Seminar
ThinkHouse Foundations Autumn Seminar - Birmingham
16 October 2025
09:00-13:30
ThinkHouse Foundations is our tailored programme for in-house lawyers starting out in their careers. Drawing on the topics and insights that matter to you, we explore the opportunities and challenges faced by paralegals, trainees and lawyers with up to five years' experience. These events are specifically tailored to the needs of the in-house lawyer and also offer the opportunity to network with peers at a similar career stage.
At the seminar, we will deliver training on four topics, all designed to help broaden your knowledge and provide practical take-away points you can apply in your day-to-day role.
Good news / B.A.D news: Top of the waves IP update
Lucy Singer will share key legal and regulatory updates for brand owners navigating today's fast-changing landscape. She'll cover:
- Thatchers v Aldi: A recent Court of Appeal decision on look-a-like packaging and trademark infringement.
- Regulatory enforcement: How AI and new consumer law powers are enhancing the CMA and ASA's ability to crack down on misleading practices.
- Greenwashing: Who's been caught out and what it means for sustainability claims.
- Government consultations: Proposed changes to designs law, copyright, and AI regulation.
Making sense of the new Data Use and Access Act
Alex Gill will provide an overview of the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025, a landmark update to UK data protection law. She will unpack the Act's key reforms, including clarifications on Data Subject Access Requests (DSARs), introduction of "Recognised Legitimate Interests" for lawful data processing, changes to automated decision-making provisions under the UK GDPR and implications for compliance with PECR and internal governance. Attendees will gain practical insights into how these changes affect day-to-day operations and risk management, helping legal teams stay aligned with evolving regulatory expectations.
'Whose side are you on?' – an update on the recent SRA guidance for in-house lawyers
Helen Carr will provide an update on recent developments in regulatory guidance and SRA expectations. The session will provide a brief overview of the recent consultation by and guidance from the SRA on in-house solicitors and will consider the sometimes difficult juxtaposition between professional and business interests and obligations. It will also reflect on how the guidance impacts on the strategic and day-to-day roles of in-house counsel and some of the challenges faced by those in more junior roles.
Unlock your potential with a growth mindset
Gemma Dipple will help you gain valuable insights into the power of a growth mindset and its transformative impact on both personal and professional development. This interactive session will equip you with practical strategies to embrace challenges, seek constructive feedback and learn from setbacks. Seize this opportunity to enhance your self-development and elevate your career to new heights.
We hope you can join us at one of the events for a morning of legal updates, skills development and peer networking.
Event contact
Susan Barnes
Senior Corporate Communications Executive
+44 (0)121 393 0146
susan.barnes@gowlingwlg.com
Gowling WLG is an accredited provider with the Bar Standards Board (provider ID number 1940). For all other professions, we suggest that you check with your professional body or your learning and development team as to whether this event meets the CPD requirements for your profession. Please do get in touch if you have any further queries about this event and CPD.
Gowling WLG is committed to ensuring people with disabilities can participate fully in our events. If you would like to attend this event and there is something which will help you do so more easily, please provide details to the event organiser.