THE FIRM This eight-partner team offers advice in all areas of IP, focusing on international clients and multi-jurisdictional mandates. The firm's global trade mark practice continues to grow, with the German team recently taking over the management of two global trade mark portfolios for prominent international clients. In other matters the team continues to advise The Body Shop on unfair competition issues relating to the design and labelling of its products.
Sources say: "Baker & McKenzie's global reach is a major selling point. The firm has exceptional expertise on the ground all over the world."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients regard Michael Fammler as "an exceptional adviser, who is knowledgeable about developments and IP trends in both Germany and abroad." Rembert Niebel is also valued by market observers, who appreciate his in-depth trade mark expertise, which includes registration, counselling and infringement proceedings. Guenter Pickrahn deals with the team's patent litigation workload. Peers say he "excels in contentious work for global clients."
THE FIRM This boutique advises on all aspects of IP and has a notable European presence thanks to its offices in Munich, Düsseldorf, Paris and Barcelona. The team's client roster is a who's who of global brands such as adidas, BMW and Apple for patents, and Coca-Cola, GlaxoSmithKline and McDonald's for trade marks.
Sources say: "This firm represents our role model relationship. The entire team works as an extension of our company to pre-empt and prevent problems, rather than a lot of other firms that will aimlessly walk the client into conflicts and disadvantageous situations so it can bill you for fixing it later."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients acclaim Johannes Heselberger as a "knowledgeable and always well-prepared lawyer and patent attorney." Of counsel and co-founder of the firm Udo Altenburg is a leading patent attorney, who is praised for his in-depth knowledge of medical devices. Jochen Pagenberg maintains a broad contentious IP practice, with a particular focus on mechanical, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, electronic and software patents. Patent attorney Hans Wegner "presents great arguments in opposition and nullity proceedings, and he offers valuable, succinct advice to the client." Sources hail Peter Hess as "a strong organiser and manager, but also an exceptional patent attorney in his own right." Managing partner Johannes Lang is noted for his patent prosecution expertise, serving important clients such as Essilor and Nintendo. Lang is also qualified as a French patent attorney with experience of the French patent litigation process. Claus Eckhartt is a popular adviser on trade mark issues, particularly amongst international clients, who describe him as "a very reliable, succinct and timely professional." Tilman Müller-Stoy impresses clients, who note: "He is not prone to the exaggerations and drama that many litigators thrive on. He is very professional and to the point, with an understated knowledge of the law and in-depth understanding of our business goals."
THE FIRM Fielding a total of 74 patent attorneys and lawyers, this domestic IP powerhouse boasts one of the largest teams in the market and advises clients on all aspects of IP. The firm has numerous offices throughout Germany and also enjoys an international presence thanks to its outposts in Alicante, Paris and Shanghai. Frequently acknowledged as a leader in patent prosecution, the firm is increasingly visible on major patent litigation cases. The firm's trade mark and unfair competition practice also continues to impress market observers.
Sources say: "A great firm with a diverse IP practice and large number of lawyers."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Heinz Goddar is a market-leading patent attorney with a background in physics. He helps to push the firm's Asian practice, splitting his time between the Munich and Shanghai offices. Fellow physicist Steffen Schmidt is a patent attorney and European patent and trade mark attorney based in the Frankfurt office. Carl-Richard Haarmann is applauded for his contentious IP practice, particularly his patent infringement workload. Sources recommend Berlin-based Axel Nordemann for his in-depth knowledge of trade mark, unfair competition and copyright law.
THE FIRM This magic circle giant fields a nine-partner team, advising clients on a broad range of IP issues, with an emphasis on contentious matters. The team frequently acts for German blue-chips and often co-operates with the firm's global network to assist international clients with multi-jurisdictional litigation matters.
Sources say: "A great firm with strong IP expertise, which is consistent across its international offices."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Düsseldorf-based Frank-Erich Hufnagel is a noted authority for patent litigation. He acts for an enviable stable of clients, including Microsoft, which he recently represented in infringement proceedings before the Mannheim Regional Court. Fellow Düsseldorf partner Andrea Lensing-Kramer is praised by peers as "an experienced IP lawyer and a pleasure to work with." Peter Chrocziel heads the firm's German patent litigation practice. One of his key clients is Nintendo, which he advises on patent issues relating to its Wii and DSi products. According to market observers, Matthias Koch has "an encyclopaedic knowledge of intellectual property."
