Arnold Ruess takes trophy for UPC Firm of the Year

A year ago, JUVE Patent announced the winner of the first ever JUVE Patent Award for UPC litigation, UK-based firm Powell Gilbert. The trophy made a lengthy journey to London, reaching Powell Gilbert by airmail after complicated Brexit-related customs checks.

This year, the trophy only had a short trip up the Rhine from Cologne to neighbouring Düsseldorf, as JUVE Patent journalists Christina Schulze and Konstanze Richter handed the coveted trophy to this year’s winner, Arnold Ruess.

Breaking new ground

Partners Bernhard Arnold, Marina Wehler, Cordula Schumacher, and Peter Ruess, along with a team of associates were present at the firm’s headquarters on Düsseldorf’s prestigious Königsallee to receive the trophy. Not wanting to miss the festivities, part of the team dialled in from Thailand, where they are attending fellow IP associate Chanisar Bangkomnet’s wedding.

JUVE Patent journalist Konstanze Richter congratulates the Arnold Ruess team on winning the award ©JUVE Patent

While handing over the trophy, JUVE Patent journalist paid tribute to the team, commending its achievements over the past year.

Arnold Ruess’s strategy of independence at the UPC has proven successful. The Düsseldorf firm has established a strong presence at the European court, particularly in mobile communications and streaming technology where it is now one of the most influential players. Its innovative strategies, including successfully landing an anti-interim-licence injunction for InterDigital in its battle with Amazon, have impressed the market and broken new ground in UPC litigation.

Furthermore, JUVE Patent editors praised Arnold Ruess for successfully transferring long-standing SEP clients to the UPC and developing internal talent. The firm’s relationship with Nokia has led to high-profile UPC cases, including against Paramount and Warner Brothers. Additionally, Arnold Ruess has also attracted new big-name clients like Asus for FRAND-related disputes against Xiaomi and Oppo.

This year’s glass trophy for UPC Firm of the Year takes it rightful place in the Arnold Ruess headquarters ©JUVE Patent

Arnold Ruess’ focus on developing junior lawyers has resulted in promotions and emerging UPC specialists. While mobile and streaming technology remain core, the firm is expanding its UPC expertise into medical technology, showcasing its ability to leverage its UPC expertise across industries. Read the full analysis here.

German boutique comes top

The winner was selected from four nominees by a three-person jury. Arnold Ruess topped the list of strong international candidates, including mixed UK firm Carpmaels & Ransford, international firm Clifford Chance and German IP boutique Eisenführ Spießer.

All are represented in the JUVE Patent UPC ranking, published yesterday. The ranking features patent law firms showing particularly dynamic and strategically successful development at the European court.

JUVE Patent will present the UPC Award on an annual basis. The focus lies on European patent firms with UPC representatives. Find more information about JUVE Patent’s research criteria here.