JUVE Comment

This mixed IP firm is established in Munich with a broad prosecution practice. The patent attorneys also boast a good reputation in disputes. While the pharmaceuticals and biotechnology practice puts in a strong appearance at the EPO for opposition suits and appeal proceedings, the mechanics team is very active in nullity suits and infringement proceedings for the auto industry. Traditional litigation between auto parts suppliers predominates. The team has yet to appear in the connected cars suits, but given its excellent sector ties this should just be a matter of time. Litigation practice growth suffered a setback with the move of partner Neels to Ampersand. Other mixed firms like Meissner Bolte or Vossius show a more united front with mixed teams of patent attorneys and lawyers experienced in litigation. The patent attorney team brought in associate laterals from other firms.

Strengths

Pharmaceuticals patents and litigation predominantly for the auto sector.

Recommended individuals

Dr. Mathias Ricker, Michael Wallinger (both patent attorneys).

Team

22 patent attorneys, 4 lawyers

Partner moves

Philipp Neels (to Ampersand).

Practice

IP firm with a strong focus on patents. Much litigation, licences, IP transactions and IP management. Midsized filing practice with broad technical expertise.

Clients

Litigation: AVL, BMW, C&E Fein/Robert Bosch, Eastman, Eppendorf, Kuka, MTU Aero Engines, Macronix. Prosecution: filing and opposition suits for BMW, Eastman, Eppendorf, hte, Kuka, Merz and MTU; filing for Archroma, Merck. Opposition suits for Borregaard, LuK.