THE FIRM This full-service firm impresses market observers with its comprehensive IP practice. The five-partner trade mark and unfair competition practice remains amongst the most sought after in the market, acting for prominent clients such as Bosch, Philip Morris and Daimler. The patent team handles a broad range of infringement proceedings, as well as other patent-related services, such as customs actions and freedom-to-operate analyses.
Sources say: "The lawyers leave no room for improvement." "The firm really looks after the talent in its team and is developing excellently from within."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Stuttgart-based Stefan Völker heads the IP team and is a prominent figure in trade mark and unfair competition mandates. Thomas Bopp is well known for his patent litigation prowess and wins notable admiration for his work in the pharmaceutical industry. Andreas Schabenberger is increasingly visible in contentious proceedings, and clients enthuse about his "high level of competence, extremely fast response time, and friendly and accommodating manner."
THE FIRM This Hamburg-based boutique advises clients on all forms of IP, but is best known for its outstanding trade mark and unfair competition practice. The team advises an impressive roster of clients including Ferrero and METRO on various matters, including infringement litigation.
Sources say: "The firm enjoys a long-standing presence in the market, representing major German companies, as well as international clients."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Michael Schaeffer has a wealth of experience in a wide range of IP disciplines and has long been regarded as a market leader in trade mark and unfair competition matters. IP forms one part of Matthias Wolter's broad practice, and he advises clients on international trade marks, copyright and design rights. Karin Sandberg is touted as "the face of the new generation at Harmsen Utescher," and is especially well known in the trade mark field. Rainer Kaase is sought after for his expertise in trade mark and unfair competition matters, adding value with his in-depth knowledge of the pharmaceutical, food and drink and cosmetics industries.
THE FIRM This German IP giant fields over 100 professionals, including patent attorneys, lawyers, engineers and scientists in offices in Munich and London. The firm has long enjoyed the status of a market leader in patent prosecution in Germany, but its full-service offering also encompasses infringement litigation and advice on trade marks. It has professionals trained both in Germany and abroad and has a strong foothold amongst international clients.
Sources say: "The firm's expertise is more in-depth than that of its competitors. It is at the forefront of most technical and electrical developments and is a top-class firm for all types of patent work."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Joseph Taormino is renowned as "a technically gifted patent attorney," who focuses on the fields of biotechnology, food chemistry and pharmaceuticals. Taormino is a partner within the firm's chemistry and biology group, alongside Peter Klusmann. Klusmann has extensive experience of opposition and appeal proceedings before the European and German patent authorities. Fellow chemist Bernd Hansen is an experienced senior figure within the group, who is considered "a strong name for IP."
THE FIRM This firm is universally regarded as the market leader for IP in Germany, and it is one of the few firms with relevant capabilities across Europe, Asia and the USA. The team is often instructed to act on multi-jurisdictional mandates for high-profile global clients.
Sources say: "There is excellent consistency across all Hogan Lovells offices. The lawyers take a very global approach, which ensures that the teams work closely together to provide a top-quality service."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Düsseldorf-based Andreas von Falck is leader of the firm's international IP, media and technology group. Sources consider him "one of the premier players in the market, with unmatched expertise in medical devices and pharmaceuticals." Martin Chakraborty is described as "a technically gifted lawyer" who maintains a broad IP practice. He recently advised HTC in several patent infringement proceedings, as well as border seizure proceedings. Martin Fähndrich is active across a broad range of industries, ranging from the automotive sector to telecoms. He recently represented LM Wind Power in appeal opposition proceedings before the European Patent Office. Hamburg-based Leopold von Gerlach is a specialist for all types of contentious IP work. According to clients he is "a great litigator with excellent knowledge of IP law and procedure. He is precise, insightful and the last person you would want to see on the opposite side in proceedings." Sources laud Hamburg-based trade mark and unfair competition expert Andreas Bothe as "an excellent adviser and an experienced and confident negotiator. He is equally at home on portfolio work and in court - an all-round star." Senior associate Bettina Clefsen continues to impress clients, who describe her as "always approachable, friendly and helpful."
