Firms To Watch: Intellectual property

Established in January 2023, Odvjetnicko drustvo COLIC DOROTIC d.o.o.'s IP practice is led by Luka Čolić, who handles matters concerning the registration and application of trade marks, in addition to the transfer of IP rights.

Intellectual property in Croatia

Vukmir & Associates

Praised for its ‘deep knowledge and experience’, Vukmir & Associates houses a standout IP department, adept at advising clients in high-stakes mandates across the CEE region. The firm’s strengths cover the full range of IP matters, including the protection, litigation and enforcement of trademarks, designs, patents and copyrights, in addition to IP advisory work. A ‘great lawyer and visionary’, founder, managing partner and IP expert Mladen Vukmir co-leads the team alongside Carla Biancotti and Mirjana Jurišić, who regularly represent clients in trademark prosecutions, protection mandates, clearances, and the full range of patent matters. Ivan Ćuk, advises clients on the protection of designations of origin, in addition to handling related disputes before the European Courts, is another key contact in the group.

Practice head(s):

Mladen Vukmir; Carla Biancotti; Mirjana Jurišić


Other key lawyers:

Ivan Ćuk; Aleksander Bijelic; Lidija Gepert


Testimonials

‘The team members are very dedicated and competent, and have proved to be client-oriented, providing effective opinions and advice with a pragmatic approach.’

‘We have built up good working relationships with several of the team members. They provide excellent complex legal advice based on deep knowledge and experience in the field of IP.’

‘Vukmir Law Firm has a great team of lawyers and experts who complement their knowledge to the benefit of their clients. They are superbly able to handle complex and sophisticated matters and make them manageable and easy to understand.’ 

‘Mladen Vukmir is a great lawyer and visionary. Carla Biancotti is an excellent team leader.’

‘Dedicated person per project, according to the nature of the subject. Honest information about outcome probabilities and level of expertise needed.’

‘A significant effort to understand the client’s needs.’

‘The team is very capable, knowledgeable on any IP-related subject and respects their clients and needs.’

‘The people we work with from Vukmir & Associates are all capable, providing an elaborate explanation on any topic.’

Key clients

The World Bank


Podravka d.d.


Teva Pharmaceutical Industries


Pliva Hrvatska d.o.o.


Mars Incorporated


CEFTA


Burberry Limited


HUZIP – Croatian Performers’ Rights Collecting Society


Janssen Biotech


Njuskalo.hr


Jamnica plus d.o.o


OMOLAB KOMUNIKACIJE d.o.o.


Adidas International


Renault S.A.S.


The North Face Apparel Corp.


McDonald’s Corporation


Johnson & Johnson


Nike Innovate C.V.


Visa Europe


Reebok International ltd


Klimaoprema d.d.


TOP SPORT EVENTS d.o.o.


INETEC – Institute for Nuclear Technology


MicroBlink / Photomath


Galderma


Maritim Hotelgesellschaft mbH


Metamorfoza d.o.o. (Museum of Illusions)


Carpmaels & Ransford


Work highlights


  • Advised CEFTA on a cross-border project titled CEFTA Intellectual Property and Related Rights 2021-03, objective of which was to contribute to enhancing the competitiveness of the CEFTA Parties by supporting regional economic integration and removal of trade barriers related to intellectual property rights
  • Advised the World Bank in the project dedicated to enhancing Croatia’s technology transfer framework.
  • Represented a major hotel group from Germany in relation to trademark infringement and unfair competition case against a hotel operator in Croatia.

Divjak Topic Bahtijarevic & Krka

Counting domestic and multinational corporations among its key roster of clients, Divjak Topic Bahtijarevic & Krka offers a one-stop shop IP practice, handling both contentious, non-contentious and advisory mandates. The team is also well-placed to advise on the IP-related elements of M&A transactions. Olena Manuilenko leads the team and frequently handles matters concerning copyright, trade secret and IP enforcement, while Ema Menđušić Škugor assists with trademark prosecution cases and copyright disputes.

