Firms To Watch: Intellectual property

2018-founded boutique AWA Law Advokater focuses on strategic advice, assisting Benelux clients with protecting and enforcing IP rights and identifying and realising the value of IP assets.
Firm co-founder Christoph De Preter heads Edson‘s technology and innovation team, which was recently strengthened by the arrival of seasoned IP litigator Judith Bussé as counsel from Crowell & Moring, and has a particular focus on clients in the technology and video game sectors.
Established in 2020 by former ALTIUS partners Paul Maeyaert and Jeroen Muyldermans, Fencer BV is a boutique firm specialising in IP, from creation, registration, and management, though to enforcement and dispute resolution.
Under the leadership of Alexis Hallemans, Nelissen Grade‘s IP team handles due diligence and portfolio management as well as copyright, trade mark, and unfair competition litigation.

Intellectual property in Belgium

ALTIUS

The sizeable IP practice at ALTIUS acts for clients including high-profile national and multinational companies and sovereign governments, and team members have appeared before courts up to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) and in international arbitrations. The practice is led by life sciences key contact Christophe Ronse, plant variety and food specialist Philippe de Jong, and Olivier Vrins, who is described as ‘one of the leading experts in geographical indications‘. Notable associates include trade mark and patent litigator Sophie Lens and pharmaceuticals specialist Kirian Claeyé.

Practice head(s):

Christophe Ronse; Olivier Vrins; Philippe de Jong


Other key lawyers:

Sophie Lens; Kirian Claeyé; Bregt Raus


Testimonials

‘This is a stellar team, recommended for any must-win case. Highly responsive, thorough, and above all nice people.’

‘Excellent. Clear communication and extensive knowledge of the subject matter.’ 

‘The team at ALTIUS consists of dedicated professionals who strive to advise clients in a practical and understandable manner based upon their in-depth legal knowledge and experience.’

‘Olivier Vrins is among the best in the field of IP practitioners. He is a master of the legal field and is able to explain very complex matters in an easy way.’

‘Extreme level of expertise in the field of geographical indications.’

‘Olivier Vrins is a good listener and an extremely effective lawyer. He knows everything there is to know – he is amazing! The go-to-lawyer for many international clients. Very honest too about the chances of an action.’

‘Excellent advice and horticulture-specific industry knowledge.’

‘Olivier Vrins is one of the leading experts in geographical indications law.’ 

Key clients

The Government and Attorney General of Pakistan


Ireleo SpA


Gilmar SpA


CIVC (Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne)


Top Hockey League


Novartis


Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD)


Bayer


Tata Steel


Organon


Amgen


Work highlights


  • Advising the Top Hockey League, an association of hockey clubs in the Belgian Honour Division, on corporate housekeeping and the negotiation and drafting of a range of sponsorship, broadcasting and service agreements, and a global collaboration agreement with the Royal Belgian Hockey Association.
  • Representing champagne maker Veuve Clicquot, the owner of the well-known orange colour mark, in several trade mark invalidity proceedings against the Lidl group.
  • Representing the Republic of Pakistan before the European Commission in opposition proceedings against an application by India for the registration of ‘Basmati’ as a protected geographical indication in the EU.

Bird & Bird

Bird & Bird‘s intellectual property practice is renowned for its ability to provide full-spectrum support to major national and multinational clients. Team lead Jean-Christophe Troussel has broad experience, while Benoit Van Asbroeck is particularly strong in litigation, with several victories before the CJEU. Domien Op De Beeck is similarly well regarded in litigation, and counsel Guillaume de Villegas is noted for his experience in complex trade mark and copyright cases. Associate Auriane Shockaert, meanwhile, is developing a strong reputation for handling complex IP agreements and patent and distribution disputes.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Christophe Troussel


Other key lawyers:

Benoit Van Asbroeck; Domien Op de Beeck; Guillaume de Villegas; Pierre Hechtermans; Auriane Shockaert


Testimonials

‘Bird & Bird offers very high-level IP knowledge and experience. Furthermore, the lawyers always manage to find pragmatic and relevant approaches to cases. In other words, it is clear that they aim to find solutions related to our numerous requests. We are entirely satisfied by their services.’

‘The team is very experienced and well placed with the courts in Belgium. There is also always someone available when needed. But the best asset is the insight they give during strategic discussions about IP and legal processes.’

‘Excellent communication, great responsive follow ups, excellent knowledge of the field. International team with a solid network.’

‘Very reactive, clear and concise, and comprehensive in their responses. They stick to the agreed formats and channels, and the partner offers spontaneous advice on certain watchlists, so clearly keeps an eye on our file. Overall knowledge of the field is extremely solid and communication is fluid and pleasant.’

‘Benoit van Asbroeck has always been truly dedicated to us as a client. Our files are always treated with great importance and professionalism. He has a very high level of IP knowledge and experience. He is also very client oriented and is able to propose creative legal solutions, helping to solve complicated files.’

‘Domien Op de Beeck has the right brains to do the job. Strategic thinking combined with a personal and human approach. His knowledge about different industries is also an asset that has helped us in specific situations.’

Key clients

Anheuser-Busch InBev


Chemicar Europe


Teva Pharmaceuticals


Genetec Inc.


CureVac AG


Caeleste


Nevro Corp.


STADA Arzneimittel AG


Purna Pharmaceuticals


Ferrero


Le Pain Quotidien


Nestlé


Trovac


Eurogentec


Terumo Europe


FAM, Stumabo and Hifferman


World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)


Volkswagen AG


Work highlights


  • Continuing to defend Anheuser-Busch InBev’s trade marks, and led a number of successful negotiations for ABI in strategic trade mark collision matters.
  • Instructed to represent Chemicar Europe in a patent dispute in relation to its spray paint technologies.

Crowell & Moring

National and multinational corporates call on Crowell & Moring for assistance with obtaining, managing, and enforcing their IP rights. The team is led by Kristof Roox, a co-managing partner in the Brussels office and a ‘veteran litigator‘ with specialist expertise in the intersection of IP and antitrust law and in supplementary protection certificate (SPC) litigation. The ‘hands-onJan-Diederik Lindemans is a sought-after contact for clients in the media and entertainment and IT and telecoms sectors, where Sari Depreeuw is also highly regarded. Cross-border litigation and strategy are key strengths of the team, which also advises on transactions and portfolio management.

Practice head(s):

Kristof Roox


Other key lawyers:

Jan-Diederik Lindemans; Sari Depreeuw; Jurgen Figys


Testimonials

‘Crowell & Moring has one of the largest IP teams in Belgium, covering all IP rights and industry sectors, particularly the life sciences sector.’ 

