Special Counsel, Auckland
Sophie Thoreau
Contact
- Auckland office
- DDI +64 9 363 0646
- M +64 21 359 985
Profile
Sophie specialises in intellectual property (IP) law and provides expert commercial advice within an IP context. With over 20 years of dedicated experience across New Zealand, Australia, Asia-Pacific, the USA and internationally, Sophie has developed a robust proficiency that spans the entire spectrum of IP matters – from development, protection and strategic planning to commercialisation, enforcement, transactional matters and complex IP disputes.
Sophie's deep understanding of IP law has enabled her to serve a diverse range of sectors including FMCG, technology, building and construction, and primary industries, notably in honey production. Her tailored approach helps clients to recognise and harness their valuable intellectual property assets to achieve their strategic goals. Her guidance is particularly valuable in helping innovators and businesses navigate the complexities of IP rights and optimise their operations.
Sophie is committed to ensuring that IP serves as a foundational asset for business growth, making her an essential partner for any enterprise looking to secure and capitalise on their intellectual innovations. Whether dealing with IP in domestic or international markets, Sophie's expertise ensures comprehensive, strategic, and proactive legal support for her clients at any point on their IP journey
"Sophie is a trusted pair of hands for all trade mark matters, leading her team of aspiring IP specialists as an exemplary practitioner."
World Trademark Review (WTR1000)
"Sophie Thoreau is a superb associate. Organised, calm and knowledgeable."
Legal 500
- Sophie is listed as a 'leading associate' for intellectual property by Legal 500
- Sophie is ranked 'gold' for IP prosecution and strategy, 'bronze' for enforcement and litigation, and 'recommended' for transactions by WTR 1000
- Secretary and member of the Auckland Women Lawyers' Association (AWLA)
- Member of the Intellectual Property Society of Australia and New Zealand (IPSANZ)
- Asian Patent Attorney Association (APAA) - New Zealand President
- Trade Marks Attorney (NZ)
- Fellow of New Zealand Intellectual Property Attorneys Inc.
- International Trademark Association (INTA) Non-Traditional Marks Committee member
- Asian Patent Attorneys Association (APAA) Designs Standing Committee member
- Contributor to the New Zealand Intellectual Property Journal
Experience
International
Work highlights
Advising BV Investment Partners
on aspects of its strategic investment into Kami, a leading classroom engagement and teacher productivity content provider to the US and global K12 market
Advising the Manuka Honey Appellation Society
for the benefit of the New Zealand honey industry globally
Advising Nestlé Health Science
on aspects of its acquisition of The Better Health Company including GO Healthy and Egmont Honey
Advising Aviat Networks
on aspects of its acquisition of the 4RF wireless solutions provider
Assisting Zespri
in its intellectual property matters
Advising clients in relation to complex IP disputes
including copyright, registered trade mark infringement, ownership and in relation to common law rights under consumer protection legislation including the Fair Trading Act 1986 and the common law tort of passing off