JUVE Comment

This well-positioned IP boutique is best known for its litigation in the telecoms sector and in mechanics patents. Its reputation is largely based on close ties to regular client ZTE, for whom co-founder and partner Jean-Frédéric Gaultier is often active in telecoms litigation. He works closely with the German office for this, which from the very beginning has lent the team cross-border visibility. It is currently litigating for the Chinese mobile phone manufacturer in France and Germany in some of the highest stakes SEP proceedings in Europe against NPE Intellectual Ventures. Gaultier also enjoys the trust of other clients from the mobile communications sector for his experience in FRAND issues.

The Paris team advises on mechanics patents from the construction, packaging, sports equipment and medical engineering sectors. Despite frequent work for regular client Boston Scientific, however, the firm lacks visibility in patent litigation in the pharma sector, a crucial line of work for many French firms.

Strengths

Mobile communications litigation

European strategy

Since its launch in 2017 the firm has had an international setup. The concept is based on the positioning of the patent team around Jean-Frédéric Gaultier in France and Thomas Lynker in Munich as well as growing ties to ZTE and Boston Scientific. In Madrid, the firm works closely with the IP firm Baylos. This setup should make Taliens an attractive partner for UK firms seeking closer ties to the continental European system.

Taliens could capitalise on such connections to compete with large firms like Bird & Bird or Hogan Lovells for pan-European cross-border work. But Taliens will not enter into these without something in return because, at the moment, many UK firms are reorganising due to Brexit. At the same time, the uncertain future of the UPC has changed the signs for the internationally-positioned firm. If it wants to remain attractive for pan-European disputes, an area into which many much larger competitors are moving, an expansion into other markets on the continent, especially Italy, could be an option.

Recommended individuals

Jean-Frédéric Gaultier (“knows the French court system very well,” client; “very competent,” competitor)

Team

2 partners, 5 associates

Specialties

Exclusively active in IP. Much patent litigation. Also contract drafting, licences and strategic advice. Trademarks and unfair competition.

Clients

Litigation: ZTE (defendant) against Intellectual Ventures over mobile technology. Frequent advice for Boston Scientific and Aptar.