‘The Crowell team stands out as one of the few truly international IP teams in Europe.’ 

‘No nonsense advice, good client communication, and responsiveness. They have added new people to the firm and the quality continues to rise.’ 

Key clients

Guylian


Viatris (formerly Mylan)


Sandoz


Stada


Delta Light


Novartis


Alcon Researcg Ltd.


Telenet


Black & Decker


Tomorrowland, Rock Werchter and Pukkelpop festival


Tereos Starch & Sweeteners Belgium


Itram Higiene


Imperial Brands


Electronic Arts


Dingie


Dutch Filmworks


Fresenius Medical Care


Zentiva


Hexagon Geospatial


Avexis (Novartis Gene Therapies)


Imperial Tobacco


Work highlights


  • Representing Novartis in various parallel import cases and Sandoz and other pharmaceutical clients in patent and SPC disputes affecting the launch of (biosimilar) medicines.
  • Acting as external general counsel to Guylian, providing general day-to-day advice and guiding the client through its strategic transformation, taking over its trade mark portfolio and providing advice on product rebranding, advertising, franchising and distribution agreements, contracts issues, and so on.
  • Advised different clients from the new technologies sector on a wide variety of IP and commercial issues, including on copyright, regulatory questions, the negotiation and drafting of strategic collaboration contracts, strategic commercial matters, and so on.

HOYNG ROKH MONEGIER

A boutique IP firm operating across five EU countries, HOYNG ROKH MONEGIER is particularly well regarded for the high volume of patent litigation it covers, with the Brussels office often drawing on the firm’s network to handle major cross-border cases. Key sectors include media and life sciences, where the firm also provides regulatory advice. Liesbeth Weynants leads the team in Belgium, while Fabienne Brison focuses on copyright, media, and novel technologies, and Steven Cattoor is recommended for his ‘experience and in-depth knowledge‘. Associate Ine Letten and the ‘diligentTim Robrechts, who was promoted to counsel in January 2022, are also noted.

Practice head(s):

Liesbeth Weynants


Other key lawyers:

Fabienne Brison; Steven Cattoor; Tim Robrechts; Ine Letten


Testimonials

‘Hoyng Rokh Monegier Belgium is one of the top practices in the Belgian patent litigation market. The size and breadth of the team is excellent and the range of cases the firm gets involved in is astonishing. The firm is great value for money and has a diverse set of lawyers. The lawyers are also great to work with, which is important when you are spending a lot of time together on large complex cases. Another unique attribute of HRM is that they can staff lawyers cross-border for larger projects, which can be very helpful when lawyers are under pressure from different cases.’

‘Steven Cattoor is a great lawyer with a huge amount of experience and in-depth knowledge of the Belgian market. He gets stuck into the details and gets involved in the day-to-day matters. He is approachable and great to work with. Tim Robrechts is diligent and a safe and reliable pair of hands.’

‘Steven Cattoor impresses with his capabilities and expertise. He is available whenever needed and responds immediately.’

Key clients

Apple


Anne Frank Fonds


Biogen


Boehringer Ingelheim


Ceva Santé Animale


PlayRight


Porsche


Promeco


SABAM


SBS Belgium


Teva Pharma Belgium


Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.


Vlisco


Yeda R&D Company Ltd.


NautaDutilh

NautaDutilh fields a ‘top-notch‘, ‘responsive‘, and ‘pragmatic‘ IP team, with particular expertise in complex and cross-border patent and trade mark litigation. Florence Verhoestraete heads the practice alongside ‘excellent IP litigatorTanguy De Haan, who has experience appearing before the highest Belgian, Benelux, and EU courts. Transactional support and regulatory advice are also key areas for the firm’s IP lawyers, especially in life sciences, where Verhoestraete, who also leads the life sciences sector team, is highly regarded. Also noted is experienced senior counsel Philippe Péters.

Practice head(s):

Florence Verhoestraete; Tanguy de Haan


Other key lawyers:

Philippe Péters


Testimonials

‘We received excellent pragmatic advice. The team was very responsive and the business-oriented approach combined with the top-notch legal expertise is a perfect match for us.’

‘The team knows our company very well and knows what is important for our company. As such, they an always assist us with very pragmatic advice that is consistent with our company’s mission and values.’

‘Florence Verhoestraete is very knowledgeable and is always available for excellent advice on contracts. The advice is always pragmatic, to the point, and adjusted to the specific needs and concerns of the client.’

‘Tanguy de Haan is very smart and responsive. He is an excellent IP litigator and strategist. Moreover, he also has a very good sense of humour and is a pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

Castel Frères


Citroën


GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)


Guerlain


LEGO


Levi Strauss & Co.


L’Oréal


LVMH


Nestlé


Salaisonniers corses


Scotch Whisky Association


Super Brand Licensing


Unilever


The holders of the PINK LADY trade mark


VIB (Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)


Work highlights


  • Assisting a medical devices company in high-value damages claim for alleged patent infringement.
  • Assisting Citroën in pan-European injunction proceedings against the use of Polestar’s double chevron logo.
  • Assisting Glaxo Group in defending its EU trade mark registration for a three-dimensional purple inhaler before the General Court of the CJEU.

Stibbe

Contentious work, especially multi-jurisdictional patent litigation, is a core focus for the intellectual property practice at Stibbe. Team co-lead Ignace Vernimme is especially well regarded in this sphere, with qualifications as an arbitrator and mediator in addition to his experience in litigation. Philippe Campolini, who leads the practice alongside Vernimme, has ‘superb expertise‘, and is particularly recommended for representing clients in the life sciences and medical device sectors in patent and trade mark litigation. He also has experience in transactional and advisory work.

Other key lawyers:

Erik Valgaeren; Gwennaëlle Kusters; Louis Bidaine


Testimonials

‘The practice has great expertise in patent litigation, in particular in the pharmaceutical industry. They also cover all aspects of IP law. They are really client-oriented and down-to-earth. They know how to work out a global strategy and are good team players in cross-border matters.’

‘Philippe Campolini and Ignace Vernimme are always available to provide the best advice possible to clients in a friendly atmosphere. It is always nice to work with both of them.’

‘Philippe Campolini is highly approachable, has superb expertise, and is a pleasure to work with.’

Work highlights


  • Representing ArcelorMittal in patent entitlement proceedings initiated by Tata Steel before the Luxemburg District Court.
  • Assisting Belmoca in a pan-European patent infringement case brought by Jacobs Douwe Egberts relating to its Nespresso-compatible cup.
  • Providing ongoing assistance to Morris Comics on all matters related to the management of the comic series “Lucky Luke”, including the drafting and revision of all copyright and trade mark-related agreements.