Practice head(s):

Olena Manuilenko


Other key lawyers:

Ema Menđušić Škugor


Key clients

Entain


Google


Heineken


Japan Tobacco International


Possehl Digital


Pozavarovalnica Sava


V4 Holding


PETOŠEVIĆ

The ‘highly skilled and professional’ IP team at PETOŠEVIĆ advises domestic and multinational clients on a wide range of cross-jurisdictional matters, including patent and trademark prosecution and enforcement mandates. Representing clients in IP disputes is another key strength of the practice. Practice head Ivan Kos handles the full range of IP cases, including clearance, prosecution and trademark enforcements. Operating from the Brussels office, healthcare and pharmaceuticals specialist Anamarija Stančić Petrović advises on matters concerning data exclusivity, licensing, and market authorisation for medicines and medical devices.

Practice head(s):

Ivan Kos


Other key lawyers:

Anamarija Stančić Petrović


Testimonials

‘The team is highly skilled and professional.’

Law firm Vukina & Partners Ltd.

The ‘highly specialised’ practice at Law firm Vukina & Partners Ltd. acts for major domestic clients on contentious trademark infringement matters, as well as advising on terms and conditions, privacy policies and bad faith claims. Sanja Vukina and Mislav Vukina jointly lead the team, handling a broad range of IP-related corporate and commercial matters. Key sectors of expertise include retail, pharmaceutical, IT services, and food and beverages.

Practice head(s):

Sanja Vukina; Mislav Vukina


Testimonials

‘Vukina & Partners helped me navigate through every IP task in a very thorough manner, reminiscent of the best lawyers in the country.’

‘Mislav Vukina has made navigating intellectual property law much less tumultuous than it could be. He leaves no stone unturned.’

‘I think that a high level of work ethic, politeness, a professional approach to work with the impression that they give their maximum, and all with pleasant communication is what individuals we work with stand out.’ 

Key clients

Akashic Record Crate d.o.o.


Chips Way d.o.o.


KONZUM plus d.o.o.


Bruketa&Žinić&Grey d.o.o.


Atlantic Group d.d.


Item d.o.o.


Biovega d.o.o.


PIK Vrbovec plus d.o.o.


Fine Krpice d.o.o.


LSH Inovacije d.o.o.


Vasiljev d.o.o.


Feromihin d.o.o.


David Pejić


Inovacijski centar Nikola tesla (ICENT) – Nuqlues Deep Tech Incubator


Action Service & Distributie B.V.


Batarelo Dvojkovic Vuchetich Law Firm LLP

Batarelo Dvojkovic Vuchetich Law Firm LLP provides an ‘outstanding service reflecting its in-depth experience and industry knowledge’. The team handles trademark application proceedings for a wide range of domestic and international clients, in addition to representing clients in related disputes. With a focus on trade secrets and contentious transactional matters, Vladimir Batarelo leads the team and ‘stands out for his IP knowledge’, while Laurenz Vuchetich and Marko Bohaček advises on software trademark infringement cases and the protection and transfer of IP rights.

Practice head(s):

Vladimir Batarelo


Other key lawyers:

Laurenz Vuchetich; Marko Bohaček


Testimonials

‘Marko Bohaček is very quick and down to earth. Known for his innovative approach to problem-solving. He consistently thinks outside the box, exploring creative solutions that others might overlook.’

‘Vladimir Batarelo uses his in-depth knowledge and experience to deliver what is expected, on time and on budget. He is easy to work with.’

‘Marko Bohaček is very proactive and responsive to client needs.’

‘Laurenz Vuchetich is very knowledgeable and always one step ahead. His attention to detail is excellent.’

‘BDV’s IP department provides an outstanding service reflecting its in-depth experience and industry knowledge. The team consists of copyright and trademark specialists who are always open to discussion and attentive, and they proved to be adept at cross-border cooperation.’

‘Vladimir Batarelo stands out for his IP knowledge, especially in the field of open source software. He has a creative approach to difficult legal issues and often finds unconventional yet effective solutions.’

‘This practice’s unique strengths lie in its agility, expertise in trademark disputes and its client-centric approach. One of the standout qualities of this practice is its team’s responsiveness and proactiveness.’

‘Laurenz Vuchetich is agile and good strategist. ’

Key clients

SOFA IT


Sartura d.o.o.


