ENS' IP practice has maintained its gold-tier ranking in the WTR1000 2026 guide, with 13 individual recognitions, including 5 new entries.
WTR1000 had the following to say about ENS:
"ENS' combination of expertise, attention to detail, and proactive approach makes them an invaluable partner in all trademark efforts. It consistently demonstrates a high level of professionalism and a commitment to client service. With an unparalleled grasp of trademark law and an ability to navigate complex legal issues, the firm has proven itself invaluable, always gracing its clients with a proactive approach to identifying potential challenges and providing strategic solutions that greatly enhance trademark strategy and protection."
WTR1000 2026
The ENS IP practitioners received the following 13 individual rankings:
- Gaelyn Scott
-
- Ranked in Enforcement and Litigation (Gold)
- Ranked in Prosecution and Strategy (Gold)
"Gaelyn Scott is the architect of ENS's IP empire. With nearly three decades under her belt, she has transformed this department into a continental powerhouse. Gaelyn and her team have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of trademark law, ensuring that IP rights are adequality protected. The expertise offered in both local and international trademark law has been invaluable in guiding us through the registration process and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations."
Gaelyn is one of only two practitioners in South Africa to achieve a double gold ranking.
- Andrew Papadopoulos (new
entry)
- Ranked in Enforcement and Litigation (Gold)
- Ranked in Prosecution and Strategy (Silver)
- Craig Shapiro (new entry)
- Ranked in Prosecution and Strategy (Bronze)
- Fae Hassan
-
- Ranked in Prosecution and Strategy (Bronze)
"Fae Hassan is the rising star with a flair for precision. Her work in portfolio management and prosecution reflects a meticulous eye for detail and a commitment to safeguarding brands in competitive markets."
- Ilse du Plessis
-
- Ranked in Prosecution and Strategy (Gold)
"Ilse du Plessis is a highly knowledgeable trademark attorney whose expertise in IP law is unparalleld. She is committed to continuous learning and stays updated on the latest developments in trademark legislation, which informs her practice. Ilse's analytical skills allow her to assess complex trademark issues critically, providing insightful and pragmatic solutions. She is also exceptionally reliable, consistently delivering high-quality work on time, which is crucial in our fast-paced environment. Her supportive nature encourages collaboration within the team."
- Liézal Mostert:
-
- Ranked in Enforcement and Litigation (Bronze)
"Liézal Mostert is the enforcement virtuoso of ENS; a tactician whose strategies strike with clarity and force. Her forte lies in her ability to she crafts solutions that safeguard reputation in the courtroom and beyond."
- Manisha Bugwandeen-Doorasamy:
-
- Ranked in Prosecution and Strategy (Bronze)
"Manisha Bugwandeen-Doorasamy is the strategist behind Africa's most ambitious brand protection campaigns. From multi-jurisdictional filings to IP portfolio management, she has been an indispensable asset to global players navigating the complexities of first-to-file territories and counterfeit hotspots. Holistic, pragmatic and undeniably successful, Bugwandeen-Doorasamy has earned her accolades and the trust of clients across industries."
- Janine Thomas (new entry)
- Ranked in Transactions
"Making her WTR 1000 debut, Janine Thomas brings a touch of boardroom elegance to the world of intellectual property. As head of ENS's commercial IP team, she navigates the high-wire act of M&As and licensing with ease. Her experience, both in-house and in private practice, makes her indispensable for clients seeking to harmonise intellectual property with corporate ambition."
- Rowan Forster
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- Ranked in Prosecution and Strategy (Silver)
"Rowan Forster's chemistry background lends a scientific edge to his counsel, making him the go-to advisor for agrochemical and pharmaceutical titans. With over 30 years of experience, he blends technical mastery with strategic foresight, orchestrating portfolio management that spans patents, designs, and trademarks."
- Tammi Pretorius (new entry)
- Ranked in Enforcement and Litigation (bronze)
- Tevin Jones (new entry)
- Ranked as Next Generation Lawyer
Our IP practice continues to lead as a top-tier trade mark team, a remarkable achievement as we celebrate 16 years since its inception.
We extend our sincere thanks to our clients for their trust and invaluable feedback, which has helped make this achievement possible. We also recognise our dedicated team whose commitment and expertise ensure these rankings become a reality.
"A world-class IP team with a real African footprint, providing business savvy expertise in a cost-effective manner"