Paddy Gardiner is head of Simkins’ disputes group. He handles disputes across a range of sectors, particularly in the media and entertainment industries, including: breach of contract, professional negligence and shareholder claims; complex copyright and trade mark infringement claims; injunction proceedings; and proceedings in the Copyright, Tax and Competition Appeals Tribunals.
Paddy has litigated many disputes through to trial, although where possible he seeks to settle them through alternative dispute resolution. He deploys a sensible, pragmatic and cost-effective approach for clients. He has represented both corporates and high net worth individuals, including PRS for Music, Sir Elton John, U2, PPL and the Jimi Hendrix and Bob Marley estates.
Paddy is recommended in the Chambers UK 2026 Guide for ‘Music: Contentious’, with the Guide describing him as “immensely experienced” and a “go-to lawyer”. He is also recognised in The Legal 500 UK 2026, which describes him as “one of the top copyright and music litigators in the UK” and “a dream lawyer for any client: clever, pleasant, even-tempered and consistent.”
They were incredibly understanding of our unique needs and collaborated in a very flexible way. I would describe the team as very approachable and capable – they took time to listen to our requirements and made recommendations accordingly.
Highly experienced operators with the ability to think outside the box.
…very supportive while getting on with the job in a very efficient way and handling tricky situations
Paddy is immensely experienced and a good, safe pair of hands. I would always recommend him in this field as he is a leading media and entertainment lawyer.
Paddy Gardiner is one of the top copyright and music litigators in the UK. He is a dream lawyer for any client: clever, pleasant, even-tempered and consistent. Always a voice of calm and reason.
If you have a music business problem, Paddy Gardiner will deal with it, sensibly, practically and effectively. Amongst the best.
He is very experienced in the music and entertainment industries. He has good sound judgement and is a calm sound presence. He is exactly what clients want.
Paddy Gardiner is one of the leading music lawyers in the UK, especially on copyright issues. He has enormous experience of media and entertainment disputes. He is intelligent, level-headed and has excellent judgment. Clients trust his advice for a reason.
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