Allen & Overy LLP

Allen & Overy LLP‘s intellectual property team is instructed by major corporates on a range of contentious and non-contentious matters, from disputes at all levels of the Belgian and EU courts to compliance advice and transactional support. Team lead Peter Van Dyck is a specialist in both IP and technology law, while Geert Glas is a renowned litigator and arbitrator. Senior associate Edward Taelman has broad experience, while Tine Carmeliet, who was promoted to senior associate in May 2022, is particularly sought after by life sciences clients.

Practice head(s):

Peter Van Dyck


Other key lawyers:

Geert Glas; Edward Taelman; Tine Carmeliet


Testimonials

‘Deep knowledge of complex matters in the area of intellectual property.’

‘Geert Glas is one of the most knowledgeable IP lawyers – even in complex cases he can bring simplicity. Edward Taelman is always available, giving very good support.’

Key clients

Brouwerij Haacht


DC Comics (Warner Bros)


Intel


Jack Daniel’s


Nikon


Ricoh


Syngenta


The North Face


Toyota


Zimmer Biomet


Work highlights


  • Representing various pharmaceutical companies in strategic patent litigation proceedings.
  • Advising breweries and other alcoholic beverage companies on a range of trade mark and other intellectual property issues.

Baker McKenzie CVBA/SCRL

Baker McKenzie CVBA/SCRL provides IP services including portfolio management, strategic advice, and representation in litigation on issues including infringement and unfair competition, with notable strength in cross-border European work. Senior counsel Koen De Winter leads the team alongside ‘responsive‘ counsel Michaël De Vroey. Each has broad experience across the range of IP matters, covering trade marks, copyrights, patents, and designs. In addition, De Winter has niche experience in trade secrets disputes.

Practice head(s):

Michaël De Vroey; Koen De Winter


Testimonials

‘Baker McKenzie is very competent and has an extensive network of offices covering all legal issues we have needed advice on.’

‘Michaël De Vroey provides great communication, is responsive and easy to understand, and stays on top of our projects.’

Key clients

Alex Antwerp


Âme Antwerp


Becton Dickinson group


British American Tobacco


Brussels International Trade Mart


Castart Clothing


Elbee PTY


General Electric


Hitashi Rail STS


Kadine (Essentiel Antwerp)


LA Poppe BV


LBrands


Moncler


Sporta De Waele


Sunclass Sonnevijver


Traxxas LP


Van Ratingen NV


Work highlights


  • Assisted Kadine, the owner of clothing brand Essentiel Antwerp, with securing a pan-European injunction against US company Fear of God LLC before the Court of Appeal in Brussels for infringement of the Essentiel Antwerp trade marks and for parasitic competition by selling clothes under the confusingly similar sign Essentials.
  • Successfully represented Meguiar’s Inc (part of 3M Company) in a multi-jurisdictional domain name dispute involving several domain names registered in bad faith by Dutch company W3Company (meguiarsshop.nl, meguiarsshop.fr and meguiarsshop.be).
  • Representing Moncler, the owner of the well-known Stone Island clothing brand, in a trade mark infringement action before the Brussels courts against a local clothing company over the use of a four-pointed star logo on clothing.

CMS

Drawing on the experience of lawyers across its intellectual property, TMT, and commercial litigation departments, CMS has a strong reputation for IP work. Tom Heremans and Renaud Dupont co-lead the ‘highly responsive‘ team, which handles both non-contentious and contentious matters, with appearances before national and European courts up to the CJEU. Senior associate Lisbeth Depypere is also well regarded, and, as a qualified mediator, is a key contact for clients pursuing alternative dispute resolution (ADR).

Practice head(s):

Tom Heremans; Renaud Dupont


Other key lawyers:

Lisbeth Depypere


Testimonials

‘Highly responsive team with the focus to maintain and emphasise the main line of argument in complex litigation matters.’

‘High level of expertise in court proceedings with an international element. Excellent English language support. Reliable assessment of trade mark and competition law issues in an international context. Absolutely reliable deadline management.’

‘Tom Heremans and Lisbeth Depypere are highly competent IP lawyers with a clear view of complex litigation matters.’

Key clients

Amazon


Aveve


Colruyt


Mountain Warehouse Ltd


HENKEL


Troostwijk


KASPA


Robshare


Delvaux


Eko Okna


M-A-S and BASE Solution GmbH


Sky


Work highlights


  • Representing two US entities of Amazon in trade mark infringement proceedings against Christian Louboutin before the Brussels court.
  • Assisting Aveve with a case concerning the counterfeit of the packaging of four of its bread mix products.
  • Representing Colruyt in litigation concerning its new beer, which was marketed under the trade mark Majeur.

Fieldfisher

Patent litigation in the telecoms sector is a core focus for Fieldfisher‘s IP team, which acts as a trusted adviser to major Belgian companies in the sector, and has experience taking cases to the CJEU. The practice is led by Stijn Debaene, a key contact for telecoms clients, and Hakim Haouideg, who also handles the IP aspects of major transactions. Of counsel Serge Flecijn is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Stijn Debaene


Other key lawyers:

Hakim Haouideg; Serge Flecijn


Key clients

Proximus


Telenet


3M


Atos Worldline


Puratos


The Government of Canada


Vitra


Alpargatas


Chatka Seafood S.L.


Fujirebio


la fille d’O


Ansys


AGC Glass Europe


Work highlights


  • Successfully represented Telenet in copyright litigation against Mircom which went up to the CJEU.
  • Representing Puratos in trade mark litigation against Barry Callebaut.
  • Successfully represented Chatka Seafood in trade mark litigation against Walfood.

Inteo

Independent IP-focused firm Inteo fields an ‘agile‘ and ‘impressive‘ team, with a strong track record in complex litigation. The team is headed jointly by firm co-founders Sofie Cubitt and the ‘very passionateKristof Neefs. Cubitt is an expert in copyright and contracts, while Neefs specialises in patent and trade mark litigation, with a complementary focus on technology-related issues such as software and trade secrets. Associate Stéphanie de Potter provides notable support on contentious matters.


Practice head(s):

Sofie Cubitt; Kristof Neefs


Other key lawyers:

Stéphanie de Potter


Testimonials

‘Small, agile team with good IP lawyers specialised in IP disputes.’

‘This small boutique firm has made a name for itself in a very short period of time. This must be due to the personality of its main lawyers, Kristof Neefs and Sofie Cubitt, and their achievement of some remarkable results in court.’

‘The team is not only fun to work with, they are also really good at what they do. They have an eye for the client’s needs and think of pragmatic solutions without losing sight of the client’s interests.’

