JUVE Comment

This Munich IP firm operates an active filing practice with a broad technical spectrum. The patent attorneys also litigate frequently, especially when it comes to electronics patents. They are conducting proceedings for Tridonic, one of the main players in the B.O.S.E consortium, against Chinese competitors concerning white LEDs. Engineering patents also play a central role in the practice, including much activity for the patent attorneys in opposition suits. Mitscherlich is well known for mobile communications patents owing to its intensive work for Huawei, one of the main filers at the EPO. The patent attorneys are currently working with lawyers from Preu Bohlig to defend the mobile communications giant in several infringement proceedings, including nullity suits against the disputed patents. However, Huawei also hires Braun-Dullaeus Pannen Emmerling, another patent attorney firm, for litigation, e.g. as intervener for Daimler in connected cars suits. Mitscherlich has yet to appear in these proceedings. International corporations and numerous German Mittelstand companies from a range of technical sectors feature on the filing practice’s client list. The practice is only less visible when it comes to pharma patents, although prosecution and litigation for biotech companies are increasing. Chemicals is a growing field with Altana and Revlon among new clients. An independent practice has been established for this alongside the pharma and biotech group.

Strengths

Patent prosecution with technical specialty in electronics and mobile communication patents (the latter also litigation).

Recommended individuals

Thomas Körfer, Christian Rupp (“first class, really understands clients”, client; both patent attorneys)

Team

23 patent attorneys, 4 lawyers

Specialties

IP work has a clear focus on technical protection rights: patent prosecution involving chemicals, electronics, medical products, mechanics and IT/software. Opposition and nullity suits. Infringement proceedings predominantly with external lawyers.

Clients

Litigation: Nestlé/Nespresso (claimant) against ECC over coffee capsule machines; Tridonic (claimant) against various competitors over LEDs; regular infringement and nullity claims for Huawei. Prosecution: filing, incl. oppositions for Aerogen, Akzo Nobel, Altana, Bosch, Cargill, Fujitsu, Glycom, Honda, Huawei, Hytera, Nestlé, Sony, Revlon, Rohde & Schwarz, Tridonic, Zumtobel.