JUVE Comment

The well-positioned patent team of this global law firm is beginning to make its presence felt in London. Although lacking the big-name clients in telecommunications and pharmaceuticals of its competitors, Baker & McKenzie is nonetheless establishing itself through litigating on consumer products. A team behind recommended IP partner Hiroshi Sheraton has been especially active in the UK High Court and Court of Appeal for major consumer brand L’Oréal against startup Olaplex. L’Oréal remains Baker’s main source of client work, with other divisions collaborating with the patent team to advise on matters such as trademarks, competition law and design rights.

Strengths

Litigation for consumer brands.

European strategy

The European patent practice has a respectable setup for the UPC launch with teams in London and Munich. But none of the offices are market leaders and the planned growth in Paris has yet to materialise.

Recommended individuals

Hiroshi Sheraton

Team

1 partner, 1 senior consultant, 3 associates

Specialties

Patent litigation, prosecution, cross-border prosecution, EPO work.

Clients

Litigation: L’Oréal (claimant) against RN Ventures over skincare devices; Olaplex against L’Oréal (defendant) over hair treatment (both public knowledge).