Bardehle Pagenberg is a full service IP firm with offices across Europe, allowing it to handle multi-jurisdictional infringement and other patent proceedings. Clients come from a variety of industries, including mechanical engineering, medical devices, automotive, telecoms, software and electronics. Johannes Lang conducts international patent litigation, nullity, opposition and appeal proceeding across Germany and Europe, often handling cases that require parallel US litigation. Christof Karl advises clients on both litigation and prosecution matters in the computer hard- and software sectors, as well as assisting with all aspects of patent-related competition law, while Joachim Mader focuses on patent invalidity, opposition and appeal processes before the European Patent Office. Other key names to note are Tobias Kaufmann and Georg Anetsberger.
Patent prosecution in Germany
Bardehle Pagenberg
Praxisleiter:
Johannes Lang; Christof Karl; Joachim Mader; Tobias Kaufmann; Georg Anetsberger
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Martin Hohgardt; Niels Malkomes; Christian Haupt; Axel Berger; Benjamin Ruckert; Patrick Daum; Patrick Heckeler; Nikolaus Buchheim; Johannes Moller; Max Vieweg
Referenzen
‚The team at Bardehle are market-leaders in this space showing significant strength, depth and breadth. They are masters in providing a top level of service to clients, from pragmatic board-level strategic advice driven from a position of significant experience, down to the more granular decisions on specific cases in litigation.‘
‚There is a great deal of strength on the Bardehle team at every level, and all elements of client work are covered with expertise and competence. Being at the forefront of the UPC, Bardehle is in a very strong position to advise clients on UPC activity and strategy.‘
‘Georg Anetsberger is a master in this area, together with Nikolaus Buchheim.’
‚The team at Bardhele is extremely capable of blending optimal drafting and prosecution advice with litigation and opposition background and experience to create value-add portfolios. They also excel in risk assessments and litigation preparation both from an offensive and defensive perspective.‘
‚We work extensively with Christof Karl and his team, with special mention to Max Vieweg his excellence in technical analysis and legal advisory skills.‘
‚Very skilled, genuinely professional and nice organisation. Everyone is responsible for the work we asked them to do. There is always a continuity in the work to make it easy for the clients to secure their portfolio, and each bit of work from juniors is supervised by seniors, make it more secure for the clients.‘
Kernmandanten
4web Medical
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company
adidas
AIQ
Apple
Aptiv
Ascom
ATS
Bridgestone
Carl Zeiss AG
Carl Zeiss SMT
CereGate
Cloudbase Solution
Cognex
Dell
Dropbox
Eissmann Automotive Deutschland
EJOT
Copeland
Fotona
Gerresheimer Regensburg
Harvard College
Hyster-Yale group
IVIS
Jaguar Land Rover
Japan Tobacco International
Johnson Matthey
Kronospan Group
Livinguard Technologies
Melexis
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Molabo
Nemotec
Nintendo
Occhio
Qualcomm
SHL Medical
Siga
Signode
Sony
TomTom
Toyota Industries
Virtek
Wago Kontakttechnik
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented TomTom in prosecution proceedings for new patent applications, including drafting new applications.
- Advised Aptiv on an exclusive and comprehensive basis on all matters relating to European, German and international patent applications in the automotive sector.
- Advised adidas AG on an exclusive and comprehensive basis on all matters relating to European, German and international patent applications in the fields of sports and materials engineering.
Cohausz & Florack
Cohausz & Florack handles patent litigation cases concerning the defence and enforcement of intellectual property rights before the Federal Supreme Court and the UPC. The team integrates litigation strategy and patent prosecution, assesses patentability and is experienced in standard essential patents. Natalie Kirchhofer brings expertise in supplementary protection certificates, also handling EPO opposition and nullity proceedings. Jochen Kapfenberger advises national and international companies on the establishment and development of their IP portfolios in relation to process engineering and general mechanical engineering, while Arwed Burrichter advises on chemistry and life sciences industry matters. Andreas Thielmann retired at the end of 2024.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Arwed Burrichter; Gottfried Schull; Natalie Kirchhofer; Christoph Walke; Mathias Karlhuber; Arnd Ziebell; Jochen Kapenberger; Philipe Walter; Matthias Waters; Romina Kuhnle; Tobias Hoheisel; Margarete Rittstieg; Hendrik Bücker
Referenzen
‘Cohausz & Florack’s patent practitioner team is exceptional in their legal expertise. At the same time, the practice is client-centric and adapts to client’s needs. We only work with excellent IP firms, but C&F stands out.’
‚Natalie Kirchhofer is definitely the legal star of the team and has to date never failed us in oral proceedings at the opposition divisions or Boards of Appeal of the European Patent Office.‘
‚Margarete Rittstieg is an exceptional associate that has supported us with excellent preparation and representation in various opposition proceedings at the European Patent Office. She is exceptionally well prepared and thorough, no matter whether she is drafting patent applications, oppositions or appeals.‘
Kernmandanten
Deutsche Post DHL
LG Energy Solution
Sharp
Otto Junker
Elanco
ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe AG
Viega Technology
bio-tec Biologische Naturverpackungen
DVS INNOVATION
FOGTEC Brandschutz
Zhejiang Aiko Solar Energy Technology
innogy SE
Schmitz Cargobull AG
SIG Combibloc
Viega Technology
Vorwerk
Carl Zeiss
Essity
Baosteel Tailored Blanks GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Supported Elanco, Inc. on its European patent and trade mark prosecution practice.
