Taylor Wessing has hired top-rated Harbottle & Lewis intellectual property (IP) partner Mark Owen for its technology, media and telecoms (TMT) group.

Owen, who has headed up Harbottle's IP, technology and regulatory practice since he joined the firm in 1998, has advised on high-profile matters including taking a role for Lucasfilm on its 2011 copyright battle with a prop designer over the sale of the iconic Stoomtrooper helmets and armour from the Star Wars movie series.

Owen, whose practice has a particular focus on the digital media and e-commerce sectors, as well as related regulatory matters, has also been a member of the California Bar since 1992.

Taylor Wessing managing partner Tim Eyles said: "Mark's focus on new media clients and digital convergence issues aligns perfectly with Taylor Wessing's TMT offering, while his excellent contacts and experience in Silicon Valley will be a real asset to our international practice.

"His focus also links well with our plans to further develop domestic tech start up work through our dedicated Tech City office."

The news comes after Taylor Wessing hired UK rival Osborne Clarke's digital business sector head Mike Turner to head its UK TMT group, in a rare senior move between two of the UK's leading legal advisers in the technology arena.