JUVE Comment

Not only is this Munich patent attorney firm one of the major German filing practices with a very international approach, but it is also well positioned for litigation in the mobile communications sector. Katérle is active for LG in two proceedings against NPEs Fipa and Conversant. The firm also conducts much litigation involving bicycle components for regular client Sram. The pharmaceuticals and biotech team is not present in so many infringement cases before the EPO, but in opposition and nullity suits. The basis for this is extensive prosecution work for the sector, incl. a major originator. W&W also nurtures close ties in the auto supply industry, which could, in combination with its mobile communications know-how, provide a good starting point for connected cars. But for now the firm is fighting over traditional auto components for Valeo and ZF TRW.

Strengths

Patent prosecution with technical expertise in mechanics, electronics and biotech. Plant variety protection. Mobile communications litigation.

Recommended individuals

Bernhard Thum, Axel Katérle, Dr. Axel von Hellfeld, Dr. Hendrik Wichmann (all patent attorneys).

Team

31 patent attorneys

Practice

All-round IP activity with trademarks and unfair competition through its own lawyers. Patent prosecution with a broad technical spectrum. Nullity and opposition suits, infringement proceedings, generally with external litigators.

Clients

Litigation: LG against Fipa and Conversant regarding mobile communications; Novozymes against DSM regarding lactose-free milk; Sram against Shimano concerning bicycle technology; Valeo and ZF TRW regarding car spare parts. Prosecution: filing and opposition suits for Airbus, Colgate-Palmolive, Fanuc, LG, Olympus, Polymedicure, Scania, Stryker, ZF TRW.