- Managed the worldwide patent portfolio and provided strategic advice to ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe AG.
- Advised Zhejiang Aiko Solar Energy Technology on the majority of its European patent applications.
Eisenführ Speiser
Eisenführ Speiser handles international patent litigation campaigns for major national and international corporations in the fields of mobile communication and audio coding, and the team also advises on the enforcement of Unitary Parents and European Parents before the UPC. Lars Birken is involved in the judicial and extrajudicial enforcement of technology IP rights and in patent prosecutions for mechanical engineering, medical technology, and AI products. Fabian Fegers advises start-ups and venture capitalists, while Stefan Wiethoff drafts, prosecutes and defends German, European and international patents. Holger Veenhuis covers all areas of IP rights. The offering of the team was recently expanded by Martin Nohlen and Andre Guder, who joined the team in January 2025 from Uexküll & Stolberg.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Lars Birken; Fabian Fegers; Stefan Wiethoff; Holger Veenhuis; Martin Nohlen; André Guder
Referenzen
‚Eisenführ Speiser’s team has been an invaluable partner. Their unique strength lies in combining deep technical expertise with strategic guidance tailored to the fast-moving and highly competitive medtech industry. We have worked with them on multiple patent filings, with several successfully granted, and continue to rely on them for freedom-to-operate analyses and IP portfolio management.‘
‚What truly sets them apart is their ability to understand both the technical complexity of our innovations and the commercial implications of IP strategy.‘
‚The team is responsive, detail-oriented and efficient. Their communication is always clear and they are proactive in identifying opportunities and risks.‘
Kernmandanten
Koninklijke Philips N.V.
SONY Computer Entertainment America Inc.
IHP Innovations for High Performance Microelectronics/Leibniz-Institut für innovative Mikroelektronik
Symrise AG
BASF SE
ALLOS Semiconductors AG
Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
Panasonic
ZF Friedrichshafen AG
Hoya Surgical Optics GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Coordinated filing activities, including oppositions, before various patent offices for ZF Friedrichshafen AG.
- Represented Koninklijke Philips in various appeal and opposition proceedings before the EPO.
- Oversaw filing activities, including oppositions, before various patent offices for Panasonic.
Grünecker
Grünecker is a boutique IP firm with a team specialising in a diverse range of technical fields, allowing them to cover prosecution and litigation of patents and trade marks across a variety of sectors. Alongside this, the team advises on opposition proceedings and appeals at the European Patent Office. André Nickel has experience in complex opposition proceedings for software, IT, AI and consumer electronics, while Olivia Nemethova advises on patent prosecution and infringement proceedings across electrical engineering and IT. Reinhard Knauer specialises in software and IT patents and assists with the acquisition, defence and enforcement of Standard Essential Patents, and Thomas Kronberger focuses exclusively on physics, mechanical and electrical engineering and computer-implemented inventions.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
André Nickel; Olivia Nemethova; Reinhard Knauer; Thomas Kronberger; Jens Koch; Steven Zeman; Moritz Hoffe; Markus Grammel; Gero Maatz-Hansen; Felix Kahr
Referenzen
‚Their strength lies not only in meticulous patent drafting, but also in their strategic foresight. They actively support our business by identifying product risks and analysing patent implications for potential litigation, ensuring our filings are robust from the start.‘
‚The patent prosecution team at Grünecker is outstanding. They combine deep technical expertise with strategic insight into patent office practices across Europe and beyond. The attorneys are not only precise and efficient in drafting and prosecution, but also bring commercial awareness and foresight to portfolio development.‘
‚Their advice is always clear, practical and tailored to our business needs. Grünecker stands out for its consistently high-quality work, timely communication and ability to manage complex global filings seamlessly.‘
Kernmandanten
BMC Medical Co., Ltd.
Fuji Corp.
GE Aviation
Hytera Communications Corporation Ltd.
Panasonic
Lenovo
Microsoft
Agilent Technologies Inc.
Philip Morris Products S.A.
Rivian
Roche Diabetes Care
Samsung Electronics
TE Connectivity
Broadcom Inc.
Nvidia
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised Broadcom in the context of European and German patent proceedings, including opposition and appeal proceedings.
- Handled several German and European patent cases for Microsoft, including opposition and appeal proceedings.
- Drafted patent applications and provided ongoing patent portfolio management to Philip Morris Products S.A. in the fields of production technology, products, software, communication, control and electrical engineering and chemistry.
Hoffmann Eitle
Hoffmann Eitle has offices across multiple European cities, allowing it to handle complex patent prosecutions and portfolios. The team is experienced in the chemistry, biotechnology, mechanical and electrical engineering and IT fields. The practice expanded its team and offering as a result of its merger with Hoffmann Eitle in February 2025, further broadening its technical specialism. Morten Garberg specialises in chemistry, while James Ogle, Dorothea von Renesse, and Leonard Werner-Jones focus on biotechnology matters.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Morten Garberg; Klemens Stratmann; Nadja Muncke; James Ogle; Claudia Roth; Gregor König; Dorothea von Renesse; Leonard Werner-Jones; Christopher Furlong; Georg Siegert
Referenzen
‚Hoffmann Eitle stands out for its exceptional availability and deep client integration, operating less like an external service provider and more like an in-house legal partner. Their team is consistently accessible, responsive and proactive, making us feel as though we have a dedicated IP expert embedded within our organisation.‘
‚The individuals we work with have a deep commitment to always being there, which sets them apart in an industry where accessibility and personalised attention are not a given.‘
‚The team are meticulous and forward-thinking, combining deep knowledge of patent law with a sharp understanding of evolving regulations and case law. Precision is at the core of their work, from drafting airtight claims to navigating prosecutions with clarity and purpose.‘
Kernmandanten
Ablynx
Moderna
Fujifilm
Toshiba
AstraZeneca
Allergan
Regeneron
DexCom
Mitsubishi Electric
Nikon
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised on Astellas’ Mirabegron use patent complaint filed by ratiopharm, which was dismissed in second instance proceedings before the Federal Court of Justice.