Key clients

Ceres Pharma


Skechers USA Inc. II


HAVN Group


Urban Maschinenbau


Materialise NV


Galapagos


Siemens Industry Software


Pelckmans Uitgevers


AB Inbev


Illumina


GTM BV


2Original BV


Smappee NV


Pauwels Transformers


Chocolate World NV


Niko NV


Eleven Sports Network


Work highlights


  • Secured an injunction against a key competitor for Illumina, a global leader in DNA sequencing technologies, in complex patent litigation concerning DNA sequencing by synthesis.
  • Advising biotechnology trailblazer Galapagos on the negotiation and drafting of research-focused agreements.
  • Successfully represented Urban in complex patent litigation regarding window technology and Ceres Pharma in two appellate trade mark cases initiated by its competitor Perrigo.

Liedekerke

The intellectual property team at Liedekerke handles the full range of advisory, transactional, and contentious IP matters, with a focus on trade marks, design rights, trade secrets and copyright. Experienced commercial lawyer and team lead Etienne Kairis has particular expertise in the automotive sector, while Sarah Van Den Brande, who was promoted to partner in January 2022, is strong across copyright, trade mark, and design matters, as well as in data protection issues. Counsel Bernard Vanbrabant is also recommended, in particular for anti-counterfeiting work.

Practice head(s):

Etienne Kairis


Other key lawyers:

Sarah Van Den Brande; Bernard Vanbrabant; Amélia Goy


Testimonials

‘The Liedekerke IP team is knowledgeable, prompt, efficient, pragmatic, and commercial. A go-to team for IP support in Belgium.’ 

‘Very diverse and young team, all pleasant to work with. True experts in IP and life sciences.’

‘Liedekerke’s team is experienced and very responsive.’ 

‘The team provides prompt, detailed responses to all queries. Their communication always exhibits professionalism and amicability in equal parts.’

‘Etienne Kairis, Amélia Goy, and Bernard Vanbrabant do a fantastic job.’

‘Sarah Van Den Brande particularly focuses on copyright, trade marks, and designs within the IP practice, while also utilising her knowledge in commercial and contract law. Trusted knowledge of the market.’

‘Amélia Goy is unwaveringly helpful and forthright. High-quality work and consistent results.’

‘Sarah Van Den Brande is excellent to work with, and has a hands-on approach.’

Key clients

Communaute Francaise De Belgique


Sonaca


L’Oreal


IMPS


AGICOA Group


Belgian State


VAAAM AG


Kerry


Aegide


Kia Motors


Maritime Coastal Agency


Sunday B. Morning


Work highlights


  • Representing the Association of International Collective Management of Audiovisual Works (AGICOA) and its Belgian affiliate, AGICOA Europe Brussels, in litigation proceedings against various parties, including BAVP, Telenet, Orange, Voo and Brutélé.
  • Represented L’Oréal in a patent infringement dispute related to the technology at the basis of its Steampod 3.0 device.
  • Assisting Sunday B. Morning in relation to its trade mark portfolio in Belgium, as well as in enforcing its rights against the previous owner of the Sunday B. Morning business.

Simont Braun

Simont Braun‘s ‘highly qualified‘ IP practice is particularly noted for complex litigation, with regular appearances before the highest Benelux and EU courts, and strong collaboration with the firm’s Supreme Court team. Emmanuel Cornu and Eric De Gryse lead the team, and both are experienced in cross-border cases involving patents, trade marks, and designs, with De Gryse also well versed in the protection of geographic indications. Fernand de Visscher is ‘very strong in patents‘, and handles mediation and arbitration as well as litigation.

Practice head(s):

Eric De Gryse; Emmanuel Cornu


Other key lawyers:

Fernand de Visscher


Testimonials

‘The Simont Braun legal team is very highly qualified, and the different lawyers are specialised in all possible areas, with a very thorough and practical approach. They are able to understand the client’s needs and go directly to the point.’

‘They stand out for their high level of professionalism, deep knowledge of IP matters, especially in the field of trade marks and patents as well as concerning geographical indications, their very good contact with clients, and the clarity of their opinions.’ 

‘Extensive expertise in IP. Efficient, proactive and business-friendly approach.’

Work highlights


  • Assisting major cable operators in Belgium in landmark proceedings against PlayRight, the major Belgian society for the collective management of neighbouring rights.
  • Assisting the owner of many standard essential patents (SEPs) and other patents covering technologies for telecoms lines in complex patent litigation.
  • Assisting a construction and mining equipment manufacturer in multi-jurisdictional trade mark litigation against Tigercat, its main competitor in the forestry sector.

VAN INNIS & DELARUE

Highly specialised‘ IP litigation boutique VAN INNIS & DELARUE is renowned for plaintiff-side contentious work, particularly in the luxury fashion sector. Co-founders Thierry Van Innis and Dieter Delarue lead the practice from Brussels and Antwerp, respectively. ‘Brilliant litigator‘ Van Innis has appeared before the CJEU, while Delarue brings expertise in drafting and negotiating licensing and coexistence agreements to the team. Counsel Anthony Van Der Planken is strong in trade mark infringement matters, and lawyer Alexander Heirwegh is noted for tech-related work.

Practice head(s):

Dieter Delarue; Thierry van Innis


Other key lawyers:

Anthony Van Der Planken; Alexander Heirwegh


Testimonials

‘The team is of outstanding quality.’

‘This practice is very hands-on, to the point and effective. Top service.’

‘A small but highly specialised IP firm, with very good litigation expertise.’

Key clients

Louboutin


Coolblue


Dr. Martens


Proximo Spirits


VF International (Kipling, Napapijri, etc.)


Extremis


Longchamp


Odile Jacobs


Thom Browne


Solta Medical


Deldo Tires/Tyretrans


BeMicron


OKI


Copaco


Ingram Micro


Ricoh


Hewlett-Packard


Siam Canadian Group


Tomorrowland


Howlin’


Jansport Apparel Corp. (Eastpak)


Louvers


Morobé


Anne Frank Stichting/VOOHT


Nathan Baume


Carrodrain/Steylaers


DPG Media


Nill Spring


Reynaers Aluminium


Whitewood Capital


BASF


Innersloth


Serax


Future Marketing Agency


SPGPrints


Organi


Initials L.A.


Buysse & Partners


Osaka


Alcobrands


Type Tailors


Work highlights


  • Representing Dr. Martens in trade mark infringement proceedings against Redisco.
  • Representing Christian Louboutin in an ongoing legal battle against Amazon, including trade mark infringement proceedings in several jurisdictions and two preliminary reference proceedings before the CJEU.
  • Representing Longchamp in copyright infringement proceedings against Bristol regarding the design of its Le Pliage handbag.

