JUVE Comment

This large and renowned patent litigation team is praised by competitors for its expertise in pharmaceuticals proceedings. TW is also increasingly visible in mobile communications litigation for Asus and ZTE, but lost two salary partners active in mobile communications suits in Düsseldorf. The team could absorb this loss on the whole thanks to its strong headcount, but it was a blow for the Düsseldorf team, which was already too small. Through its traditionally strong pharmaceuticals specialty, TW made headway in the mechanics, electronics and auto sectors, with new clients like Valeo. In mobile communications, a growing visibility in Asia could bear further fruit. Having focused before now on China and Japan, TW has now widened activity to Korea and Taiwan with advice to notable companies.

Strengths

Litigation related to pharmaceuticals and telecoms. Good contacts in China and Japan.

European strategy

In Germany, TW is well positioned in Munich for patents. The firm appointed a partner at its strong London office. TW has teams at other key UPC locations, like Paris and Amsterdam, but their visibility could be stronger. The traditionally strong Asian practice should be an asset for the UPC.

Recommended individuals

Dr. Sabine Rojahn, Dr. Michael Samer, Christoph de Coster, Dr. Christian Lederer, Dr. Dietrich Kamlah, Dr. Gisbert Hohagen (“thorough and unpretentious”, competitor).

Team

7 equity partners, 5 salary partners, 6 associates, 1 of counsel

Partner moves

Dr. Christof Höhne (to EIP), Dr. Matthias Hülsewig (to Preu Bohlig & Partner).

Practice

All-round activity in IP. In patents, activity focuses on infringement proceedings. Very close cooperation with the European patents team and international life science practice. Also licensing and cooperation contracts. [Trademarks and unfair competition[[href][1377]]].

Clients

Litigation: frequent activity for Mylan, Nichia, Pfizer/Hospira, Valeo; Hexal/Sandoz against Eli Lilly regarding pemetrexed and against Gilead regarding tenofovir; Shionogi against Merck & Co. regarding HIV drug; ZTE against Sisvel, Asus against Philips (both concerning mobile communications); Metatron against VW regarding gas injection system; Agfa against Dupont regarding printing plates.