Gideon Brothers d.o.o.


Calimero Limited


Franck Snogoo


Good Game Global


Adria Dental Group d.o.o.


Tribute Brand


Franck d.d.


Merit Media Int. d.o.o.


57hours, Inc


Workmarkt d.o.o.


Jade ALM


Birra Peja JSC


Joy Fair d.o.o.


Work highlights


  • Advised SOFA IT in regard the full line of IP protection assessed before the launch of the platform, and assisting with regulating licensing terms in the applicable terms of use and other pertaining documents.
  • Advising Gideon Brothers d.o.o. in the protection of its IP domestically and internationally and in contract negotiation regarding the licensing and protection of their IP with specifics relating to open-source software, background technology, and different aspects of onboard and off-board solutions.

MATEKOVIĆ & Partners Law Firm LLC

MATEKOVIĆ & Partners Law Firm LLC acts for domestic and international clients in trademark registration proceedings, frequently before the European Union Intellectual Property Office, while also handling matters concerning copyright infringement and license agreements, as well as handling multi-jurisdictional patent projects in the pharmaceutical sector. Krešimir Matekovic, Ivan Sabljić, Dora Adžić, and Laura Mateković collectively lead the team.

Practice head(s):

Krešimir Mateković; Ivan Sabljić; Dora Adžić; Laura Mateković


Testimonials

‘The team is very knowledgeable, quick in responses and as a client you will always feel secure and provided with all relevant advice needed.’

‘Krešimir Mateković is highly skilled, able to predict all possible scenarios and therefore able to provide the best possible solution for the client. Solution-oriented and quickly adaptive to business needs and mindset.

‘Ivan Sabljić is a highly motivated, all-around lawyer with a can-do attitude and willingness to support a client in the most efficient way.’

Key clients

Croatian Radiotelevison


Novo Nordisk A/S


Valamar Riviera Jsc.


Wolf Media Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Advised Valamar Riviera Joint Stock Company, in the trademark registration proceedings before EUIPO (European Union Intellectual Property Office).
  • Advised NOVO NORDISK A/S, global pharmaceutical company, in the cross-European patent project intended to protect the intellectual property of our client.
  • Advised Wolf Media Limited liability company in the trademark registration proceedings before EUIPO (European Union Intellectual Property Office).

Porobija & Spoljaric

Praised for its ‘profound knowledge’ in the TMT and entertainment sectors, Porobija & Spoljaric handle a range of IP matters, with notable experience in the registration and protection of IP rights before the EUIPO, in addition to handling copyright cases, trademark disputes and IP transfer mandates. Managing partner Marko Porobija advises on IP issues relating to cyber attacks, and co-leads the team alongside Luka Porobija and Suzana Cesarec Nöthig.

Practice head(s):

Marko Porobija; Luka Porobija; Suzana Cesarec Nöthig


Testimonials

‘This firm possesses an exceptional understanding of both the technology industry and the specific needs of clients within that sector, arguably surpassing any other legal entity in Croatia. This profound knowledge facilitates effortless and straightforward conversations regarding any potential requirements or issues.’

‘Marko Porobija and Luka Porobija transcend the conventional role of attorneys, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of law, technology, and client needs. Their amalgamation of skills, coupled with innate creativity and innovative thinking, is likely the primary reason why the overall quality of service consistently exceeds my expectations.’

‘The team are collaborative, easy to approach, easy to understand and thorough.’

Key clients

Occam d.o.o.


Cratis d.o.o.


CoreDev Solutions d.o.o.


TelTech d.o.o.


Pixmole Technologies


Trustap Development d.o.o.


Work highlights


  • Advising DC North on issues related to data protection pertaining to its newest data center project.

Šavorić & Partners

Šavorić & Partners acts for domestic and international clients on a range of IP-related issues, particularly before Croatian courts and the State Intellectual Property Office of the Republic of Croatia. Managing partner Boris Šavorić jointly leads the team alongside Boris Babić, regularly handling copyright matters, IP cancellations and patent grant procedures. The team is also sought for its advisory work in administrative procedures, as well as trademark disputes and litigation cases. Natalija Babić is another key contact in the group.