THE FIRM This IP boutique offers advice on utility models, trade marks and designs, although its core competence lies in patent prosecution. Operating from offices in the key locations of Mannheim, Munich, and Düsseldorf, the firm frequently assists in opposition, appeal and nullity proceedings, and it co-operates with external lawyers on patent infringement proceedings.
KEY INDIVIDUALS Raphael Bösl is recognised as the most prominent of the firm's patent attorneys, with expertise in a range of fields including chemistry, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. Günter Isenbruck is a highly respected figure in the market, and brings a wealth of experience to bear for both domestic and international clients.
THE FIRM This firm deals with trade marks, patents and design patents from its headquarters in Munich and from its newly established Düsseldorf office. Recent mandates include representing SRAM Corp and SRAM Deutschland in several high-profile patent disputes.
Sources say: "We always feel we are in good hands and that the firm is a top address for IP in Germany."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Olaf Giebe has "great expertise and a wealth of experience in patent infringement cases. He is able to adjust quickly to the specifics of a case and identify the essential details." Michael Nieder has a broad IP practice, covering patents, trade marks and unfair competition law and a focus on the food and pharmaceuticals sectors. Ralf Hackbarth impresses with his deep knowledge of IP. As one source enthuses, "he is very responsive, always on track and knows the details of all the cases he is handling." Wolfgang Götz "is an exceptional trade mark and unfair competition expert. He is extremely knowledgeable, but at the same time he is personable and nice to work with."
THE FIRM This firm focuses on media, sports law, antitrust, procurement law and all forms of IP. The team notably acted for Zais Group on trade mark and unfair competition matters, including the valuing and management of trade mark portfolios and securitisation of copyrights.
Sources say: "Ambitious, well-organised lawyers producing high-quality work in a timely manner."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Johannes Zindel brings more than 30 years of experience to the table, representing clients in all types of contentious IP matters. He recently represented Tenneco Group in patent invalidity proceedings, as well as infringement litigation. A favourite amongst clients from the media and entertainment sector, Piet Bubenzer "strikes a good balance between in-depth analysis of the law and practical, commercial solutions," say sources. Thomas Körber is praised as "a very committed and creative lawyer with profound knowledge of IP law and good business sense."
THE FIRM Founded over a century ago, this firm specialises in the prosecution of IP rights, particularly patents, trade marks, industrial designs and utility models. The firm serves both domestic and international clients and has considerable European coverage, with offices in Germany, Norway, Spain and the UK.
Sources say: "Amongst the market leaders for patent prosecution."
KEY INDIVIDUALS German and European patent and trade mark attorney Eugen Popp is sought after for his knowledge of mechanics, engineering and engine design.
THE FIRM This firm offers a broad range of legal, audit and tax services to businesses. One area of focus is IP, where it enjoys a stellar reputation for contentious work, particularly patent infringement litigation. The team acts from a number of German offices, each with its own IP expert.
Sources say: "A strong culture of litigation excellence goes through the whole firm." "The lawyers are very technically minded and provide great client service."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Peter Kather "is widely recommended as a market-leading patent litigator in Germany and it is no surprise why: he inspires faith with his knowledge and confidence." Kather is a trusted adviser to prominent clients, such as Canon, Audi and Porsche. Stephan Gruber continues to advise key client Siemens on a range of issues, as well as representing it in patent infringement proceedings. Clients highlight his depth of knowledge and technical skill. Trade mark specialist Detlef von Schultz heads the firm's Hamburg office. His recent mandates include representing Swatch Group in several infringement proceedings.
THE FIRM This Düsseldorf-based IP boutique places a strong emphasis on contentious work. It looks after an impressive stable of domestic and international clients, such as Deutsche Telekom.
Sources say: "A strong boutique of high-quality lawyers. Always a popular choice for patent litigation."
