JUVE Comment

Feldges’ tenacity in building up the small, yet respected patents practice of this international firm is paying off, as young litigator Cepl is increasingly visible from Düsseldorf. The key factor, however, was the team’s activity in a major pharmaceuticals battle for Pfizer regarding Lyrica, at the same time as work for a new mobile communications client in a series of proceedings. The hard-hitting German team is valuable for the European patents group, which strives to play a central role in the European patent system, incl. the UPC system, with its excellently placed patents teams in London and Paris.

Strengths

Litigation related to biotech and pharmaceuticals patents; arbitration.

Development potential

Despite its initial success, the German team’s visibility in mobile communications suits remains low. The firm also needs to raise its headcount to achieve the role it is aiming for in Europe.

Recommended individuals

Dr. Joachim Feldges, Dr. Philipp Cepl.

Team

1 partner, 1 counsel, 3 associates

Practice

Broad IP activity with expertise in technical protection rights. Exclusively opposition and nullity suits and infringement proceedings with a strong specialty in biotech and pharmaceuticals. Also electronics and mechanics. Arbitration, transactions and licensing.

Clients

Pfizer regarding second medical use related to Lyrica; litigation for Hoffmann-La Roche, Lelly (public knowledge), Pan Medical; mobile communications manufacturer concerning Android operating system.