Vossius & Partner
With extensive expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, biology and biotechnology, the team at Vossius & Partner assists its clients in the customisation of patent prosecution strategies. The practice advises companies from start-ups to multinational, and has extended its offering with expertise in food and green technology patents. Jürgen Meier conducts prosecution and litigation proceedings concerning antibody technology, fermentation technology and microbiology, while Hans-Rainer Jaenichen specialises in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, and Raphael Salzer is experienced in mechanical and medical engineering. Elard Schenck Zu Schweinsberg focuses on engineering, automotive, material sciences, medical technology and physics patents.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Elard Schneck Zu Schweinsberg; Jürgen Meier; Arnold Asmussen; Natalia Berryman; Dirk Harmsen; Hans-Rainer Jaenichen; Philipp Marchand; Raphael Salzer
Referenzen
‚Individual attorneys provide quality products.’
‘Super smart and cutting edge in terms of their knowledge of the law. Passionate and involved. Offer creative solutions.’
‚They are extremely knowledgeable and responsive. In particular, we hired them for handling a complex SPC prosecution matter and they proposed very valuable solutions.‘
Kernmandanten
3M/Solventum Corporation
Boston Scientific Corporation
CRISPR Therapeutics
Echo Pharmaceuticals
F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG
Hitachi Energy
Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.
IMC Group
Max-Planck-Gesellschaft
Newron Pharmaceuticals S.p.A.
NIO Inc.
Nippon Steel Corporation
ResMed
Roche Group
Sartorius
Sumitomo Chemical Corporation
Suntory
ZTE Corporation
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised 3M Company and its spinoff Solventum Corporation on EP, DE and PCT filing activities.
- Assisted the IMC Group with drafting, prosecution, opposition and infringement proceedings.
- Represented the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science in various patent prosecution proceedings.
Boehmert & Boehmert
Boehmert & Boehmert handles IP matters across natural and engineering sciences for multinational companies, with a strong client base in the USA and Asia. The practice has national and international offices, allowing it to tackle multi-jurisdictional cases for its clients. Markus Engelhard obtains and enforces IP rights for therapeutic biomolecules and active pharmaceutical ingredients, while Daniel Herrmann assists clients with building and defending their patent and utility model portfolios, with a particular focus on computer-implemented inventions and also medical technology. Martin Erbacher specialises in numerous fields of chemistry and Karl Heinz-Metten has expertise in engineering plastics and catalysts.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Christoph Angerhausen; Christian W. Appelt; Heinz Goddar; Markus Engelhard; Eva Liesegang; Uwe Manasse; Karl-Heinz Metten; Volker Scholz; Michael Hartig; Steffen Schmidt; Andreas Lucke; Ute Kilger; Felix Hermann; Jakob Valvoda; Martin Erbacher; Daniel Herrmann; Matthias Hoffmann; Jin Jeon; Mario Araujo
Referenzen
‚Daniel Herrmann not only understands our technologies, but also the legal challenges of protecting them under EPO standards. He gives us excellent, effective and practical advice, and has made critical suggestions when we prepare and file applications in the EPO, leading to a high success rate both with individual examiners and the Boards of Appeal.‘
‚We work extensively, and pretty much exclusively, with Daniel Herrmann. There is a considerable learning curve to understanding our company’s technology, products and patent applications, so having continuity with Daniel is important to us.‘
‚Daniel Herrmann listens to our thoughts and accepts suggestions or tells us why he thinks we are on the wrong path. Exchanging thoughts with him is constructive and raises the quality of our submissions.‘
Kernmandanten
echovista Ultrasound Surface Cleaning Ltd.
HEMA Maschinen- und Apparateschutz GmbH
Ab Initio Technology LLC
Fraport AG
Sonovum GmbH
Ionsent Technologies GmbH
BLINK AG
LG Energy Solution
LX Semicon Ltd.
Woco Industrietechnik GmbH
Friedhelm Loh Stiftung & Co.
Komatsu Germany GmbH
Hisense Co., Ltd.
Tesla
TSMC
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised LG Energy Solution in Europe on the strategic drafting and filing of patents, patent management and opposition proceedings.
- Represented TSMC in all its applications in Europe, securing a grant rate of 100% in 2024.
- Managed FRAPORT AG’s entire IP portfolio.
