JUVE Comment

This medium-sized patent attorney firm ranks among Stuttgart’s leading practices. Witte Weller demonstrates particular strength in electrical and mechanical engineering. The firm maintains deep roots among regional SMEs whilst skilfully guiding its clients’ transition from traditional automotive supply to e-mobility.

The firm has simultaneously built an expanding international client base, primarily from Asia, providing comprehensive support in both prosecution and litigation matters.

Witte Weller’s dynamic development is evident not only in its nurturing of internal talent but also in its strategic integration of smaller firms and, most recently, a lateral hire. The firm recruited physicist Markus Hössle from Glawe Delfs Moll, an expert in computer-implemented inventions and software patenting. He brings valuable client relationships, including Canadian automotive supplier Magna, Black Forest-based printed circuit board manufacturer Schweiz Elektronik AG, and concrete pump manufacturer Putzmeister.

European set-up

The firm demonstrated its readiness for UPC litigation through its first proceedings for Supponor regarding sports stadium perimeter advertising, showcasing both the necessary team strength and experience. The past year saw dynamic growth, driven primarily by increased litigation work, particularly at the UPC. The firm’s established SME prosecution client base provides a solid foundation, while relationships with law firms open new opportunities. Both experienced partners with extensive expertise in EPO oppositions and national proceedings, and the carefully developed next generation of ambitious partners, continue to attract new clients. This marks a promising start for the Stuttgart-based firm in building the expertise needed to support SMEs at the UPC. The appointment of partner Torsten Duhme as a UPC judge, where he has already handled several cases, certainly enhances the firm’s profile.

Strengths

Litigation over medical devices and electronics patents.

Recommended individuals

Volker Heuckeroth, Markus Hössle, Stephan Keck (“extremely competent”, client), Christian Steil (all patent attorneys)

Team

20 patent attorneys

Partner moves

Markus Hössle (from Glawe Delfs Moll)

Clients

Litigation: Supponor and Sportfive against AIM Sport over electronic perimeter advertising in sports stadiums; Schneider + Nölke Lamellenfenster against Fieger Lamellenfenster in nullity suit over window technology (settled 2024).