DLA Piper

The ‘pragmatic and proactiveAlexis Fierens heads DLA Piper‘s intellectual property team, which is part of the firm’s wider IP, IT, and TMT department. Copyright, trade marks, designs and software are core areas of focus for the practice, with Fierens broadly experienced in these matters, alongside lead lawyers Elisabeth DaemKaat Scheerlinck and new arrival Pauline Hellemans, who joined the team in February 2024.

Practice head(s):

Alexis Fierens


Other key lawyers:

Elisabeth Daem; Kaat Scheerlinck; Pauline Hellemans


Testimonials

‘The team is outstanding in terms of responsiveness and business understanding.’

‘Competence, availability, pragmatic advice.’

‘They cover all areas of expertise, as well as all (or at least most) territories, which makes it a one-stop shop for large international companies requesting legal services.’

‘Alexis Fierens has excellent knowledge of complicated matters in the areas relevant to media, copyright, and entertainment. He’s pragmatic and proactive, and always meets deadlines.’

Key clients

The Walt Disney Company


LA Turbine


City of Brussels


Exterioo


Juntoo


Filorga


Vervaeke-Belavi NV


Workero


Fresenius Kabi


Bacardi


Bancontact Payconiq Company


Jump For Me


DPG Media


Kinepolis


CycloCollect


Atos


Aerts (Salt & Pepper)


Ravensburger


Legio Group (Overstock, X²O)


Duracell


Buro3VD (Zangra)


Work highlights


  • Assisting The Walt Disney Company on a continuous basis regarding the roll out of the Disney+ service in Belgium and Luxembourg, including strategic advice on the implementation of the new Copyright Directive and the Audiovisual Media Services Directive.
  • Acting for one of the world’s largest producers and marketers of chemicals in a complex patent dispute.

Janson

Contentious work is a focus for Janson, which handles trade mark and copyright infringement, trade secrets violations, unfair competition, and patent litigation. The ‘top-notch‘ team leads are Mireille Buydens, who has particular expertise in complex IP transactions, and Hans Dhondt, who is strong in contracts and data protection matters, where counsel Charles Bernard is also noted.


Practice head(s):

Mireille Buydens; Hans Dhondt


Other key lawyers:

Charles Bernard


Testimonials

‘Mireille Buydens and her team have extraordinary competence in IP matters. They are reactive, efficient and deliver clear-cut advice. They are exceptionally good IP litigators.’

‘Amazingly successful, exceptionally efficient.’

‘Mireille Buydens is a strategic thinker, straight to the point, very convincing both internally and in the eyes of the courts. Excellent guidance through challenging cases.’

Great value for money. Hans Dhondt and Mireille Buydens are top-notch. Very knowledgeable and practical.’

‘Mireille Buydens has an exceptional knowledge of IP law. She is insightful, combining practical and theoretical intelligence. Her team is also exceptionally good: Charles Bernard is an excellent lawyer.’

‘Very competent, efficient, and likeable.’

‘Mireille Buydens and Hans Dhondt are great to work with. They act fast, are very knowledgeable and great in court, and on top of it all are very nice people.’

‘Mireille Buydens is really one of the very best IP lawyers in all of Belgium.’

Key clients

Heraeus Medical


Merck


Maisons du Monde


Lhoist


Casterman


Sabena Aerospace


Mondelez


Orchestre National de Belgique


Realco


Theravet


Work highlights


  • Successfully represented Merck in litigation against the Belgian State regarding the reinstatement of a patent deemed void.
  • Successfully represented Maisons du Monde in several copyright infringement proceedings against Belgian and Benelux companies.
  • Successfully represented Mondelez in a cross-border trade mark dispute with one of its major competitors.

Lydian

Lydian‘s IP practice handles contentious and non-contentious work for clients in a range of sectors, including luxury goods and life sciences. Commercial and litigation partner Bastiaan Bruyndonckx leads the team, and is particularly well regarded in the field of IT and data. Counsel Olivia Santantonio, meanwhile, has expertise in patent and trade mark portfolio management, as well as ‘in-depth knowledge and experience of IP court cases‘.

Practice head(s):

Bastiaan Bruyndonckx


Other key lawyers:

Olivia Santantonio


Testimonials

‘Very calm, thorough, and collaborative.’ 

‘Great expertise in trade mark law.’

‘The team members have an in-depth knowledge of a variety of areas of specialisation.’

‘Professional high-end service.’ 

‘The team has the necessary knowledge and the know-how to transfer it well. Files are always followed up closely and timings are respected.’

‘Bastiaan Bruyndonckx is an exceptional professional and a pleasure to work with.’

‘Olivia Santantonio has in-depth knowledge and experience of IP court cases.’

‘Bastiaan Bruyndonckx has extensive experience in IP-related subjects.’  

Key clients

Gucci – Balenciaga


Valneva


Phoenix e-mobility


Mc Donald’s


Quorum Analytics


Ferrari


Prada


Chanel


Swatch


Visit Limburg


VBO – FEB


Belfius Insurance


Work highlights


  • Assisting Guccio Gucci and Balenciaga in the filing of their commonly owned Benelux trade mark, incorporating the GG trade mark and the Balenciaga initials.
  • Assisting Valneva in the review and negotiation of the advance purchase agreement for the sale of COVID-19 vaccines with the EU Commission.
  • Assisted McDonald’s in the development of booklets offered in all the McDonald’s restaurants in Belgium, retracing the career of four members of the national football team, the Red Devils.

Monard law, joined by Buyle

Monard law, joined by Buyle‘s ‘responsive and proactive‘ intellectual property team is headed by Daan De Jaeger in Brussels and Stephane Criel in Ghent, and is active in sectors ranging from fashion to automotives. De Jaeger’s practice includes anti-counterfeiting and reputational damage cases, while Criel is strong in advising on trade practices and consumer protection. Sebastien Verva and associate Jan-Laurens Dierickx are also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Daan De Jaeger; Stephane Criel


Other key lawyers:

Sebastien Verva; Willem De Vos; Jan-Laurens Dierickx


Testimonials

‘There aren’t many large Belgian firms practising Belgian law (as opposed to firms mainly focused on EU law) and this is one of the best. They are responsive and proactive.’

‘Daan de Jaeger was excellent and Jan-Laurens Dierickx appeared to perform at close to partner level as well. They were both excellent at providing local insight not only on the local legal scene but also on the subject matter of the dispute and the particular individuals involved. We learned information about the individuals that we would not have known otherwise and which influenced the approach we took.’

