Katsiaryna Pazniak, IP Solicitor, Sterling Law

Katsiaryna Pazniak (LLM Intellectual Property Law, 2018) is an experienced IP Solicitor at Sterling Law. She has extensive expertise in business consulting and legal tech, having worked with Fortune 100 companies, Magic Circle law firms, and some of the world’s largest corporations. Katsiaryna also volunteers as a UCL Laws mentor. 

What motivated you to study the LLM at UCL Laws?

I completed my LLB at the Belarusian State University, and from the very beginning I knew that IP law was the area I wanted to specialise in. However, in my home country, the opportunities to pursue IP at a high academic and professional level were limited. I therefore set my goal on an LLM from one of the world’s leading universities. I got offers from all universities where I applied for an LLM. However, when I researched programmes, UCL stood out because it offered exactly what I was looking for: a strong and specialised focus on IP law, taught at an institution with an outstanding global reputation. Another important factor for me was location. I specifically wanted to study in London, not only for the academic environment but also to be able to integrate quickly into the professional community and begin building my career. UCL gave me the perfect combination of both.

Were there any particular professors, modules or extracurricular activities that influenced your personal or professional development?

I had a great deal of respect and appreciation for all the professors who taught me during my time at UCL, but one of the most influential experiences outside the classroom was my participation in the Law Without Walls programme. Taking part in a sprint really shaped me, both as a future lawyer and as an individual. It introduced me to an inspiring global community of like-minded legal professionals who are not only deeply committed to the law itself, but also to the technological and innovative developments that are transforming the legal industry. That exposure broadened my perspective and gave me confidence in thinking beyond traditional boundaries of law.

Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your time at UCL Laws that has had a lasting impact on you?

One of my most memorable moments at UCL was right at the very beginning, when I first sat in a room full of students who, like me, wanted to specialise in IP law. I remember being struck by how bright, motivated, and dedicated they all were. And at that moment I had a very strong feeling that I was exactly in the right place, at the right time, surrounded by like-minded people. What made it even more special was that, despite everyone’s professionalism and focus, there was also so much warmth, coffees, jokes, and laughter that created a real sense of community. That combination of intellectual challenge and human connection left a lasting impact on me.

How do you believe your experience at UCL Laws differed from other institutions offering similar programmes?

What stood out to me about UCL Laws was the combination of academic excellence and location. Studying in the very heart of London gave me access not only to world-class professors and research, but also to a global legal community right on my doorstep. The programme brought together exceptionally talented students from all over the world, which created a uniquely diverse and stimulating environment. Beyond the classroom, UCL’s strong focus on research, innovation, and engagement with real-world legal issues made the experience particularly dynamic. I think that combination of academic rigour, diversity, and London’s professional opportunities is what truly sets UCL apart.

How has your career path evolved since finishing the LLM, and how did UCL Laws prepare you for this?

Although the LLM in Intellectual Property Law at UCL lasted only one year, it has had a lasting impact far beyond that. The opportunities I received through UCL were truly incredible. Soon after finishing the programme, I was able to secure an internship in London. This is something that is not very common after such a short time in the UK, and I credit my UCL degree with helping to make that possible.

In addition, I launched my own start-up during this time and was fortunate to be endorsed by UCL to join its Hatchery Accelerator programme. That experience introduced me to a network of inspiring people and developed a wide range of skills. Entrepreneurship forces you to grow in so many ways, and it complemented my legal training perfectly.

Ultimately, the combination of my LLM studies and entrepreneurial experience helped me build and grow the Intellectual Property department with the support of Sterling Law, where I now work. Even though my degree was a one-year programme, UCL continues to give back through connections, opportunities, and an ongoing sense of community. That lasting support has been invaluable in shaping my career.

Were there any additional exams/qualifications you needed to take to get you where you are today?

Professional development has always been very important to me, and throughout my career I’ve consistently invested in it. Even early on, while working in consulting, I completed courses such as Lean Six Sigma and other managerial and project management qualifications.

The most significant step was taking the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). After gaining several years of qualifying legal experience in London, it was the natural and necessary progression for me. I successfully passed both SQE1 and SQE2 on my first attempt and qualified as a solicitor in the UK. That was not only a major professional milestone, but also a very meaningful personal achievement.

What would you say has been the highlight of your career, or had the biggest impact on you?

It’s difficult to single out just one highlight, because each stage of my career has brought meaningful experiences. From handling straightforward trade mark registrations to more complex matters such as arguing acquired distinctiveness, challenging UKIPO decisions, and defending trade mark infringement cases. I value each of those experiences, and above all, I value the trust my clients place in me.

I’ve also had the privilege of working with some truly remarkable clients, including global firms, Fortune 100 companies, leading food and beverage producers, as well as major names in the fashion and automotive industries. Being entrusted to work with such organisations has been both an honour and a responsibility that has had a lasting impact on my professional growth. For me, the real highlight is the combination of this client trust and the variety of challenges I’ve been able to take on.

What are some unique challenges in IP law at the moment?

Like many IP professionals, I would say one of the most unique challenges today is the rise of artificial intelligence. AI is already reshaping the way we think about IP, and yet there are still so many unanswered questions. This uncertainty places pressure not only on practitioners advising clients, but also on professors and researchers who are being asked the same difficult questions by their students. In my view, this makes IP one of the most exciting and relevant areas of law to be in right now. With the growth of AI, the importance of IP law has never been greater, and I expect it will continue to play a central role in shaping innovation in the years ahead.

You’ve been volunteering as a UCL Laws alumni mentor, sharing your time and expertise with a current student. What has that experience been like for you? Would you recommend it?

I would absolutely recommend becoming a UCL Laws mentor. For me, it has been an incredibly rewarding experience. There is nothing more meaningful than giving back to the community and being able to offer guidance to someone at the very beginning of their professional journey.

My own experience has been only positive. The student I mentored was exceptional, which reflects the outstanding quality of UCL students. It was a real pleasure to work with someone so bright and motivated, and the exchange of ideas felt effortless. I only wish I had more opportunities to do mentoring, because it is such a fulfilling way to stay connected with UCL and to support the next generation of lawyers.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking of doing an LLM at UCL Laws?

Don’t think – do it!

What careers advice or guidance would you give to current students or recent graduates who are just starting out?

I often share advice from the perspective of an international student, because my experience was shaped by that journey. When you require visa sponsorship, it can feel daunting at first, especially if you only focus on the largest firms or a single “tier” of the profession.

My main advice is: don’t give up. London is an incredible city with opportunities for everyone, but you need to remain open-minded. Be willing to explore different paths, take on opportunities even if they don’t look exactly like what you first imagined, and build from there. Every experience adds value, and often the opportunities you least expect will open the most important doors.

Find out more about Katsiaryna on LinkedIn.