Perkins Coie Strengthens International IP Disputes Platform with Hire of Caitlin Heard

LONDON (18 May 2026)—Perkins Coie has appointed Caitlin Heard as a partner in London, further strengthening its international intellectual property and technology disputes capabilities at a time of significant strategic momentum for the firm. 

Caitlin joins with a leading practice focused on complex, multi-jurisdictional IP litigation and strategic advisory work for businesses operating across multiple markets. Her arrival adds further depth to the firm’s ability to support clients managing disputes, regulation and commercial risk across borders. She is particularly recognised for her work on standard essential patents and FRAND licensing disputes, where proceedings in the UK often form part of broader international strategies. Her practice also spans high-value matters involving software, telecommunications, data, life sciences, digital platforms and brand protection. 

Christopher Hanewicz, firmwide co-chair of Perkins Coie’s Intellectual Property practice, said: “Caitlin is an outstanding addition to our team. Clients increasingly need advisers who can navigate sophisticated disputes that cut across jurisdictions, technologies and regulatory regimes. Her arrival further strengthens our ability to deliver broad strategic advice, to innovative businesses operating internationally.” 

Caitlin Heard said: “Perkins Coie has an exceptional reputation for advising many of the world’s most innovative companies on their most important matters. The firm’s international ambition, collaborative culture and strength in technology made this a compelling opportunity. I look forward to helping clients navigate complex disputes and opportunities in strategically important markets.” 

Before joining Perkins Coie, Caitlin was Co-Head of the International IP Group at CMS. She is individually ranked in Legal 500 and Chambers for Intellectual Property: Patents. She is recognised as a leader by World IP Review, named a “notable practitioner” by IP Stars, and listed in IAM Patent 1000: The World’s Leading Patent Professionals. She was also recognised by Juve as one of 5 “ones to watch” in the UK patent market and as an “IP Trailblazer” in World Intellectual Property Review’s Influential Women.