Expertise

Deborah’s broad patent practice is founded on a background in chemistry, which – together with her acute business brain – helps her to “understand technical matters in depth and apply what is needed for success.” Experienced in working with a wide range of clients, from start-ups and individual entrepreneurs to multinational corporations, she has also developed a flourishing trade mark practice.

Deborah’s technical background is in chemistry. Her practice spans a wide range of fields, from photovoltaic devices and printing techniques to carbohydrate synthesis, biotechnology, and a number of separation technologies, including air separation, chromatography and protein extraction.

An expert in drafting and prosecuting patent applications for a variety of businesses, ranging from multinational corporations to small start-up companies, she enjoys helping her clients develop and protect their inventions, going the extra mile where necessary to achieve the results they need. In addition, Deborah has experience in prosecuting and defending oppositions to European patents, and providing infringement and freedom to operate advice to clients across a range of technical fields.

Deborah also practises in trade marks. Here she has particular experience in the fashion and beauty sector, handling an international portfolio of marks for a well-known fragrance brand. This includes advising on strategies for extending and maintaining the portfolio, and conducting and advising on searches. Deborah is also regularly called upon to defend the brand in a number of jurisdictions, through opposition proceedings and the negotiation and drafting of settlement agreements.

Recommendations

Deborah is recommended in IAM Patent 1000 2023.

“Deborah Selden is an excellent and very effective patent attorney. I have worked with her for more than 10 years. She has helped me to draft and prosecute dozens of European patent applications. I am impressed by her up-to-date knowledge of patent law. Her analyses are thorough, she pays attention to the smallest details and is always able to suggest successful strategies that help to overcome hurdles along the way. I am very satisfied with her level of experience, commitment and service.”
Client testimonial, IAM Patent 1000 2023

“We work with Anna Hatt and Deborah Selden. Both are solidly reliable and knowledgeable with sharp minds, able to understand technical matters in depth and apply what is needed for success. They also don’t shy away from finding extra prior art etc., when there are gaps in the argumentation.”
Client testimonial, Legal 500 UK 2021

Career

Deborah trained and qualified with Beck Greener, having joined the firm in 2004.