JUVE Comment

After spinning off from Preu Bohlig at the beginning of the year, this Düsseldorf IP boutique, which is highly recommended for patent litigation, was exceptionally visible in two major proceedings involving SEPs for mobile communications companies Ericsson and Vodafone. KA parted ways with Preu Bohlig because of different ideas about the firm’s future strategic direction and immediately brought in a counsel experienced in mobile communications suits from Bird & Bird to cope with the extremely high utilization rate. The firm also litigated for a multitude of industrial clients from a range of sectors. In terms of the possible UPC launch, the team could make an interesting partner for other European boutiques. The firm nurtures close connections with some European litigation firms with similar setups, though its German competitors are vying for their attention. Cooperation partners are few and far between for German boutiques, and too much hesitation could quickly become a disadvantage.

Strengths

Litigation, esp. mobile communications.

Recommended individuals

Dr. Peter Kather (“outstanding, both in litigation and legal briefs”, competitor), Dr. Christof Augenstein.

Team

5 partners, 3 associates

Practice

Exclusively litigation and advice in IP with a clear focus on patents.

Clients

Ericsson against Apple; Vodafone against Saint Lawrence (both regarding mobile communications); Agraferm concerning biogas plants; B & F Baumaschinen regarding product counterfeits; Manroland regarding printing machines; MAN Trucks & Bus against individual inventor concerning truck seats.