Arnold Ruess’s strategy has paid off: As one of Germany’s most successful independent IP boutiques, the Düsseldorf firm deliberately eschewed international alliances, instead relying on its own strengths to establish a formidable presence at the UPC. The team now ranks among the most influential players in UPC litigation, particularly in mobile communications and related technologies such as streaming, demonstrating that independence and focus can rival global networks.
A standout example is Arnold Ruess’s recent victory for InterDigital in the multi-jurisdictional dispute against Amazon over streaming technology. The team led by Cordula Schumacher and Arno Riße impressed the market with innovative strategies, including an anti-interim-licence injunction successfully enforced before both the UPC and Munich Regional Court – an approach that broke new ground in relation to parallel UK proceedings.
The boutique’s reputation is further bolstered by its long-standing relationship with Nokia, which entrusted Arnold Ruess with several UPC cases from the outset. The team currently represents the Finnish network giant in multiple proceedings at the UPC against US media groups Paramount and Warner Brothers. Building on this foundation, the firm has attracted numerous high-profile clients, including Asus, which retained Arnold Ruess for FRAND-related disputes against Xiaomi and Oppo, cementing the firm’s strong position in SEP litigation at the European court.
To handle multiple high-profile cases concurrently, Arnold Ruess does not solely rely on its partners’ outstanding reputations. The firm excels at developing talent from within its ranks to senior positions. Junior lawyers are given significant responsibility early on, including in UPC matters. This approach is bearing fruit: Marina Wehler, promoted to partner in 2024, now leads the Asus case. Counsel Lisa Rieth and Tim Smentkowski are also gaining recognition in the market, signalling the emergence of a new generation of UPC specialists at the firm.
Whilst mobile and streaming technology remain core sectors, Arnold Ruess is increasingly winning UPC instructions in medical technology, such as for Fisher & Paykel and Angelign, showcasing its ability to leverage its UPC expertise across industries.