Alerts

Warning: Emails misusing the name of Gowling WLG (UK) LLP and the name of Michael Luckman

2 July 2026

Emails have been sent to individuals misusing the name of a genuine solicitor, Michael Luckman of Gowling WLG (UK) LLP in connection with purported trademark applications.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been informed that emails have been sent misusing the name of a genuine solicitor (see below) and a genuine firm (see below).

The emails have seen by the SRA purport to be from the 'British Trademark Experts' in relation to a 'UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) trademark application'. The correspondence quotes 'Section 10 of the Trade Marks legislation 1994', offering to 'prepare and file a UK trademark application'.

The email was sent from email address 'michael.luckman@britaintrademarksexpert.co.uk'. The signature provides a telephone number '07830 765607', a website 'www.britaintrademarkexperts.co.uk' and an address '76 Corporation St, Birmingham, B2 5LS, UK'.

Any business or transaction through the email addresses, telephone number or website as noted above are not undertaken by any individual or firm authorised and regulated by the SRA.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine firm called Gowling WLG (UK) LLP (SRA ID 382961). The genuine firm uses the email domain @gowlingwlg.com.

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine solicitor called Michael Luckman, whose SRA ID number is 131865. The genuine solicitor is employed at the genuine firm Gowling WLG (UK) LLP.

The genuine firm Gowling WLG (UK) LLP and the genuine solicitor Michael Luckman have confirmed that they do not have any connection to the emails referred to in the above alert.

What should I do?

When a firm's or individual's identity has been copied exactly (or cloned), due diligence is necessary. If you receive correspondence claiming to be from the above firm(s) or individual(s), or information of a similar nature to that described, you should conduct your own due diligence by checking the authenticity of the correspondence by contacting the law firm directly by reliable and established means. You can contact the SRA to find out if individuals or firms are regulated and authorised by the SRA and verify an individual's or firm's practising details. Other verification methods, such as checking public records (e.g. telephone directories and company records) may be required in other circumstances.