Maiwald GmbH
With extensive expertise in pharmaceutical, chemistry, biotechnology, medical technology, mechanical and electrical engineering, and computer related inventions, the team at Maiwald GmbH advises on patent prosecution and post-grant validity proceedings before the European Patent Office. The practice also increasingly advises on digitalisation and artificial intelligence patents. Christian Schäflein assists clients with the design and management of global physics, mechanical engineering and digitalisation patent portfolios, while Christian Pioch specialises in electronic aerosol-generating systems for future productions. Naho Fujimoto evaluates and monitors competitor rights and prepares invalidity and non-infringement arguments. Other key team members are Derk Vos and Alexander Ortlieb.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Eva Dörner; Andreas Ledl; Christian Pioch; Alexander Ortlieb; Alexander Schmitz; Lutz Kietzmann; Dirk Bühler; Martin Huenges; Eva Ehlich; Sophie Ertl; Naho Fujimoto; Christian Schäflein; Annelie Wünsche; Derk Vos; Marco Stief
Kernmandanten
ABB AG
Biontech SE
Celanese bzw. Acetate
Beckman Coulter
Inari Agriculture Technology
Merck GmbH & Co. KG
Philip Morris
Stryker
Highlight-Mandate
- Representing ABB in around 10 opposition proceedings against Siemens and other competitors.
- Represented Philip Morris Products S.A. in various opposition proceedings against JT International S.A., Imperial Tobacco Ltd., and Nicoventures Trading Ltd. and appeal proceedings against Fontem.
- Coordinated an SPC portfolio for Cladribine, one of Merck’s most important products.
Meissner Bolte Patentanwälte Rechtsanwälte Partnerschaft mbB
Meissner Bolte Patentanwälte Rechtsanwälte Partnerschaft mbB registers patents, trade marks, and designs for a range of domestic and international clients. The team specialises in the mechanics, electronics, chemistry, automotive and medical industries, and has a specialist computer-implemented innovation department which covers AI patents. Ole Trinks focuses on patents concerning the research and development of cold cathode discharge lamps, while Florian Meyer specialises in computer-implemented inventions, blockchain technologies and AI. Jochen Kilchert advises innovation companies on IP law.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Gernot Schröer; Tilman Pfrang; Florian Meyer; Julian Würmser; Stephan Held; Kay Rupprecht; Felix Letzelter; Jasper Werhahn; Ole Trinks; Markus Schlögls; Jochen Kilchert; Stephen M. Zech; Lukas Bischoff
Referenzen
‘A highly experienced and supportive team.’
‘Personal and skilled contact with a major lawyer who has extensive experience in our field.’
‚Meissner Bolte offers assistance across a very wide range of legal services. The individual departments complement and harmonise in an absolutely impeccable manner. The correspondence lawyers deployed in other countries are also of very high quality.‘
Kernmandanten
Additive Drives GmbH
American Express
Archroma (Switzerland) GmbH/Archroma International (Germany) GmbH
Bavertis GmbH
Cybex GmbH
Cylib GmbH
Electrolux Group
EOS GmbH
Illinois Tool Works Inc.
Johnson Controls Inc.
K/S HIMPP
Koehler Paper SE
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
Oxylabs, UAB
Pulsetrain GmbH
Rockwool AS
RZB Rudolf Zimmermann, Bamberg GmbH
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Ltd.
Victaulic
Villeroy & Boch AG
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised FujiFilm on an international patent applications for key technologies as well as European proceedings, including isolated oppositions.
- Represented CJ CheilJedang in patent applications and opposition proceedings before the European Patent Office.
- Advised Wolf GmbH in the field of heating and air conditioning technology for German and European patent applications.
Prinz & Partner
Prinz & Partner is a boutique IP law firm providing services across all areas of patent, trade mark and design protection, including contentious enforcements and defences. The practice assists companies ranging from start-ups to multinationals with German and European patent applications across a number of technical areas. Co-heads Jochen Sties and Thomas Kitzhofer specialise in the drafting of patent and utility model applications in the fields of mechanics and material sciences.
Praxisleiter:
Jochen Sties; Thomas Kitzhofer
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Tim Hülsheger; Ute Feldmann; Thomas Heydenreich
Referenzen
‘We have recommended the team to many Japanese clients for their precision, professionalism and flexibility for the services they provide. Based on their rich experience before the EPO and GPTO in variety of technical fields, the team’s approaches are always very practical and to the point.’
‘Thomas Kitzhofer, Jochen Sties and Tim Hülsheger are the colleagues work with us very frequently. They are very capable, professional, kind and client-orientated. They also understand the key points for the client and give very satisfying solutions.’
‘Jochen Sties has handled so many patent applications as well as opposition proceedings for our Japanese clients, in most cases with successful results. He is careful in analysing the legal and technical issues behind the cases and find precisely the best way to go. He is also flexible in approaches to fit in our clients‘ business goals.’
Kernmandanten
CRRC China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation
Kennametal
ZF Group
Valeo
Rational
Bobst
Faurecia
Bürkert
BMW
Rohde & Schwarz
Süss Microtec
GB Boucherie
DEHN
Delo Industrieklebstoffe
Langmatz
Ohrmann
Schill + Seilacher
Sartorius
Metrona Union
Easelink
Tintometer
BCS Automotive Interface Solutions
AMICA S.A.
Curiosity Diagnostics
Bio-Rad Laboratories
Alfred E. Tiefenbacher
medac
Tianma Group
Murrelektronik
Emma Sleep
Bühler
Transmutex
Prüfer & Partner
Prüfer & Partner drafts patent and utility model applications at the DPMA and EPO, ensuring optimal enforceability and legal validity for clients spanning the USA, Japan, China and Korea. The firm is frequently instructed by Asian clients, having enhanced its capabilities with a dedicated Asian desk. Jointly leading the practice are Dorothea Hofer, who brings expertise in physics, electrical engineering, and IT, Jürgen Feldmeier, who focuses on mechanical engineering and automotive patents, and Andreas Oser, who specialises in chemistry, pharmaceuticals and life sciences.
