European AI companies seek investment beyond traditional borders

The UK’s artificial intelligence sector continues to demonstrate remarkable growth, with investors contributing a record £2.9 billion to British AI companies in 2024. While these figures underscore the strength and potential of the UK market, they also reflect broader trends in European AI investment, where companies increasingly look beyond traditional sources of funding to secure the capital required for scale and innovation.

Wait, You Don’t Have a Succession Plan Yet?

Katherine Evans | Senior Partner In the business world, succession planning is often overlooked. Much like writing a will, it feels like something that can be put off indefinitely. Yet for many business owners, their company is more than just an asset; it is part of their identity, a reflection of years of effort and dedication. Ensuring that it continues to …

When (and why) arbitration might be the better option

Katherine Evans | Senior Partner Clients often ask why, in some commercial contracts, their lawyers recommend that disputes are handled through the courts but, in others, they recommend arbitration. Sometimes it comes down to a question of judgement, but there are factors which should weigh more heavily in favour of one choice rather than the other. Large companies like the idea …

Staying competitive – How can businesses integrate sustainability into their practices?

Katherine Evans | Senior Partner There is a whispered concern in boardrooms around the world about the cost of management time involved in complying with ever evolving sustainability requirements across multiple jurisdictions. The voices of those who shout that there is no pressing need for change, and that businesses should just embrace the burning of fossil fuels without any thought of …

UK Data Reform: What businesses need to know about the Data (Use & Access) Bill

Katherine Evans | Senior Partner The UK’s data protection landscape is undergoing significant transformation with the progression of the Data (Use and Access) Bill through Parliament. Officially titled the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, this legislation is increasingly referred to as the Data (Use and Access) Bill to reflect its evolving scope. The third reading in the House of Lords …

A Guide to SEPs – Standard Essential Patents for Tech Startups

Katherine Evans | Senior Partner In the fast-paced world of technology, Standard Essential Patents (SEPs) have become crucial for tech startups aiming to integrate their innovations with global standards. SEPs are vital because they allow technologies to connect and interact seamlessly across different platforms, especially in industries like telecommunications, automotive, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These patents start as regular …

Harnessing global expertise

At Mirkwood Evans Vincent, our journey began in 2007 with a clear vision: to create a law firm that specialised in supporting clients in emerging technology sectors who operate on a global scale. From the very beginning, we recognised that businesses were no longer confined by borders. One of our founders, Katherine Evans, started her career as an international shipping …

Proactive, not reactive, risk management

Katherine Evans | Senior Partner How can proactive risk management strategies help businesses navigate regulatory and economic uncertainties? Proactive risk management strategies are essential for businesses to navigate regulatory and economic uncertainty effectively. These strategies involve anticipating potential risks, assessing their impact, and implementing measures to mitigate risks before they escalate. With a clear understanding of potential risks, leaders can make …

Expanding into the Middle East: The Benefits of ADGM for International Businesses

Katherine Evans | Senior Partner The Middle East is a pivotal region for global commerce, offering a unique blend of cultural richness, strategic location, and economic dynamism. At Mirkwood Evans Vincent, we help businesses to capitalise on the region’s strategic advantages with specialised legal support. Our collaboration with Paoletti Law Group enhances our ability to provide seamless support for clients looking …

The human touch – AI’s role in commerce

Katherine Evans | Senior Partner The Productivity Paradox: Does more technology mean less growth? Is there scope to use AI in commercial contracts? Will it save time, or ultimately cost more time in review and pose greater risk?Based on current AI models, the conceptual difference is marginal between using a template from an online precedent library and asking a junior associate …