Renowned trademark attorney strengthens specialist service at Ward Hadaway

Leading Leeds-based law firm Ward Hadaway has announced a key strategic appointment to its intellectual property team.

Sonia Burgess, a highly experienced chartered trademark attorney, joins the team bringing with her considerable specialist expertise in trademark law. She has a rich, specialist background, having trained with a national intellectual property firm.

Sonia's appointment represents a significant milestone for Ward Hadaway's trademark legal services, building on a 20-year legacy. Bringing her into the fold will enable the firm to rapidly expand the scope and enhance the complexity of its offerings in this specialist area of law.

Bill Goodwin, head of IT/IP who is based in the firm’s Leeds office and is himself a qualified trademark attorney, said: “Sonia’s skillset will provide an invaluable asset to our clients. Her joining signifies our ongoing commitment to innovation and service excellence particularly in the trademark field, where our services have been steadily expanding over the last few years. It's an exciting new chapter in our growth, and we’re delighted to have Sonia on board.”

Sonia, who played a pivotal role in setting up a trademark practice at a previous law firm, complements the skills of the existing team. This includes other chartered trademark attorneys and a diverse range of intellectual property and commercial law specialists.

Emma Digby, executive partner in Leeds, said: “Sonia's addition to our team is an exciting development, reflective of our commitment to continuous growth of our experience and expertise. Her unique background will enhance our multidisciplinary approach to trademark law and enable us to further meet the needs of a wider spectrum of clients that require comprehensive trademark legal support. Welcome to the team, Sonia.”

Ward Hadaway provides a breadth of legal services in intellectual property law including brand management and protection, copyright issues and infringement disputes alongside a trademark and design registration portfolio service. In terms of trademark services specifically, the firm works with all types of businesses from startups to large household names and now handles legal matters for over 1,000 active trademarks.

Sonia Burgess added: “I’m pleased to join Ward Hadaway, which is well known for its excellent client service. The firm also has a highly collaborative culture, where everyone works together to achieve the best outcome for clients - which aligns closely with my own values. One of the key objectives of my new role is to expand the scope and diversity of our work both regionally and nationally, which is an exciting challenge I’m looking forward to.”