KEY INDIVIDUALS Known for his patent litigation skill, Klaus Haft earns praise for his "preparation and excellent litigation style." He acts alongside Kay Kasper in representing key client Nokia in infringement litigation against Apple. Kasper has a focus on telecommunications, IT, mechanics, automotive and medical devices. Thomas Reimann is universally acknowledged as a market-leading patent litigator. He represents clients in patent infringement litigation, as well as in opposition and nullity proceedings. Christian Osterrieth is a highly sought-after patent litigator, who has been advising clients exclusively on IP issues for more than 25 years. Peers laud "the exceptional litigation prowess" of Martin Köhler, particularly in the fields of electronics, engineering, pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
THE FIRM This three-partner team deals with all forms of IP, but there is a clear focus on providing a comprehensive service relating to trade marks, from registration and infringement proceedings to licensing agreements. The team has expertise in a wide range of industries, including food and beverage, cosmetics, aviation, banking and medtech.
Sources say: "The team has significant IP expertise and provides practical advice which is easily comprehensible." "Strong international advice capabilities."
KEY INDIVIDUALS According to clients, Reinhart Lange is a "true expert in the area of trade marks. He is aware of the commercial realities of a client's business and provides decisive advice." Observers also laud Gesine Hild as "a very approachable lawyer, who provides us with pragmatic guidance, rather than sitting on the fence."
Joachim Feldges of Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP remains one of the most sought-after patent litigators in Germany. His peers acknowledge his standing in the market, stating:
"There is simply no doubting his patent litigation expertise." His Hamburg-based colleague
Alexandra von Bismarck specialises in trade mark and design law. One of her key clients is the WABCO group, which she advises EU-wide in collaboration with lawyers from the firm's various European offices. Sole practitioner
Ingeborg Voelker is highly regarded for her patent prosecution expertise, particularly in the fields of chemistry and biotechnology. Patent litigator
Wolfgang Kellenter of Hengeler Mueller specialises in contentious IP matters and is known for his leading role in a long-running and highly publicised series of patent infringement cases for IPCom.
Jens Matthes of Linklaters heads the German IP team. He is highly sought after for his trade mark and unfair competition expertise, and clients praise his
"swift and effective service." German and European patent attorney
Malte Köllner of Köllner & Partner is identified by sources for building up a strong patent prosecution practice. Senior associate
Christian Kau joined DLA Piper UK LLP in January 2011 and has quickly established himself as an excellent patent litigator with particular expertise in the telecommunications sector. Hamburg-based patent attorney
Christof Keussen of Glawe Delfs Moll is recognised for his expertise in the areas of chemistry, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Patent litigator
Peter Meyer of Simmons & Simmons LLP is a popular choice for clients in the TMT sector.
Mark Oppermann of Oppermann & Oppermann is a highly regarded patent attorney, whose
"mind goes at full speed all the time. He always has great ideas and concepts, and he comes up with alternative courses of action if plan A goes wrong." Constantin Rehaag of Salans
"combines legal expertise with practical considerations," making him a popular trade mark and unfair competition adviser.
Monika Wenz of Siebeke Lange Wilbert is a seasoned practitioner, recognised for her expertise in domestic and international trade mark law. Düsseldorf-based
Anton Horn of Heuking Kühn Lüer Wojtek is sought after for his patent litigation skills. Horn recently represented Ricon in a series of patent infringement disputes with competitors, relating to wheelchair lifts.
Hosea Haag recently left Heisse Kursawe Eversheds to co-found AMPERSAND Rechtsanwälte LLP. He is popular amongst his clients, who consider him to be
"very intelligent, thoughtful and precise." Haag's recent work includes representing Vestel in multiple patent litigation cases relating to TV display and DVD technology. Market observers laud patent attorney
Jörg Nunnenkamp of Andrejewski Honke as
"a standout physicist who deserves recognition." Clients endorse
Thomas Kudlek of Kudlek & Grunert Patentanwälte for his
"great technical knowledge and patience with clients. He is happy to research a question he has no answers for and produces results extremely quickly."