Praxisleiter:
Dorothea Hofer; Jürgen Feldmeier; Andreas Oser
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Markus Adamczyk; Christian Einsel; Christian Gärtner; Susanne Sonnenhauser; Peter Klein
Referenzen
‘Particularly, in the field of patent prosecution, we have entrusted the firm a large number of patent applications for prosecution before the German Patent Office, as well as the European Patent Office.‘
‚The overall level of their services is excellent. Their response is always very quick and appropriate, and their ability to understand and analyse legal and technical issues is sufficiently high. Our Japanese clients are totally satisfied with quality of the work provided by the firm.‘
‚Dorothea Hofer, Jürgen Feldmeier and Andreas Oser are particularly good. They have a strong ability to understand complicated technical matters, provide appropriate advice and deal with urgent matters.‘
‚The team is distinguished by a collaborative and client-focused approach that emphasises both technical excellence and innovative thinking.‘
‚Jürgen Feldmeier appropriately selects his associates to form a strong team to handle important cases. Our Japanese clients are totally satisfied with quality of the work provided by the team.‘
‘The individuals consistently demonstrate professionalism, expertise, and a genuine commitment to client success. What sets them apart is their ability to combine deep technical knowledge with practical, solution-oriented thinking.’
Kernmandanten
EOS GmbH Electro Optical Systems
Biedermann Technologies GmbH & Co. KG
Brother Industries, Ltd.
Multipond Wägetechnik GmbH
Hymmen GmbH Maschinen und Anlagenbau
Freiberger Compound Materials
Knorr Bremse AG
Toray Industries
Terumo Corporation
Knauf Insulation
BHS Technologies GmbH
Nipro Corporation
Heusch GmbH
QRSkin GmbH
Hyve AG
Kesseböhmer
CloudMinds (Shanghai) Robotics Co. Ltd.
Everspin Corp.
SK On Co., Ltd.
SK Innovation
SK Inc.
Webasto SE
IUCF-HYU
LOESCH Verpackungstechnik GmbH + Co. KG
SANDEN CORPORATION
ASAHI SEIKO CO., LTD.
Tsann Kuen (Zhangzhou) Enterprise Co., Ltd
Evomedis GmbH
Novartis
Sandoz
Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology
Toppan Printing Co., Ltd.
Suzhou Abogen Biosciences Co., Ltd.
A.L.M.T. Corp.
Microbium D.o.o.
Japan Aviation Electronics. Ind. Ltd.
Abestype Ltd.
Qubig GmbH
Moon Biotech
Senara GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised SK On. on a number of patent applications in Europe.
- Advised SK Innovation on patents concerning future greentech technologies.
- Advised Hymmen on its worldwide patent strategy.
Gulde & Partner
Gulde & Partner has an international reach, with a Beijing office extending its offering and allowing it to advise clients across both China and Korea. The team is jointly led by Diane Reinstädler, who specialises in mechanical engineering and automotive patents, Sönke Lorenz, who advises core clients in Asia on electrical engineering and telecoms patent disputes, and Jens Glienke, who handles global patent prosecutions, with a particular focus on patent litigation in the tobacco sector.
Praxisleiter:
Diane Reinstädler; Sönke Lorenz; Jens Glienke
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Niklas Mellmann; Tobias Nickel
Referenzen
‚Very high level of professional expertise, excellent communication between team members, strong focus on the individual needs of clients with regard to processes. Extensive experience with activities in the Asian market and very good contacts to this region.‘
‘Jens Glienke deals with the different biological and medical issues of our inventions in a very professional and thorough manner. All our questions are answered patiently and thoroughly. We get very good input to optimise the patent applications. He works very efficiently.’
‚Gulde & Partner’s team of patent attorneys is extremely strong. All of the patent attorneys we work with are equally highly qualified. The collaboration is also very enjoyable because Gulde’s patent attorneys are not only outstanding professionals, but are also always available at short notice for discussions and queries, complete all tasks quickly and are always open to pragmatic solutions.‘
‚A particular area of expertise is telecoms, especially standard-essential patents. We have handled a large number of major cases in this area together with Gulde and can recommend Gulde’s patent attorneys without reservation.‘
‚We have recently worked together on cases in the field of mechanics, where the collaboration has been excellent. If I had to describe the team in a few words, I would say they are technically excellent, responsive, pragmatic and pleasant to work with.‘
‚Particularly noteworthy are the tactical and strategic skills of all of these patent attorneys, which reflect their industry and consulting experience. They are practitioners with excellent theoretical knowledge.‘
‘This firm’s uniqueness lies in efficient communication and unwavering professionalism.’
‘Very efficient and cost-effective prosecution team.’
Kernmandanten
Volkswagen AG
Audi AG
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
Samsung SDI Co. Ltd.
Samsung Display Co. Ltd.
Siemens AG
Robert Bosch GmbH
Reemtsma Cigarettenfabriken GmbH
Imperial Tobacco Group
Mando Corporation
Nerudia
Carl Zeiss AG
Thyssenkrupp AG
SITECH Sitztechnik GmbH
ELMOS Semiconductor SE
Danfoss GmbH
Eppendorf SE
AVM Computersysteme Vertriebs GmbH
DREAME INTERNATIONAL (HONGKONG) LIMITED
LAIFEN
JINKO SOLAR
Insta GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Handled patent prosecution work for the Samsung Group, including its flagship company, Samsung Electronics.
