Simon Gallant

“Intelligent, efficient and focused”

(Chambers and Partners Legal Directory 2008)

“Straight talking....he knows the law like the back of his hand”

(Chambers and Partners Legal Directory 2007)

Simon is a commercial litigator specialising in Media Law and Intellectual Property.

He is described as a leading individual in Defamation/Reputation Management in Chambers and Partners Directory 2008.

Over the past twenty years Simon has acted in a number of landmark libel cases including Stern v Piper, Berkoff v Burchill and Lowe v Associated Newspapers. Simon acted for Rupert Lowe, the then Chairman of Southampton Football Club, in High Court libel proceedings where he recovered £250,000 damages – one of the largest awards in the past 10 years.

Simon has also acted in hundreds of matters for creative, entertainment and design-led companies in IP claims covering copyright, design rights, passing off, trade marks and patents. He is particularly well known for his work in the fashion sector where he represents some of the biggest brands in the UK.

In addition to legal practice, Simon’s career has spanned the worlds of business, academia and public policy. A former lecturer in law at the University of Bristol, Simon was a founder of Eden Communications, a joint venture partner with Telewest and BBC Technology in Living Health TV. Living Health won £3.8m from the Department of Health to pilot the delivery of health information and services for the NHS during 2002 using digital interactive television.

Between 1998 and 2001 Simon was Consultant Legal Adviser to the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising. In that role he provided pre-clearance advice to over 200 advertising agencies on Intellectual Property matters. He was also a member of the Independent Television Commission's Advertising Advisory Committee and the Committee of Advertising Practice.

Simon is an editor of Tottel’s Journal of Computer, Media and Communications Law. He is joint author of "Media Law: A Practical Guide to Managing Publication Risks" published by Sweet & Maxwell. Simon is also an active member of the International Bar Association and INTA.

Simon is a graduate of Cardiff University (LLB (hons)) and Trinity Hall, Cambridge (LLM, 1st class honours). Simon was a Partner and Consultant at Mishcon de Reya for many years before leaving to launch Gallant Macmillan.

Direct Dial 020 7758 4722
Email simon.gallant@gmlegal.co.uk

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