We are thrilled to announce the promotion of Andrew Scott to Partner and James Rowland to Associate.
Andrew Scott
Andrew’s promotion reflects James & Wells’ commitment to servicing innovative companies in the South Island, and particularly the Canterbury region. Canterbury is now rebounding strongly from the earthquakes of 10 years ago, and our Christchurch office continues to support local firms whilst also working internationally.
“The quality of Andrew’s work is consistently exceptional which makes him a perfect fit for the Partnership,” says Managing Partner, Tim Walden. “He sets a very high bar, is incredibly resourceful and is our go-to attorney for anything practice related.”
Andrew joined James & Wells’ patent team in 2014 after practicing in Australia for eight years. With a background in physics, biochemistry and chemistry, including a PhD in synthetic medicinal chemistry and post-doctoral studies in materials science, Andrew heads James & Wells’ Chemistry Team. He also boasts a Masters of Intellectual Property Law.
Andrew was involved in three of the first eight opposition decisions under the post-Raising the Bar reforms in Australia and has an intimate knowledge of the new support and disclosure requirements under the Australian Patents Act 1990 and New Zealand Patents Act 2013, having spoken extensively on the topics.
Andrew has been instrumental in defending United States Gypsum’s patent portfolio in Australia in front of the Patent Office and Federal Court of Australia and defending Bayer NZ’s/Elanco’s patent portfolio in Australia and New Zealand before both Patent Offices and the Federal Court of Australia.
Andrew has been a council member of the New Zealand Institute of Patent Attorneys (NZIPA) since 2017.
James Rowland
James’ promotion adds further depth to James & Wells’ litigation team, which is the largest dedicated IP litigation team in New Zealand.
James joined the firm in 2018 after three years as a Judges’ Clerk at the Hamilton District Court. His practice, while extending across a range of intellectual property rights, is centred predominantly on the obtaining and enforcement of patent rights. James is experienced across the varied stages of IPONZ and Court proceedings. He has also been involved in numerous successful dispute resolutions outside of court.
“James’ talent and enthusiasm is a great asset to our team,” says Tim. “He has a keen eye for research and an uncanny ability to communicate in terms that are commercially relevant for our clients.”
James has been a key contributor to New Zealand’s leading text on intellectual property law published by Thomson Reuters and Westlaw, James & Wells Intellectual Property Law in New Zealand.
These promotions come off the back of James & Wells’ recent announcement that Nick Mountford has joined the firm as a Partner and is establishing a local presence in Melbourne.