- Provided patent prosecution services to Volkswagen AG.
- Supported Imperial Tobacco, UK, along with its affiliates Fontem Ventures and Reemtsma Cigarettenfabrik GmbH in protecting their IP across both traditional tobacco products and e-cigarette technologies.
Jones Day
The team at Jones Day specialises in cross-border patent application and litigation for clients in healthcare, pharmaceuticals and life sciences, with clients from Germany, Europe, the USA and the Asia Pacific region. Olga Bezzubova covers life sciences and chemistry patent prosecutions, and Dorothée Weber-Bruls specialises in engineering and technology patents. Gerd Jaekel advises on complex IP matters across a wide range of industries, and Christian Paul assists with patent disputes over chemicals, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.
Praxisleiter:
Olga Bezzubova; Dorothée Weber-Bruls; Gerd Jaekel; Christian Paul
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Andreas Holzwarth-Rochford; Sven Rihm; Ping Li
Referenzen
‘The Jones Day team is highly professional, with excellent experience to draw on. The team has significant breadth and depth and is thus able to address routine issues promptly, but also to address edge cases, where other firms may struggle.’
‘The individuals I interact with have the ability and expertise to understand the underlying technology and legal issues quickly and effectively. This combination heightens our confidence in the end product, whether it is patent prosecution or infringement studies.’
Kernmandanten
Akebia Therapeutics, Inc.
Genentech, Inc.
Motherson Group
Sunrise Medical GmbH & Co. KG
MSA Safety
Ensyn Renewables
Tektronix
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised MSA Safety on patent prosecution and portfolio management.
Lorenz Seidler Gossel
Lorenz Seidler Gossel is an IP boutique firm that provides clients with services spanning strategic portfolio management to the enforcement of clients' patent rights. The team is experienced in representing clients before the German and European Patent Offices and manages international patent families across the USA, Japan, China and Korea. Key names on the team include practice head Dieter Laufhütte, Uwe Herrman and Wolfgang Behr.
Praxisleiter:
Dieter Laufhütte
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Wolfgang Behr; Robert Frick; Uwe Herrmann; Xiaodi Wang
Referenzen
‘The individuals I work with stand out for their rare combination of technical excellence, commercial awareness, and a highly collaborative mindset. What truly sets them apart from competitors is their ability to anticipate issues, communicate with clarity, and consistently deliver practical, business-oriented advice under pressure.’
‘Robert Frick brings not only deep legal knowledge but also a calm, solution-driven approach that inspires confidence. He is exceptionally responsive, thoughtful in his analysis and always focused on getting to the heart of the matter.’
‚The team is always up to date on the latest developments in case law and at patent offices. In addition, the patent attorneys are always willing to familiarise themselves with new subject areas.‘
‚The experience and knowledge regarding the diverse aspects and issues involved in disputes are already being utilised by Wolfgang Behr in the preparation of patent applications and in the conduct of examination or opposition proceedings.‘
Kernmandanten
Liebherr
Fresenius Medical Care AG
Telefónica Germany GmbH & Co. OHG
KSB
Alois Pöttinger Maschinenfabrik GmbH
CATL
Mazda
Ford
SK
Murata
Carl Zeiss Optotechnik GmbH
Braun GmbH
Bulthaup GmbH & Co. KG
Fibertex
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
sun-X GmbH
Engel Austria
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented the Liebherr Group in patent matters worldwide.
Michalski - Hüttermann & Partner Patentanwälte
The team at Michalski - Hüttermann & Partner Patentanwälte is strong in both patent prosecution and litigation, advising large German and foreign companies on the drafting, filing and granting of patent applications before German and European courts. Ulrich Storz handles international mandates across the life sciences. Other key team members include Stefan Michalski and Wasilis Koukounis.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Ulrich Storz; Stefan Michalski; Wasilis Koukounis
Referenzen
‚What stands out most when working with Michalski Hüttermann & Partner is their pragmatic and business-oriented approach to intellectual property matters. Rather than providing theoretical legal advice, the firm consistently delivers solutions tailored to our business’s commercial realities and strategic goals.‘
‘Highly motivated and always thinking strategically.’
‚Highly reputable and skilled lawyers and an extremely responsive and pleasant team behind them. They always remain cool-headed, even in in stressful and tricky situations.‘
Kernmandanten
Immatics
Hitachi Power Grids
Deutsche Post/DHL
Ecolab
Novaled
Philips
Bayer
Wilo
CLASSEN Group
Flender GmbH
TK Elevator
General Motors
Heye International
ThalesAlenia Space
Quanta Computer
Universitäten NRW
Miele
dSpace
Aumund Gruppe
FLSmidth
Innomotics
Simmons & Simmons
Simmons & Simmons utilises its international network to handle global patent portfolios across health and life sciences, TMT, media, telecoms and biotechnology. The team also undertakes freedom-to-operate analyses for its clients. Stephanie Nottrott, who focuses on global patent and trade mark portfolios for biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and nanotechnology companies, leads the team. Fellow co-head Fritz Lahrtz advises on all fields of IP.
Praxisleiter:
Stephanie Nottrott; Fritz Lahrtz
Referenzen
‚Enjoyed working with the team. Good combination of prosecution and litigation.‘
‚Particularly like working with Stephanie Nottrott and her team. Always helpful and interested.‘
Kernmandanten
Genevant
Samsung Bioepis
Celanese
Chugai Pharmaceutical Co.
