JUVE Comment

In patent prosecution, Boehmert is indisputably among the leading firms. It boasts one of the larger headcounts in Europe and some of the highest filing figures. Patents are filed within a broad technical spectrum for a multitude of innovative Mittelstand companies, but like many Munich firms Boehmert also boasts a strong track record for international corporates like Huawei, Intel and LG. Boehmert actively litigates with mixed teams, primarily for Mittelstand clients. The firm is currently not visible in the major mobile communications battles, although it files many patents for these clients. Visibility is much stronger in pharmaceuticals litigation. The patent attorneys are considered experienced in litigation, but the team of lawyers too small compared to the market leaders.

European strategy

With mixed teams in Munich and Paris the firm is well positioned for the UPC. B&B deliberately focuses its litigation team in Munich, while direct competitors like Vossius are stepping up their Düsseldorf presence. After all, the way to a top position in infringement cases in Germany is through a strong visibility here. Boehmert is therefore at risk of falling behind. Depending on how the Brexit negotiations go, a London presence could also be interesting for a firm like B&B with its strong pharmaceuticals specialty.

Strengths

Patent prosecution with renowned technical specialties in electronics, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and biotech. Litigation related to pharmaceuticals.

Recommended individuals

Prof. Dr. Heinz Goddar, Dr. Jan Krauss, Christian Appelt, Dr. Thomas Bittner (“first-class negotiating tactics”, client), Dr. Markus Engelhard (all patent attorneys).

Team

62 patent attorneys, 6 lawyers

Practice

All-round IP activity, incl. trademarks and unfair competition and copyrights (media). Patent law centers on patent prosecution: large filing practice with broad technical expertise; opposition and nullity suits and infringement proceedings. Licences, R&D contracts and transaction advice.

Clients

Litigation: Aeritas regarding mobile check-in; Solvay regarding biodiesel production; 3S Smart Software Solutions concerning control software; Sprick concerning packaging dispenser; Joyetech regarding e-cigarettes; JVC Kenwood concerning DVDs. Prosecution: filing and opposition suits for AiCuris, Huawei, Intel, Immatics, Microsoft, LG, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Rittal, Tata Consultancy (some public knowledge).