JUVE Comment

With its team of patent attorneys, this Düsseldorf IP boutique is among the leading firms and is seeing activity increase, in both the litigation and filing practices. The firm is strong in mobile communications patents, esp. when it comes to litigation for NPEs like regular client France Brevet, for whom it wrapped up a major series of proceedings. The boutique could profit from the rush on German courts by these clients, also in the UPC. But in its work in the patent battle between Nokia and Apple, C&F positioned itself prominently on the industry side. The firm also raised its visibility in pharmaceuticals proceedings, with work for Bayer Pharma, and in chemicals patents, e.g. for Henkel. The long-term development of a Munich office could be an important strategic step; patent attorneys are currently being developed internally for this.

Strengths

Litigation related to software, electronics and mobile communications.

European strategy

With its strong ties to NPEs the firm could benefit from the UPC launch, which this type of client is yearning for. The patent attorneys work in close cooperation with individual law firms and are thus well prepared. Unlike many of its competitors, C&F foregoes a mixed approach and having its own lawyers for patents.

Recommended individuals

Gottfried Schüll, Dr. Arwed Burrichter, Dr. Ralph Minderop (all patent attorneys).

Team

22 patent attorneys

Practice

All-round activity in IP incl. trademarks and unfair competition. Strong focus on patent prosecution with a broad technical spectrum. Nullity and opposition suits and infringement proceedings.

Clients

Bel Duse regarding CAT6 network sockets; opposition suits for Genentech and Rovi/Tivo; Bayer Pharma regarding Xarelto; Exelixis regarding Cobimetinib; Henkel concerning dishwasher tablets; UPM concerning special silicone paper; public knowledge: Nokia and KPN regarding mobile communications; filing for Bombardier, Covestro, Deutsche Post, Innogy, Fritz Egger, Lhoist Schmitz Cargobull, SIG, Thyssenkrupp, Vorwerk; US pharmaceuticals company concerning SPC for blockbuster drug.