Tim Stebbing - Partner

UK and European Patent Attorney
BSc Physics with Electronics and Computing
Edinburgh University

"The blue LED was invented by Shuji Nakamura while working in Japan at Nichia Corporation in 1993. It is my favourite invention because it is an enabling technology for next-generation optical disks, as well as providing white light when added to red and green LEDs. What's more, blue LEDs enhance the appearance of many other items from cars to key rings. From the viewpoint of a patent attorney, the blue LED is also interesting as it was the subject of a long-running legal action between Mr Nakamura and Nichia, concerning the amount of financial reward appropriate for this ground-breaking invention. "

Since joining Haseltine Lake in 1983, Tim has gained experience in the diverse areas of semiconductor technology, telecommunications and networks, office equipment, display technologies, storage devices, image processing, computing including software, and Internet and business-related inventions. Aside from electronics, Tim has also gained experience in sports technology and metals processing. He has particular knowledge of European patent procedure, having spent six years working in our Munich Office.

Tim’s clients include several multinational electronics and computer companies, and one of the world's biggest steel companies. A regular overseas traveller particularly to Japan and the USA, Tim is a member of the International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI).