JUVE Comment

This small IP boutique occupies a niche as a flexible patent litigation specialist on the side of NPEs and innovative Mittelstand companies. By bringing in Neels as a second patent partner, the firm is taking the next step towards establishing a broader and harder-hitting team. The new partner conducts infringement proceedings for MTU Aero Engines, thus reinforcing the firm’s core Mittelstand client base. In infringement proceedings the firm litigated for glasses manufacturer Clic Googles. But Ampersand is also well positioned on the side of NPEs. Haag litigated for Unwired Planet and Munitech again, and now Conversant, in major series of proceedings.

Strengths

Litigation for NPEs regarding mobile communications.

European strategy

The nationally independent litigation boutique is well versed in operating in mixed teams from various firms thanks to its litigation for NPEs in major proceedings. It is thus relatively independent of conflicts of interest and could continue to be the first choice for NPEs at the UPC. These clients are expected to use the new court intensively.

Recommended individuals

Hosea Haag (“experienced and smart litigator”; competitor).

Team

2 partners, 1 associate

Partner moves

Philipp Neels (from Wallinger Ricker Schlotter Tostmann).

Practice

Litigation firm with interfaces to pharmaceuticals advertising law and unfair competition as well as trademarks and technical protection rights.

Clients

Litigation: ongoing for Vestel; Conversant against ZTE, Huawei and LG; Unwired Planet against HTC and Huawei; Munitech against Vodafone, Telekom, O2/Telefónica; Lux Lighting against Amazon (all regarding mobile communications); Clic Googles regarding glasses technology; MTU Aero Engines concerning milling machines; IDnow against WebID Solutions regarding online identification (public knowledge).