Michael Vallance

Michael supports clients throughout the innovation lifecycle, from identifying and capturing new ideas to securing and enforcing intellectual property rights. He helps businesses use their IP to achieve practical commercial objectives, including protecting market share, deterring copyists, creating licensing opportunities, attracting investment and maximising the return on research and development.

His work spans all aspects of patent and design prosecution, and he is highly experienced in advising on freedom to operate, infringement, validity and the strategic management of third party rights. He frequently acts in European Patent Office oppositions and has achieved strong results in complex matters involving both technical and commercial considerations.

Michael has particular expertise in software, quantum technologies and scientific instrumentation. He works with organisations across these sectors to develop effective IP strategies, assess portfolio strength and evaluate risks, including advising investors who require clear assessments of the technology and IP landscape in high growth fields.

Michael also manages large international portfolios for businesses of varying sizes. His operational focus enables him to design and oversee efficient and scalable processes that meet client expectations for quality, consistency and timely delivery, even when handling substantial or fast moving workloads.

He works with clients across a wide range of industries, including advanced technology, telecommunications, scientific equipment, consumer products, fashion and sports. Clients value his clarity, pragmatism and technical insight, along with his commitment to providing thoughtful and accessible advice to stakeholders at all levels of experience.

Outside work, Michael enjoys spending time with his young family.

Michael regularly works across a range of different technology areas. These include:

• Cryogenics
• Scientific apparatus
• Fintech
• Microscopy
• Telecommunications
• Software
• Quantum technologies
• Medical devices
• Consumer goods
• Oil & gas, including surveying and extraction technologies

European Patent Attorney
UK Patent Attorney
UPC Representative

Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA)
Member of the European Patent Institute (EPI)

Michael graduated from the University of Manchester with a First Class Master’s Degree in Physics.

After joining GJE in 2012, Michael qualified as a UK Patent Attorney and a European Patent Attorney in 2017.  He became a senior associate in 2020, and joined the partnership in January 2025.