Spoor & Fisher is proud to have been recognised, once again, as one of South Africa’s Band 1 firms for 2020, according to Chambers & Partners. 

The Chambers review refers to Spoor & Fisher as, “[a] distinguished practice with renowned proficiency across a heterogeneous variety of IP-related commercial concerns. Well regarded for its ability to service its prestigious client base in South Africa and throughout the continent, with clients derived from industry sectors such as healthcare, consumer goods and financial services. Demonstrates proficiency acting for clients in…trade mark and patent prosecution and enforcement, acting for both plaintiffs and defendants. Noted for its expertise in anti-counterfeiting.”

Furthermore, sources speak highly of the firm’s approach, saying: “It is an agile and responsive team; no project is too small and no challenge is too big” and adding that it is “client-centred, responsive, and the services are tailored to the client’s needs”.

This year’s ranking specifically highlights Carl van Rooyen, Charles Webster, Eben van Wyk and Herman Blignaut for their expertise in trade mark-related matters, and cites Jonathan Whittaker and Hugh Moubray for their skilled patent litigation.

Clients recommend Carl Van Rooyen as “highly approachable and competent” with his peers recognising him as “experienced and well respected”, while the industry considers Charles Webster to be “experienced and respected”. 

Eben van Wyk draws praise for being a “very practical lawyer” who is “solution-oriented and understands [clients’] businesses”, and Hugh Moubray is said to be “very good at being the link between the client and the barrister in court”. 

The Chambers Global Guide ranks top lawyers and firms in over 190 countries, based on technical legal ability, client service, commercial vision and business understanding, diligence, value for money, depth of team, and professional conduct.

The ratings are generated from direct client feedback, information submitted by each firm, and an in-depth review of public filings on each firm’s transactions – all of which is analysed by a London-based team of 200+ researchers.