National law firm Foot Anstey has welcomed Melanie McGuirk as a Partner in its Manchester office

Melanie McGuirk’s appointment is part of the firm’s broader strategy to strengthen its intellectual property (IP) capabilities following the recruitment of Partner Ben Travers in September 2024.

McGuirk is a standout litigator and trusted expert in resolving disputes for clients relating to intellectual property. She has extensive experience in acting for major retailers and clients in the fashion, manufacturing, and creative industries, helping to protect their brands, product designs, and commercial know-how, including where they act as master franchisor. She has specialist expertise in trade libel and reputation management, particularly in relation to the adverse or intrusive media coverage of clients’ business interests or personal lives.

McGuirk is ranked in Band One in Chambers UK and the Hall of Fame in Legal 500 for IP in the North West. She has been described by clients as an “absolute professional with immense depth of knowledge” and “without a doubt the best client partner we work with.”

Foot Anstey‘s IP team works with innovators and household names to protect and commercialize their intellectual property rights, and McGuirk’s addition will strengthen the team’s capabilities and help grow the firm’s presence in Manchester.

Commenting on her arrival, McGuirk said: “Foot Anstey’s ambitious growth aspirations make this an exciting move for me. I’m looking forward to joining the team and building on their success, as well as helping drive growth in Manchester. This is an incredible opportunity to deliver successful results for clients with an exceptionally talented team.”

Ashley Avery, Partner and Head of Commercial, Tech & Data said: “Manchester is a vibrant city, with a rich culture and heritage of businesses built on IP. As a key hub for so many industries, including content creation and media, the city is a key focus for our ambitious IP growth strategy, and we’re thrilled to have Melanie join us there with her wealth of experience.”

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