trade Mark Office Practices Committee and the Geographical Indications Committee of Marques.
Chris is recognised by Chambers 2009 and described as "incredibly bright and efficient".