IP Firm Bereskin & Parr launches quantum technology practice group

(Law.com) Canadian intellectual property boutique Bereskin & Parr is launching a new quantum technologies practice.
Bereskin’s quantum technology practice group will provide legal, patent and trademark services to companies developing quantum computers, quantum sensors, and other related quantum technologies, as well as those who are using quantum technology.
Gale said lawyers at the firm already have existing clients in the space, so the firm wanted to “pool together” that expertise and experience to “coordinate best practices” and offer clients the optimal professionals for their needs.
“Governments and businesses are putting a lot more focus on quantum technology, both in terms of [research and development] and in terms of investment,” said Cameron Gale, the Toronto-based partner co-leading the new practice group with Louis-Pierre Gravelle in Montreal, adding that the area is expected to grow fairly rapidly over the next few years.
The Bereskin team is working with companies that develop and design quantum computers and applications for quantum computers, Gale said.
“I’ve been working recently with a company that is involved in the development of satellite constellations and implementing quantum encryption technology into satellite communication,” he said.
The firm’s lawyers have noticed that many companies don’t protect their new IP assets, so particularly in the context of quantum technologies, Bereskin is working to “get companies to think about IP at the early stage.”