Founded in Johannesburg in 1920 by Alfred Leonard Spoor, Spoor & Fisher has evolved into one of Africa’s most respected intellectual property law firms. Originally established as AL Spoor, the firm initially focused on patent agency services and achieved early success, setting the foundation for a century-long legacy of excellence. In the years following World War II, Leonard Joseph Fisher, a technical assistant turned wartime radar specialist, rejoined the firm, and together they expanded the practice into both patent and legal services, forming AL Spoor & Fisher.

By 1967, the firm adopted the name Spoor & Fisher, and over the next decade established a presence in the Jersey Channel Islands, solidifying its position as the continent’s leading IP practice. The firm’s global outlook, initiated through early relationships with Japan and the USA, continues to shape its service offerings today. In 2020, Spoor & Fisher proudly celebrated its centenary, marking 100 years of innovation, growth, and commitment to clients worldwide.

Specializing in Trade Marks, Patents, Copyright, Registered Designs, Plant Breeders’ Rights, Domain Names, Utility Models, and IP Litigation, Spoor & Fisher provides comprehensive services across Africa. The firm also supports SMMEs, manages commercial IP, advises on consumer and regulatory matters, and offers IP due diligence and portfolio management. Its anti-counterfeiting expertise ensures clients’ intellectual property is rigorously protected and enforced.

Guided by a vision to be the pan-African intellectual property hub of choice, Spoor & Fisher leverages cutting-edge technology, deep industry knowledge, and a multidisciplinary team of patent and trademark attorneys, scientists, engineers, and technical experts. Anchored in values of service quality, ethics, integrity, and industry leadership, the firm delivers innovative, pragmatic, and robust solutions to meet the complex and evolving IP needs of clients across the continent.