Pete is a commercial lawyer with a strong background in intellectual property and corporate law. Recognised by The Legal 500 for his expertise in intellectual property, he helps businesses protect and commercialise their ideas, brands and products while putting the right commercial agreements in place to support their growth.
He qualified as a solicitor in 2008 and has worked in private practice across Yorkshire and London, as well as with the Government Legal Department.
Pete advises on:
- commercial contracts;
- intellectual property strategy and protection;
- commercialisation of intellectual property;
- share sales;
- management buyouts;
- company reorganisations; and
- EMI share schemes.
His breadth of experience across commercial, corporate and intellectual property work means he can look at legal issues in the wider context of a client’s business, helping them understand how contracts, ownership and intellectual property fit together.
Pete works with businesses of different sizes and stages of growth, providing practical advice that is focused on their commercial objectives. He takes a solutions-focused approach, working closely with clients to understand what they want to achieve and helping them find a clear and workable route forward.
Before joining Harper James, Pete was a Legal Director and led the Intellectual Property team at Blacks, having rejoined the firm in 2022 as a Senior Associate. Earlier in his career, he trained at a national law firm in Hull and also worked with the Government Legal Department.