Merus N.V.
Oberland M & V GmbH
Roche Diagnostics GmbH
G. Pohl-Boskamp GmbH & Co.KG
Cellectis
ImmunoGen
Agenus Inc
Akamis Bio Limited
Cooper Consumer Health
Alector LLC
Beam Therapeutics, Inc
Broad Institute
c-LEcta GmbH
Dizal (Jiangsu) Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
Fujifilm Cellular Dynamics
Genomatica, Inc
KSQ Therapeutics, Inc
PROvendis GmbH
The Japan Steel Works, Ltd.
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented Roche Diagnostics and Chugai Pharmaceutical in various patent examination procedures before the European and International Patent Offices.
- Supported a US/European chemical company’s the prosecution of its IP portfolio in the fields of polymer chemistry and manufacturing machines, including in opposition proceedings.
- Represented a global biotech company in the fields of CRISPR and Cas in several prosecution cases before the European Patent Office.
Weickmann & Weickmann
Weickmann & Weickmann is particularly well versed in handling patent matters in the areas of mechanics, electrical engineering and IT, chemistry, as well as life sciences. The firm’s capabilities range from M&A due diligence and patent applications to opposition and nullity proceedings. Frank Feller and Wolfgang Weiß jointly lead the practice
Praxisleiter:
Frank Feller; Wolfgang Weiß
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Zimmermann & Partner Patentanwälte mbB
Zimmermann & Partner Patentanwälte mbB is a boutique IP law firm advising clients across the chemistry, IT, mechanical and electrical engineering, physics and medical technology industries. The team advises on complex international patent litigation and opposition work. Gerd Zimmermann prosecutes cases in the fields of nanotechnology, mechanical technology, automation and electron optics. Benedikt Neuburger specialises in green technology, power engineering and deposition technology.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Dominique Gobert; Frank Steinbach; Benedikt Neuburger; Gerd Zimmermann; Joel Nägerl; Brett Neale
Referenzen
‚The uniqueness of Zimmermann & Partner is reflected above all in the combination of in-depth technical expertise and legal precision. The team consists of specialists with a scientific or technical background and special legal training, which enables them to evaluate even highly complex technical inventions with legal certainty and to protect them optimally.‘
‚Competence and understanding of the industry due to the diversity of expertise, both classic intellectual property rights, from patents to trade marks, and complex licensing and exploitation strategies are covered.‘
‚The firm is characterised by its ability to communicate complex technical issues in a comprehensible manner, both via direct client contact and in negotiations with patent offices and courts. The firm often develops long-term, trusting relationships with clients, in which individual protection strategies are continuously developed and adapted.‘
‚Optimum results are achieved for the protection and exploitation of intellectual property.‘
‚Particularly noteworthy is the interdisciplinary cooperation of patent attorneys and attorneys-at-law under one roof, which allows a holistic view of complex issues and particularly comprehensive advice.‘
‚Professional breadth, a high level of technical understanding, interdisciplinary and collegial cohesion are the qualities that characterise this team and set it apart from many of its competitors.‘
‘Prompt responses, very responsible and professional service.’
‘Benedikt Neuburger is very professional and responsible in each case.’
Kernmandanten
Accelleron
Applied Materials Inc.
BOMAG AG
Bombardier
BSN Medical GmbH
Burmester Audiosysteme
The European Patent Office
Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung
Fresenius
General Electric
Grupo Antolin
HP
Hyperconnect
ICT Integrated Circuit Testing Gesellschaft für Halbleiterprüftechnik GmbH
Killwatt GmbH
Lauda Dr. Wobser
LM Wind Power
Medtronic
NKT Cables
Saint-Gobain
Samsung Display
Samsung Electronics
Samsung Semiconductor Europe GmbH
Schindler Aufzüge
Senju Metal Industry Co Ltd
Swiss Turbo Systems
Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd.
The Walt Disney Company
Tier Mobility
Wella
Wittenstein SE
Highlight-Mandate
- Defended Saint-Gobain in appeal opposition proceedings before the EPO against a challenge brought by Robert Bosch GmbH.
- Represented Saint-Gobain in EPO appeal proceedings, securing the revocation of one of 3M’s patents.
- Represented General Electric Company in EPO opposition proceedings, achieving the revocation of one of Vestas Wind Systems’ patents relating to over-voltage ride-through technology.
Bals & Vogel
Bals & Vogel is active in prosecution matters before the German Patent and Trade Mark Office, advising on traditional engineering disciplines. The team has also expanded into patents covering medical technology and computer-implemented inventions. Andreas Vogel assists in all areas of patent prosecution work, while Rüdiger Bals represents clients in the emerging European patent landscapes.
Praxisleiter:
Andreas Vogel; Rüdiger Bals; Kai Kuhlmann; Katharina Klasen; Kai Klein; Alexandra Anishchanka
Referenzen
‚Bals & Vogel stands out by combining deep legal expertise with a client-first approach, ensuring tailored and strategic solutions.‘
‘Andreas Vogel and Katharina Klasen are excellent and experienced professionals at filing and prosecuting patents. We work closely with them and are very happy with the services they provide. They are efficient and responsive and we enjoy working with them very much. We highly recommend them.’
‚The strength of the firm lies in the exceptional talent, dedication and innovative thinking of the attorneys. The team combines deep legal mastery with a commitment to client success.‘
‘Andreas Vogel is an incredible professional in all fronts: technology, management and vision. He has solutions to the most complex cases, including discussions about other jurisdictions.’
