Jonathan Aumonier-Ward

Gold - Individuals: prosecution and strategy

Reputed for its top-notch IP offering, AJ Park earns numerous plaudits from its patrons: “AJ Park’s support is absolutely invaluable.” Further plaudits include: “I have not worked with a firm that is as responsive as AJ Park.” “AJ Park’s advice is extremely practical and concise. There is no unnecessary exposition.” Established more than 130 years ago, the venerable practice remains the largest on the New Zealand market and is currently home to 96 fee earners. After its merger with Baldwins in 2020, it has consolidated its status as the IP market leader of the country. Its roster of clientele, including many of the most iconic Trans-Tasman brands and over one-third of global Fortune 500 companies, taps into the vast reservoir of expertise and knowledge offered by its trademark team. Rising IP litigator Thomas Huthwaite garners acclaim for his outstanding contentious work: “Thomas was extremely responsive and provided an aura of calm, which was very useful given that these urgent disputes often provoked emotional reactions in the business. His advice is always cogent and clear. He appears to have the law ‘at his fingertips’, is clearly an expert in his field, and as a result instils confidence in those that he meets. His passion for the subject shines through to all he meets.” “Thomas deftly navigated several procedural issues that were troubling me during the course of the dispute. He maintained his composure and professionalism throughout what was, at times, a quite nasty dispute.” Prior to joining AJ Park, Paul Johns worked in leading outfits in the United Kingdom and New Zealand and is qualified as both a solicitor and a barrister. He works closely with Huthwaite on the litigation front. Known for his mediation and negotiation, he also makes frequent appearances at all levels of the New Zealand courts. For the past three decades IP lawyer Penelope Catley has assisted countless brands in Trans-Tasman trademark and brand protection matters. Alongside her comes Jonathan Aumonier-Ward, whose no-nonsense approach coupled with his well-honed trademark skills make him the top choice and closest ally on any New Zealand copyright or trademark issue. Kate Giddens draws judiciously on her previous experience as an IPONZ Senior Trademark Examiner to dispense valuable IP counsel to clients in the automotive, entertainment, food and beverage, sportswear and telecommunication sectors. Special Counsel Sarah Harrison rejoined the team in September 2022 and continues to provide commercially pragmatic IP advice in an easily understood manner.