Life Sciences

Today’s biotechnology and medical device companies encounter significant challenges. 

Successfully developing and commercialising new therapies requires navigating a complex regulatory landscape: protecting patents and other intellectual property, dealing with competition and clinical trial regulations, securing marketing authorisations, and addressing pricing, procurement and broader regulatory or reputational risks. In recent years, the sector has faced increased pressure from all sides, including demands for greater shareholder return, loss of revenue due to patent expiration or generic competition, fierce competition in key therapeutic areas, pricing pressure from authorities and payers, stricter regulation, rising R&D costs, and more assertive government enforcement.

Our life sciences team is one of the largest and most active in the legal sector, operating across more than 40 jurisdictions. We combine subject matter expertise with deep industry insight, supporting clients across biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, research and diagnostics.

We recognise that client needs vary by size and business area, and we quickly mobilise dedicated teams for each matter, whether for a major pharmaceutical company, a mid-sized medical device company or a biotech start-up. Our international and local practitioners work together to efficiently meet client demands.

DLA Piper’s life sciences practice covers litigation, compliance and investigations, IP strategy and enforcement, M&A, licensing and distribution, and clinical trials advice. We also provide regulatory support across other vital areas, including competition law, public procurement, government relations and contracts, environmental law, import/export, tax, real estate and employment law.