JUVE Comment

This patent attorney firm is renowned for its litigation in infringement proceedings over pharma and biosimilar patents. Wittkopp, for example, represented Mylan recently in an economically significant case against Teva concerning a multiple sclerosis medicine. Furthermore, his litigation for core clients Stada/Aliud in the suit against MSD over a cholesterol-lowering drug was a remarkable success. In these proceedings H&W’s chemists and biochemists regularly work with lawyers from large firms such as Bird & Bird and Taylor Wessing. In comparison to competitors, this small Hamburg boutique focuses more on infringement cases and proceedings before the EPO. Expanding its relatively scant filing work is not on the firm’s agenda.

Strengths

Litigation in oppositions and infringement cases for generics manufacturers.

European strategy

Compared to rivals of a similar size, this small and flexible patent attorney outfit is well positioned for the UPC, as it already boasts extensive litigation experience. H&W is also an attractive cooperation partner thanks to its specialty in chemistry and pharmaceutical patents, particularly for firms that specialise in advising generics manufacturers and have no interest in establishing their own prosecution practice.

Recommended individuals

Alexander Wittkopp

Team

6 patent attorneys

Specialties

Pharma and biosimilar patents

Clients

Litigation: Mylan against Teva over MS drug; Stada/Aliud against MSD over cholesterol-lowering drug (public knowledge). Prosecution: filing and oppositions for Alfred E. Tiefenbacher.