JUVE Comment

The leading patents practice of this US firm is preparing for the launch of the UPC system, with a well-positioned patent attorney practice and a litigation team that is firmly established in Munich. The mixed approach and excellent links to US companies provide an excellent basis. For some time, the German patents practice has been growing mainly within existing client connections. For instance, the litigation team is conducting a host of major proceedings for pharmaceuticals, biotech and medical product manufacturers, among them economically important proceedings for Identix. Somewhat less pronounced is its work for auto manufacturers, chemicals and air transport companies. JD is hardly present at all, however, in mobile communications suits. In summer 2015, an experienced litigator moved to Vossius leaving JD with no litigation expertise in Düsseldorf.

Strengths

Patent prosecution with technical expertise in the pharmaceuticals, biotech and auto sectors. Pharmaceuticals proceedings. Very strong US practice.

Development potential

For the litigation team to operate on a par with the market leaders, JD will have to expand its Düsseldorf office and visibility in mobile communications suits considerably. This is also important with the UPC in mind. The Düsseldorf, Paris and London offices could be more visible in this respect.

Recommended individuals

Gerd Jaekel, Dr. Christian Paul; patent attorneys: Dr. Martin Weber, Dr. Dorothée Weber-Bruls.

Team

14 patent attorneys, 3 lawyers

Practice

All-round IP activity with a focus on technical protection rights. Prosecution practice with broad technical expertise. Opposition and nullity suits and infringement proceedings. Licensing contracts, transactions and advice on patent strategies.

Clients

Identix regarding hepatitis C drug; Philips concerning LED lights; Gillette concerning wet razor; Lufthansa Technik regarding aircraft electronics; SMI concerning self-extinguishing cigarette paper; all-round activity for Celera, Celgene, Rational, SMR Automotive, Sunrise Medical, Woco.