Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Dublin, PURDYLUCEY has grown to become one of Ireland’s leading intellectual property firms, advising clients from start-ups to multinational organisations on patents, trademarks and IP strategy. The firm was ranked Tier 1 for Patent Prosecution in Ireland in the 2026 Managing IP STARS rankings and was named among the Financial Times’ Europe’s Leading Patent Law Firms in 2025.

Founded in 2015, building on the long-established practice of John A. O’Brien & Associates, Weldon O’Brien has earned a strong reputation for advising innovative companies in the medical technology, engineering, energy systems and communications technology sectors. The Cork-based firm is recognised for its technical expertise and long-standing client relationships.

The firms will collaborate over the next two years before joining forces in June 2028.

Barry Purdy, co-founder and director of PURDYLUCEY, said: “We have long been aware of the quality of the work of the Weldon O’Brien team and the lasting relationships they have built with their clients. We believe they are an excellent fit for what we represent as a firm and where we are going, and we look forward to working closely with them.”

Michael Lucey, co-founder and director of PURDYLUCEY, added: “What became clear very quickly was how our firms share the same approach to working with clients, combining deep technical expertise with practical, commercially focused advice. We are delighted to welcome the team from Weldon O’Brien to PURDYLUCEY.”

Michael Weldon, director of Weldon O’Brien, said: “This agreement marks an exciting new chapter for Weldon O’Brien. The phased transition gives our clients confidence and continuity, while creating new opportunities for our people as part of a larger specialist practice. I’m looking forward to working closely with Barry, Michael and the team over the coming years.”

Following completion in 2028, the combined firm will comprise sixteen patent attorneys and trainee patent attorneys, supported by ten professional support staff, creating one of Ireland’s largest specialist patent practices with expertise spanning life sciences, medical technologies, engineering, software, electronics, communications and advanced manufacturing.