Practice head(s):

Boris Šavorić; Boris Babić


Other key lawyers:

Natalija Babić


Key clients

Decathlon


Zalando


Invera Equity Partners


IKEA


Kompare.hr


Work highlights


  • Advising Decathlon in relation to a settlement agreement with Collective Management of Copyright and Related Rights in dispute regarding payment of the fee for the public use of music (copyright works) on Decathlon premises.

Vidan Law Office

Vidan Law Office’s ‘dedicated’ practice advises a wide range of domestic and international clients on contentious and non-contentious trademark mandates, with additional expertise in re-branding and trademark annulment procedures. Hrvoje Vidan leads the team with ‘decades of experience’ in handling copyright cases before the Croatian and EU authorities, while Petra Tolj advises clients on GDPR matters and Ivona Stričak assists on IP infringements and disputes.

Practice head(s):

Hrvoje Vidan


Other key lawyers:

Petra Tolj; Ivona Stričak; Nika Petic


Testimonials

‘Ivona Stričak and her willingness to explain all questions and necessary actions in detail should be highlighted.’

‘Very dedicated team with excellent quality to clients.’ 

‘Hrvoje Vidan is a trustworthy partner with decades of experience.’

‘All team members are well qualified, professional, devoted to work and real team players. Thanks to that, the team is capable to understand client needs and to find the best resolution for the concrete case.’

‘Hrvoje Vidan has the best qualifications when it comes to solving complex legal issues, as well as in management, so that their team members may provide the most qualitative legal services. He is focused on solving problems, rather than highlighting all the difficulties that need to be overcome.’

‘Ivona Stričak and Nika Petic are valuable team members, who are proactive and keep the client informed.’

‘This team is always willing to find solutions for sudden and short notice situations.’ 

Key clients

Koncern Bambi A.D. Požarevac


Fructal Živilska industrija d.o.o.


Bionorica SE


Aldi GmbH & Co KG


Josef Manner & Comp. AG Austria


Richard Schneider


Fight Channel / Ineomedia


greenmobility invest GmbH


Vlahovic Group LLC


HT – Hrvatske telekomunikacije d.d.


Mox Media


Hofer


Generali Investments


Work highlights


  • Advised Koncern Bambi A.D. Požarevac on full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious trademark matters.
  • Advised Fructal Živilska Industrija d.o.o. on trademark matters, protected designations of origin and protected geographical indications.

Wolf Theiss

Wolf Theiss sits within the firm's broader corporate and commercial law department, regularly advising inbound investors and companies on IP-related matters, including patent infringement cases, and boasting demonstrable experience in the TMT, entertainment and retail sectors. Luka Tadić-Čolić leads the team and Sara Pavlović assists with trademark-related issues, in addition to the IP elements of M&A transactions.

Practice head(s):

Luka Tadić-Čolić


Other key lawyers:

Sara Pavlović


Key clients

Cambridge Mobile Telematics


Jagex


Booster Fuels


Work highlights


  • Advising Cambridge Mobile Telematics on IP/IT aspects of its acquisition of a Delaware telematics corporation Amodo and its wholly-owned subsidiary in Croatia.
  • Advising Jagex on the IP transfer agreements with third party contributors to the computer game developed by our client.
  • Advising Booster Fuels on reshaping its commercial relationship with a key supplier of software development services based in Croatia, with a strong emphasis on the intellectual property aspects of the cooperation agreement.

Živko Mijatovic & Partners

Specialising in counterfeit goods investigations, boutique firm Živko Mijatovic & Partners regularly handles the portfolio management of routine trademark protection issues. Praised as the ‘trademark queen of Croatia’, Ivana Knezevic advises domestic and international clients on a range of IP rights and unfair competition matters, while Ivana Ervacanin assists on patent work and Dina Slunjski advises on copyright and trade secret mandates.

Practice head(s):

Ivana Knežević


Other key lawyers:

Ivana Ervaćanin; Dina Slunjski


Testimonials

‘Their professionalism is outstanding.’

‘Ivana Knežević is the trademark queen of Croatia.’