Key clients

Rolex


Rolex Benelux


Bottega Veneta


Christian Dior Couture


Tomorrowland (WEAREONE.world)


Napoleon Games


Eurautomat


Astara (Hyundai, Suzuki, Isuzu, SsangYong)


D’Ieteren (Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Skoda)


Grandeco Wallfashion Group


The Belgian Entertainment Association


The Nicklaus Companies


Pog&Co


IPL Loomans Plastics


Nutrisan


May Courier International


Work highlights


  • Representing Rolex in anti-counterfeiting proceedings in Benelux, ranging from small customs procedures to landmark litigation.
  • Assisting WEAREONE.world with a wide variety of intellectual property, privacy, commercial and contractual matters, including the distribution of intellectual rights to new concepts.
  • Assisting many large clients in the automotive industry, such as D’Ieteren, the importer of Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, and others, and Astara, the importer of Hyundai and Suzuki, among others.

Osborne Clarke

Competence across contract negotiations, regulatory advice, and disputes earns Osborne Clarke's IP team a strong reputation among tech, life sciences, and financial services clients. IP rights in data are a growing focus, with team co-lead Benjamin Docquir especially experienced in this area. Counsel Valentin De Le Court joined from DALDEWOLF in September 2021 and leads the team alongside Docquir, bringing niche expertise in matters relating to the Chinese market to the firm.

Practice head(s):

Benjamin Docquir; Valentin de le Court


Other key lawyers:

Laurens Dauwe; Adélaïde Lonnoy


Key clients

Skemmi


OncoDNA


Moliere


Bisnode


Work highlights


  • Assisting an engineering consultancy firm in litigation against a former employee and a competing company with respect to the unlawful acquisition, use and disclosure of the client’s trade secrets.
  • Assisting a life sciences company in ongoing proceedings launched against another company in relation to the violation of the terms of a licence agreement.
  • Assisting a French company active in the distribution of printing equipment and related products on the French market in an ongoing trade secrets case.

Petillion

Independent dispute resolution and IP boutique Petillion was founded in 2017 by Flip Petillion, who has several decades’ experience in both advisory and contentious IP work, including acting in international arbitration. Senior lawyers Jan Janssen and Diégo Noesen are also noted, with Janssen recommended for his broad practice and experience of appearing before EU courts up to the CJEU.

Practice head(s):

Flip Petillion


Other key lawyers:

Jan Janssen; Diégo Noesen


Key clients

Belgian Government (Federal Public Service Economy)


Solvay SA


IKEA (Inter Ikea Systems B.V.)


Beevers Kaas


Raya App, Inc.


Answers Corporation


Swarovski


API Global Trade Ltd.


Belgian Bar (DPA – Diplad CV)


One.org


Namecheap, Inc.


Work highlights


  • Drafted a study and a guide and providing advice to the Belgian Government (the Federal Public Service Economy) regarding alternative dispute resolution mechanisms for IP disputes.
  • Providing continuous advice and representation to the Solvay brand regarding its online protection and enforcement.
  • Assisting Beevers Kaas, the exclusive distributor of Beemster cheese in Belgium, in a distribution case against Dutch supermarket chain Albert Heijn.

Taylor Wessing

Taylor Wessing fields an ‘extremely knowledgeable‘ IP team from its Brussels office, as part of a fully integrated Benelux offering. Practice head Christian Dekoninck is an expert in complex patent litigation, in particular in the pharmaceuticals and life sciences sectors. The team was strengthened with the May 2022 arrival of Patricia Cappuyns, who brings experience in sectors including chemicals and telecoms. Counsel Marie Keup is also noted, leading on trade mark, copyright and design rights matters.

Practice head(s):

Christian Dekoninck


Other key lawyers:

Patricia Cappuyns; Marie Keup


Testimonials

‘The Belgian team at Taylor Wessing is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to anything in the life science sector and IP.’

‘Christian Dekoninck truly stands out.’

‘Straightforward, timely, understandable assessments. Practical service and understanding of our business’s needs.’

Key clients

Ericsson


Viatris


Dana-Farber Cancer Institute


Hotel Hungaria


Pfizer


Holbox


NIPRO


Mamelou


Johnson & Johnson


Cube Sports


Teva


Wilgen


TMP Management


Work highlights


  • Representing Ericsson in patent litigation against Apple, with several patent cases pending, all involving FRAND discussions.
  • Representing Wilgen in a trade mark infringement claim against Levi Strauss Co. in relation to its Red Tab label.
  • Successfully represented Kwantum in a copyright case against Serax before the Belgian Supreme Court, securing three victories in a row.

Van Bael & Bellis

Pharmaceuticals and life sciences are key sectors for the intellectual property team at Van Bael & Bellis, which is co-led by Peter L’Ecluse and ‘extremely knowledgeable‘ counsel Thibaut D’hulst. L’Ecluse’s practice focuses on the interplay between competition and IP law in the life sciences industry, while D’hulst has particular expertise in matters relating to technology and data protection.

Practice head(s):

Peter L’Ecluse; Thibaut D’hulst


Other key lawyers:

Charlotte Reyns


Testimonials

‘Van Bael & Bellis have a very experienced and professional team.’

‘The team offers breadth of expertise, both legal and commercial. Their lawyers respond quickly and deliver an excellent service to their clients.’

‘Thibaut D’hulst and Charlotte Reyns are approachable and extremely knowledgeable. Their expertise and hard work was essential to settling a cross-border dispute.’

Key clients

Canon Europe


ECMWF


FCR Media


Gedeon Richter


Genentech (Roche Inc.)


Hang in Out


Nike


Super League Triathlon


Work highlights


  • Assisting Super League Triathlon in determining and implementing its IP strategy for a novel endurance sports format involving events that are broadcast globally.

Wiggin LLP

Wiggin LLP is especially well regarded for trade mark portfolio management and litigation, which it handles under the combined leadership of IP rights litigator Carina Gommers and international and EU copyright specialist Ted Shapiro. Senior counsel Carl De Meyer and senior associate Eva De Pauw are also recommended, and the firm is also competent in online protection matters.

Practice head(s):

Ted Shapiro; Carina Gommers


Other key lawyers:

Carl De Meyer; Eva De Pauw


Testimonials

‘The team at Wiggin is a pleasure to work with.’

‘Carina Gommers is experienced, knowledgeable and up to date. She is talented and a pleasure to work with.’

‘A team of professionals who are distinguished by years of experience, deep knowledge and an understanding of clients’ business needs, especially in the field of trade marks. They provide on-point advice, and adapt strategies to clients’ situations to help swiftly achieve their business goals.’

‘All the cases Carina Gommers and Eva De Pauw handled went smoothly and were successfully completed. They are great at communicating with clients, which allows for effective cooperation.’

