The results of MIP's annual research are detailed rankings of the leading firms practising intellectual property in each country. The leading UK firms in 2011 are presented in the form of 34 firms split into five tiers; those in the top tiers received the most recommendations for the quality and depth of their practice. The survey reveals which firms are rated by their peers for the strength of their expertise and the depth of their ability to service clients. Potter Clarkson is the only firm in all five tiers of the recommended UK firms not to have a London office.

The 2011 editorial comments have not yet been published by MIP, but in its 2010 survey MIP stated:

"Of the provincial attorney firms, Potter Clarkson is the clear leader for patent work. Based in a single Nottingham office, the firm has a "no generalists" approach and operates a highly specialised practice with clearly delineated teams. For the biotechnology and pharmaceuticals team, which consists of 20 attorneys and is one of the UK's biggest, 2009 was a particularly busy year. Under the leadership of managing partner Richard Bassett, it represented AstraZeneca in EPO proceedings to gain protection for its product Nexium - one of the world's biggest-selling drugs. The firm has a balanced client list in which companies from the UK, US, Japan and Scandinavia all feature. One client praised the firm for its personal approach: "They make you feel like you're on their radar and that you are important to them. I feel safe and secure acting on their advice."

Managing partner Richard Bassett commented:

"We always strive to meet and exceed the expectations of our clients and deliver work of the highest quality. This top tier ranking in the latest MIP survey is gratifying because it is based on feedback from our clients and fellow professionals in rival firms. However, we certainly won't be resting on our laurels."