‘Proactive and responsive.’
‚Bals & Vogel’s patent prosecution team combines strong technical knowledge with strategic, client-focused advice. They are highly responsive and offer clear, commercially relevant guidance across a range of industries.‘
‚What I value most is their practical mindset: they focus on solutions, not just procedures. They show greater agility and professionalism.‘
‚What sets them apart is their collaborative approach and consistent partner involvement, which ensures quality and continuity. The team also leverages technology to improve workflow efficiency and communication. Overall, they offer a high level of professionalism and reliability.’
Kernmandanten
EON AG
Windmöller & Hölscher KG
Siemens Healthineers
Huf Hülsbeck GmbH
Vorwerk & Co. Interholding GmbH
Oerlikon Surface Solutions AG
Drägerwerk AG & Co. KGaA
Ardex GmbH
ASM Assembly Systems GmbH & Co. KG
Robert Bosch GmbH
Piller Blowers & Compressors GmbH
CARIAD SE
Evident Technology Center Europe
Highlight-Mandate
- Provided counsel to Huf Hülsbeck GmbH on the drafting and prosecution of German, European, and PCT patent applications in the field of automotive and sensor technologies.
- Represented E.ON AG on patent prosecution and litigation in the field of energy technologies.
HGF Europe LLP
HGF Europe LLP has a strong European network and specialises in overseeing cross-border healthcare, life sciences, and pharmaceutical patent matters. Practice head Bernhard Ganahl advises on patent prosecutions in the fields of physics and engineering. Christian Himmler advises mechanical engineering and medical technology clients. Jan Robert Naefe and Markus Zoller left the firm in July 2024.
Praxisleiter:
Bernhard Ganahl
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Christian Himmler
Kernmandanten
Kurtz GmbH
BlueCatBio GmbH
Emporia Telecom GmbH & Co. KG
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised Kurtz GmbH on all intellectual property issues and managed its IP portfolio.
- Advised on BlueCat Bio’s inventions and legal disputes with a former cooperation partner.
- Advised Emporia on FRAND licensing in the telecoms sector.
Kutzenberger Wolff & Partner Patentanwaltspartnerschaft mit beschränkter Berufshaftung
Kutzenberger Wolff & Partner Patentanwaltspartnerschaft mit beschränkter Berufshaftung advises clients from a range of industries at all stages of the patent life cycle. The team is led by Jan Pieter Loock, whose practice spans the automotive, food and agriculture and appliances sectors. He is joined by Felix Wolff, who specialises in strategic planning, and Oliver Brosch, who advises clients from the chemicals, pharmaceuticals and process technology industries.
Praxisleiter:
Jan Pieter Loock
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Felix Wolff; Oliver Brosch; Thilo Schwöbel; Jan Bülle; Gordian Prescher
Referenzen
‚Jan Pieter Loock is an excellent patent attorney.‘
‚Gordian Prescher is an excellent patent attorney, very detailed.‘
Kernmandanten
Panasonic Holdings Corporation
ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe AG
K-fee System GmbH
Sodapop GmbH
EUGSTER/FRISMAG AG
FREEZIO AG
GEA Food Solutions
Loparex Germany GmbH & Co. KG
Pfeifer & Langen GmbH & Co. KG
Suiteg GmbH
W. R. Grace & Co.
Pentafarma Sociedade Técnico-Medicinal S.A.
KEIPER Seating Mechanisms Co., Ltd
Grünenthal GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised Panasonic Holdings Corporation in the context of various nullity actions concerning patents on the WCDMA and LTE standard.
- Represented ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe AG in an opposition proceedings before the DPMA.
- Represented GCS German Capsule Solution GmbH in a nullity action against Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.
manitz | finsterwald
manitz | finsterwald covers the entire spectrum of IP law, advising on patent prosecution matters in fields such as technology, engineering, computer science, chemistry and life sciences. Sebastian Schaefer, Harald Bachhofer and Oliver Fries are central figures in team.
Praxisleiter:
Sebastian Schaefer; Oliver Fries; Harald Bachhofer
Referenzen
‘They have the ability to understand the business field from which the inventions arise and the ability to provide a concise summary of the information that is required for the client to make decisions regarding the prosecution of patents.’
‘Long term association with the same individuals has allowed a relationship based on mutual respect and trust to be established. New associates that have joined the team always seem to fit in well and can quickly support the established working relationship.’
‘We work with Manitz Finsterwald in the field of patent prosecution for highly technical, innovation-driven matters. Their team combines deep technical understanding with pragmatic, forward-looking legal advice, a rare combination that adds strategic value far beyond formal IP filing.’
Kernmandanten
General Motors Corp.
Aptiv
Sumitomo Rubber Industries
Schneider Electric SE
Sick AG
ABUS August Bremicker Söhne KG
ARRI AG
Max-Planck-Innovation
medmix Switzerland AG
Pfeiffer Vacuum Technology AG
MACO
WITTE Automotive GmbH
Mafell AG
Hitachi
Bizerba SE & Co. KG
batene GmbH
Weber Food Technology SE & Co. KG
Friedrich Boysen GmbH & Co. KG
BorgWarner Battery Systems GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised on the majority of General Motors‘ patent applications filed at the German Patent and Trade Mark Office.
- Filed and prosecuted a number of German and European patent applications for Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd., including opposition and appeal proceedings.
- Drafted and filed patent applications for medmix Switzerland AG, in addition to managing its international patent portfolio.