Key clients

Sony Pictures Entertainment


Motion Picture Association (Brussels)


Vlisco


Superdry


Samsung


Tunstall


bet365


Sanluc


Netflix


Rituals


Banijay


Warner


Wargaming


AdaStone Law

Under the leadership of firm co-founder and TMT and IP practice head Agnès Maqua, AdaStone Law provides portfolio management, transactional, and litigation support to clients in sectors ranging from advertising to consumer goods. Managing associate Katrien Maris is also noted, with a broad practice encompassing strategic advice and audit assistance.

Practice head(s):

Agnès Maqua


Other key lawyers:

Katrien Maris


Key clients

Nostalgie and NRJ Belgium


AIR


Politico


Soprism


ACC


UMA


UBA


LN24


Aminata productions


Hostellerie des Paraboles


Wunderman Thompson


Lucy


DDB


Oona


Mutant


Second floor


Whyte Corporate Affairs


Dreamwall


Mountain Vieuw


Coco Donuts


Wild Bishop


Rights Control


NeaCinema


Invineo


Auvibel


Inception brands


Accenture Song


Work highlights


  • Assisting the Formula 1 racing circuit of Spa-Francorchamps with the development of a comprehensive IP strategy, including the strategic filing of trade marks, trade mark oppositions and demand letters.
  • Assisting members of the Association of Communication Companies on the day-to-day IP issues related to their offline and online advertising and marketing campaigns.
  • Assisted American political journalism company Politico with IP-related issues, including copyright, the management of its trade mark portfolio, other trade mark-related issues and contracts, including in-house presentations with regard to IP.

Artes

Founded in 2018 by experienced IP practitioner Nele Somers, boutique firm Artes provides full-service IP support to clients including public bodies and universities, corporates, and high-profile individuals. Somers’s areas of expertise include copyright, trade marks, and trade secrets, while Ben Hermans is strong in litigation and contract negotiations, especially relating to tech.

Practice head(s):

Nele Somers; Ben Hermans


Testimonials

‘The quality and mix of the team is important.’

‘A good blend of young doers and experienced seniors with concrete experience.’

Key clients

Dieter Vander Velpen Architects


Cultuurloket VZW


The Park Playground


Neckermann Belgium


Cazitex


Texfinity


Hawaiian Poke Bowl


Trixxo Exxtra NV


Steve Tielens


Showcom


HEBEA PROFESSIONAL


Elpee Invest BVBA


Jasnarok Lab CommV


Center for sight – Dr. E. Mertens NV


Sophis BV


Dolce Donna BV


Annelies Wouters


Douvier BV / Maurice Verbaet


Gebotec BVBA


Zidis BV


Twice Radio BV / Twice Entertainment BV


ByMi Interior Design


University of Antwerp


De Huisleverancier BVBA


Domus Medica VZW


BestLease BV


HB Antwerp


Aux 3 Fortunes BV


Aexis Medical


Work highlights


  • Assisted an agricultural company in IP infringement and unfair market practices proceedings against a competitor.
  • Advised a well-known audiovisual production company with respect to the renewal of an agreement with a broadcasting company with a contract value of €9m.
  • Instructed by CAZITEX to file an annulment action and action for declaratory relief of non-infringement, as well as an opposition to a competitor’s patent application.

ASTREA

Olivier Van Fraeyenhoven and senior counsel Christine De Keersmaeker head ASTREA CVBA‘s intellectual property team, which provides full-service support to clients in sectors including media, fashion, and automotives. Van Fraeyenhoven has broad experience, while De Keersmaeker is especially recommended for strategic portfolio management.

Practice head(s):

Olivier Van Fraeyenhoven; Christine De Keersmaeker


Other key lawyers:

Thaissa Nuyens


Testimonials

‘In-depth knowledge of the profession.’

‘Thaissa Nuyens differentiates herself by her extensive knowledge of the subject and her ability to immerse herself in it to provide us with the most appropriate and accurate advice.’

Key clients

Greenpan LtD – The Cookware Company Ltd


American Clothing Associates


IP management & Consulting


Aga Rangemaster


Krëfel NV


The Searchers


New Sobelwood


WespEurope N.V.


Studio Straf BV


Sander & Partners


Filip Arickx & Ann Vandevorst


Move to Cure


Mazda


DPG Media


NATAN


Odile Jacobs


Work highlights


  • Assisting Hong Kong-based cookware manufacturer The Cookware Company with respect to safeguarding its worldwide trade mark rights in litigation proceedings in Belgium.
  • Assisting American Clothing Associates of the River Woods clothing brand with the strategic protection, management, and exploitation of its IP, aiming at growing the IP and business value of the company.
  • Assisting Studio Straf with the protection of its IP worldwide.

CAPE IP Law

Established by Véronique Pede in 2016, Ghent-based boutique CAPE IP Law is particularly strong in litigation, with experience in patent litigation, unfair competition cases, and injunctions, extending to an appearance before the CJEU. Senior associate Camille Vansteenkiste is also noted, with experience in cross-border disputes and contract drafting and negotiation.


Practice head(s):

Véronique Pede


Other key lawyers:

Camille Vansteenkiste


Testimonials

‘Highly qualified, inventive, and responsive.’

‘Extremely pleasant to work with. Very flexible when it comes to unforeseen problems.’

Key clients

Renson


Guardiar


Brewery L. Huyghe


Arteco


Ecolab (CID Lines)


Louis De Poortere


Royakkers Explore


HVD


Europlasma


Bematrix


Televic


Altachem


Work highlights


  • Acting on behalf of ‘t Brugs Beertje in a high-profile trade mark infringement case and subsequent appeal proceedings.
  • Initiated injunction proceedings on behalf of Afinco against Colruyt for the infringement of Afinco’s Malheur trade mark by Colruyt’s Majeur trade mark.
  • Initiated injunction proceedings on behalf of HVD against Loventi for the infringement of HVD’s design and copyright of a waffle iron support and of unfair competition law.

Eubelius

Contentious work is a core strength of Eubelius‘s IP and IT practice, which has experience in notable patent and trade mark litigation before the enterprise and appeals courts. Pieter Callens heads the team, and has additional expertise in matters relating to unfair competition and tech.

Practice head(s):

Pieter Callens


Testimonials

‘The team acts quickly and accurately and does everything possible and necessary to optimally defend the interests of its clients.’

‘Pieter Callens can rely on his in-depth legal knowledge and long experience to analyse problems and remedy them in the most appropriate way.’

‘Strong subject knowledge, good mix of young and experienced people, very motivated.’

