David J Harris |  |
David specialises in cases involving physics, engineering, electronics and computing. He has drafted and dealt with the prosecution of patent applications in the fields of vehicle systems, especially power assisted steering, braking and guidance systems, microwave technology and medical electronics. He also deals with designs, especially European Community Registered Designs.
David handles a variety of work for some of Barker Brettell’s major clients, including a large amount of work in the automotive sector. In addition, David has a wide range of smaller clients, and recognises the importance of intellectual property (IP) protection when starting a new enterprise. He has advised these clients on a range of technologies, from the protection of new jewellery, through exercise equipment to agricultural machinery. David deals with presentation of patent applications before the European Patent Office (EPO) and UK Intellectual Property Office (UK-IPO) as well as overseas patent offices, and has regularly attended hearings at the EPO.
Recent projects of his have included part-time secondment as an in-house patent attorney to two clients: firstly a small-to-medium technology spinout company where he was responsible for the company’s patent portfolio; and secondly to a major telecommunications firm to assist with prosecuting their existing caseload whilst helping them extend their portfolio by drafting a series of new patent applications. He has also given talks to PhD students at a major UK research university on the importance of IP.
David joined Barker Brettell in 2001. Since then, he qualified as a Chartered Patent Attorney in October 2005, winning the Michael Jones Prize 2004 for his performance, and as a European Patent Attorney in September 2006. David was promoted to an Associate in 2008. David graduated from the Natural Sciences course of the University of Cambridge in June 2001, gaining the degrees of Master of Arts and Master of Natural Sciences for his work in Experimental and Theoretical Physics.
Outside work, David is a keen musician and is a member of several orchestras. He can often be seen around Birmingham on two wheels: occasionally motorised, sometimes not.
