CIPIL is extremely proud and delighted to spread the exciting news that Professor Lionel Bently (former long-standing CIPIL Director) has been appointed as a King’s Counsel honoris causa. The names of this year’s new honorary and practising KCs were announced by the Ministry of Justice on 23 December 2022.
Lionel Bently is Professor of Intellectual Property Law, a Fellow at Emmanuel College and currently also serving as CIPIL Deputy Director at the University of Cambridge. The announcement highlighted his publications which rank among the most influential texts in intellectual property law and for his position in playing a crucial role in influencing intellectual property law in this jurisdiction and beyond.
The rank of KC honoris causa is conferred by The King on the recommendation of the Lord Chancellor to lawyers who have made a 'major contribution to the law of England and Wales outside practice in the courts'. Barristers and solicitors may be appointed as KCs in recognition of their excellence in advocacy. Since the late nineteenth century a small number of honorary KCs have also been appointed each year, often academic lawyers whose work has advanced the understanding of English law and influenced its development. 9 Honorary KCs were appointed this year in addition to 95 practising KCs.
The Lord Chancellor will preside over the appointment ceremony, where the rank will formally be bestowed upon successful applicants, at Westminster Hall on 27 March 2023.
I am very touched that people appreciate my efforts and contributions, though, of course, I have benefited from the learning, support, advice and assistance of countless mentors, colleagues and friends. Lionel Bently
Responding to his appointment, Professor Bently said:
"I am delighted to receive what is truly an honour. I would like to thank all those involved in nominating me, both for giving up their time to do so and the very generous things they must have said about me; and all those who have responded to this news with such warmth. I am very touched that people appreciate my efforts and contributions, though, of course, I have benefited from the learning, support, advice and assistance of countless mentors, colleagues and friends. "
The Co-Directors of CIPIL, Professors Henning Grosse Ruse-Khan and David Erdos added:
"This is excellent news and so well deserved. Lionel has been the central figure and driver of CIPIL, something which has been clearly apparent throughout the decade or so during which we have been associated with the Centre. His generosity in offering advice and guidance, his immense knowledge of IP and Information Law, and his leadership over so many years has been instrumental for research and teaching on IP and Information Law at Cambridge, and we thank Lionel for all his relentless effort and work for CIPIL and beyond."