‘Excellent knowledge of IP-related matters and ability to translate that knowledge into sound advice for the client.’

Key clients

Roger Hodgson and Harmonic Management


EPI Interim Company


Decolef


Vaskon


Belgian State


Savic


Brouwerij Roman


Dimex


Confortluxe


Balta Group


Work highlights


  • Representing the Belgian State in litigation before the Dutch-speaking division of the Enterprise Court of Brussels against Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, which claims that the Belgian State wrongly rejected its application for a supplementary protection certificate.
  • Representing Savic in litigation before the Dutch-speaking division of the Enterprise Court of Brussels against Slovenian company Plana S d.o.o. and Belgian company Petsolutions relating to the design right and copyright infringement of cat litter boxes.
  • Representing Decolef Lux, the manager of the WorldTeam Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl cycling team, in all matters relating to intellectual property rights and portrait rights.

IP Porta

Sint-Martens-Latem-based boutique IP Porta assists clients in both advisory and contentious matters, with notable capabilities in ADR. The team is led by ‘skilled specialistsKaren Ongena and Laurence Hubert, who each have broad experience across copyright, trade marks, design rights, software, and patents, with Hubert also a qualified mediator.

Practice head(s):

Karen Ongena; Laurence Hubert


Other key lawyers:

Michael Kinyentama


Testimonials

‘IP Porta is a boutique firm that focuses on intellectual property and GDPR. The advantage of that approach is that the entire team is focused on and specialised in these matters. The firm has a close relationship with all its clients and you really feel that you are important. The right team member is involved in the right matters, with the right balance between acting independently and getting help from Karen Ongena.’ 

‘Great team spirit. Reachable. Reactive.’ 

‘IP Porta is very punctual, direct and on the ball. They get to the bottom of the matter and don’t leave anything to chance. They are very combative and pull out all the stops to make things work in their client’s favour.’

Key clients

Brouwerij De Graal


Notebaert


Vanheede Environment Group


N-Vorm


DB2 Value Creation


Allinox


SwissSleep / Slaapadvies


Renson Ventilation


AvioVision


Pro-Duo


Work highlights


  • Represented brewery De Graal in ex parte descriptive seizure measures on the basis of the client’s trade mark directed against customs in order to identify the brewers of a copycat beer product, and then in trade mark infringement proceedings against the brewers/sellers.
  • Represented school furniture design company Dox in copyright and design rights disputes with competitors copying Dox’s original designs.
  • Represented SwissSleep/Slaapadvies in a copyright and unfair competition case.

Linklaters

Linklaters‘s intellectual property team handles the IP aspects of high-value transactions, including portfolio acquisitions and licensing. Consumer sector specialist Pieter Van Den Broecke heads the practice, with notable support from managing associate Tom De Coster.  The firm is particularly well regarded by financial services and technology sector clients, and has additional expertise in contentious proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Pieter Van Den Broecke


Other key lawyers:

Tom De Coster


Testimonials

‘Our experience with the Linklaters IP team, and in particular Pieter Van Den Broecke, was first-rate in terms of legal skills, the ability to find practical solutions, negotiation skills and the ability to look for win-win situations for both parties, and availability. On this last point, I would like to flag that, for one matter, we only called Pieter on a Friday for a negotiation that then took place over the weekend.’

Key clients

AXA S.A.


CGG S.A.


RTL


Vewd Software Holdings Limited


MVVP

Entertainment, fashion, and advertising are key sectors for MVVP‘s intellectual property practice, which is strong across contentious and non-contentious work. Herman Croux, Peter Marx, and Olivier Sasserath lead the team, with specialisms in design and plant variety rights, the sports sector, and the music and media industries, respectively.

Practice head(s):

Herman Croux; Peter Marx; Olivier Sasserath


Key clients

Cassina


Poltrona Frau


Rosas


A Private View


SABAM


Globall Concept


Walking the Dog


Wiels


Pierstone

Data and technology are core areas of focus for Pierstone, where the ‘highly professional‘ IP team advises on issues including copyright, trade marks, and trade secrets. The practice is led by Patrice Vanderbeeken, who has ‘an excellent command of tech law‘, and Alain Strowel, a longtime IP and IT expert.

Practice head(s):

Patrice Vanderbeeken; Alain Strowel


Other key lawyers:

Erika Ellyne


Testimonials

‘The team combines deep expertise across all disciplines of importance in IP with an entrepreneurial and very proactive approach to interactions. They think ahead and are able to outline all the issues, but in a pragmatic and solution-oriented way.’

‘Highly professional team with Patrice Vanderbeeken an absolute expert in the field.’

‘The team is knowledgeable, hands-on, pleasant to work with, and provides high-quality advice combined with a practical approach.’

Key clients

Les Deux


Crosswise


Geroba


Eurofir


Animal Kingdom


Blue Storcks


Bitkom


Sevic Systems SE


OPI


Polette


ZF Wind Power


Ziehl-Abegg


Datawords


Memnon


Bouygues Telecom


The Anne Frank Fund


Solvay SA


Federal Public Service for Economy (FPS Economy) – Belgian Government


Smith & Nephew


Apple Inc.


Bitkom.org


Microsoft


Github


Toyota EU Headquarters


Work highlights


  • Provided an expert opinion to defend Apple’s position on the application of private copying levies with regards to tethered downloads in the cloud.
  • Represented Danish clothing company Les Deux in trade mark infringement proceedings against a Belgian clothing store.
  • Assisted the Anne Frank Fonds in a dispute over the copyright of a specific version of the Diary of Anne Frank, involving two separate proceedings in Belgium and the Netherlands.

time.lex

A niche firm focused on IP, IT, data, and privacy, time.lex advises on the IP aspects of transactions and represents clients in disputes concerning copyright, trade marks, patents, and designs. The team is headed by Frederic Debusseré, Geert Somers, and Edwin Jacobs, and has additional experience in consultative policy development work.

Practice head(s):

Frederic Debusseré; Geert Somers; Edwin Jacobs


Testimonials

‘Good in-depth knowledge.’

‘An IP, IT and privacy boutique, where all team members focus on one of those fields. They are the real specialists with an in-depth knowledge of the field.’

‘Frederic Debusseré is nice and flexible to work with. He has a practical approach because of his comprehensive knowledge and experience.’

Key clients

Port of Antwerp


Luminus


Katoen Natie


Netalux


Qeos


Flemish Institute for Archives


De Machine


Move To Happiness


Protime


Work highlights


  • Assisting the Port of Antwerp as preferred law firm for all intellectual property-related matters.
  • Representing Shasta in a patent infringement lawsuit.
  • Advising De Machine on the intellectual property rights in an animation-driven commercial.