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Advertising & Marketing Disputes

Disputes in this sector usually arise in one of three scenarios.

First are the claims by third parties, such as photographers or film studios, alleging that advertising plagiarises their work. We put up a united front of the brand, the agency and its insurers so that speculative claims are quashed and valid claims are settled as quickly, quietly and cost effectively.

Second are the disputes between brands, often involving comparative advertising or other intellectual property issues. We’ve acted on some of the most important advertising cases of the last 20 years, including cases that have gone to the Court of Appeal and the European Court of Justice.

Third, there are the disputes between brands and agencies that arise at the end of a relationship. These are not infrequent, but usually settled quietly, after the issues around notice, payment and IP ownership have been resolved. Sometimes the parties even part as friends!

Other disputes

Other disputes arising can be more varied. For example, we advise clients on highly sensitive internal matters, sometimes conducting urgent investigations on short notice. Where an agency has been defrauded we act quickly to protect or recover assets. We also assist with issues at board level and help resolve disputes between shareholders. We have considerable experience of insolvency issues and help directors of distressed agencies and other marketing businesses to avoid personal risk from over-trading.

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