Firms To Watch: Intellectual property: Patents

Quatrebarbes Avocats handles matters at the intersection of patent and IT law, advising on international disputes and commercial issues; Nathalie de Quatrebarbes handles a broad range of IP and IT matters.

Intellectual property: Patents in France

Allen & Overy LLP

The patents team at Allen & Overy LLP is well equipped to take on international mandates, handling disputes with ties to Europe, China and the US, with a strong focus on the pharmaceutical and telecoms sectors. Standard Essential Patents (SEPs), Fair Reasonable and Non-Discriminatory (FRAND) disputes and infringement matters form the core of the team’s litigation practice, and the department also advises clients involved in M&A transactions on the IP aspects of deals. Laëtitia Bénard is a leading litigator in the field of pharmaceutical patents and also advises at the intersection of IP and regulatory pharmaceutical law. In addition to his contentious practice, David Por advises on freedom-to-operate and validity matters. Charles Tuffreau is noted for his disputes work.

Practice head(s):

Laëtitia Bénard; David Por; Charles Tuffreau

Testimonials

‘Super team with deep knowledge of IP.’

‘Laëtitia Bénard is a top-notch IP lawyer, renowned for her ability to work hard, creatively and successfully for patent holders.’

Charles Tuffreau is a very capable associate.’

Key clients

Genfit

Europlacer

MGI

Nokia

Procter & Gamble

Pfizer

Samsung

Suez

Organon

Work highlights

  • Advised a Chinese company regarding a dispute against Illumina Cambridge in the field of genetic sequencing.
  • Represented a pharmaceutical and healthcare company in multiple infringement lawsuits brought against numerous generic companies, based on a patent covering one of the client’s products for the treatment of several types of cancer.
  • Representing a multinational technology company in a patent infringement lawsuit brought by an individual against Android.

August Debouzy

August Debouzy is recognised for its patent work in France and Europe, assisting clients with the full spectrum of contentious and transactional matters. Infringement and nullity actions, in addition to appeals and opposition proceedings before the French and European IP offices, form the mainstay of the firm’s patent offering. The team also conducts freedom-to-operate analyses, valuations and is able to assist with licensing agreements and contractual matters. FRAND litigation specialist Grégoire Desrousseaux is adept at advising the telecoms, mechanics and electronics sectors and leads the team alongside François Pochart, who advises clients in the healthcare, pharmaceutical, life sciences, biotech and chemical industries. Promoted to partner in January 2023, Lionel Martin is well regarded for his advocacy before the French courts and EPO.

Practice head(s):

Grégoire Desrousseaux; François Pochart

Other key lawyers:

Lionel Martin; Pierre-Olivier Ally

Testimonials

‘August Debouzy’s teams are very responsive and are able to offer advice from the best experts in a short time.’

‘The AD team has a fantastic knowledge of both French and EPO case law with capability to respond to queries in a detailed, useful and timely manner.’

‘Grégoire Desrousseaux is particularly distinguished by his ability to analyse complex situations and provide relevant advice to his clients. His pragmatism, his open-mindedness, and his perfect knowledge of French jurisdictions allow him to deliver quality advice to his clients, in complete transparency, and to enable them to confirm and implement their strategic choices. From our point of view, he is one of the best in this area in Paris.’

‘François Pochart is very knowledgeable and aware of a client’s commercial objectives when providing his advice.’

‘August Debouzy’s advice offers a double expertise of lawyer and IP advice relevant to the fields of the acquisition of law and the exercise of law. This double skill allows you to activate the best levers in a very fluid way.’

‘Quality advice on intellectual property issues. Good support with competent experts for patent filing.’

‘The practice of litigation in intellectual property with regard to essential patents requires a good knowledge of the ecosystem, the position of the various authorities and the case law in France but also abroad. The team dealing with IP litigation at August & Debouzy has developed this expertise with a good understanding of the issues for the various players and in particular for the European industry.’

‘The legal services provided by this team are very good and can meet the needs of clients very well. At the same time, the team is highly innovative and can provide some unique insights or solutions for patent litigation strategies.’

Key clients

CpK Interior Products

Foubert Papiers Plastiques

K-Fee System Gmbh (Kruger Group)

Nipro

Altirnao Inc

Bricard

Xiaomi

Alcatel Lucent International (Nokia Group)

Alcon

Anthogyr

B.Braun

Brahms

CNRS

Disphar (Nordic Pharma Group)

Epsilon composite

Essilor

Fresenius kabi

HCT Packaging

I.Ceram

Insulet

Laboratoires Majorelle

LFB

L’Oréal

Maia Africa

Medtronic

Novasep

Nuvamid

Suez

Società Italiana Boccole Srl (SIBO)

Teva

Total

Verescence

Wright Medical

Work highlights

  • Assisted Xiaomi against Philips and ETSI in their FRAND dispute over patents essential to LTE and UMTS standards.
  • Defended Teva in a preliminary injunction case launched by Bayer on a patent concerning sorafenib salt for the treatment of cancer.
  • Representing NIPRO in an infringement action launched by Fresenius based on one of its patents covering a dialyser.

Bird & Bird

Bird & Bird‘s patents team is well versed in handling major patent disputes before the French courts, representing clients in facing infringement claims and revocation actions in addition to seizures. Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan leads the team, handling complex European patent disputes for the pharmaceutical, electronics and telecoms sectors, as well as providing advice on non-contentious IP matters. Yves Bizollon is known for his litigation experience, frequently representing food, energy, defence and automotive companies. Laurent Labatte is noted for his expertise in litigation in technical fields.

Practice head(s):

Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan

Other key lawyers:

Yves Bizollon; Laurent Labatte; Claire Bratel

Testimonials

‘Pragmatic, cost-effective patent litigation with specific expertise in pharma litigation for generics.’

‘Anne Charlotte Le Bihan has excellent expertise in generic pharma litigation.’

Key clients

Broadcom

Microsoft

Nexans

Honeywell

Edwards Lifesciences

Nespresso

Baxter

Allergan

ABB Power Grids

Lesaffre

RTE Réseau de transport d’électricité

Keboda

Minakem

Genetec

Rescaset

SATT AST

Inserm

Université de Bordeaux

CHU de Bordeaux

Work highlights

  • Represented Edwards Lifesciences in patent infringement litigation implying the infringement of five European patents covering a transcatheter heart valve.
  • Representing Honeywell in an infringement action initiated by a French company based on a European patent.
  • Represented Nespresso, which has been sued by the company set up by its former CEO, ECC, for patent infringement in relation to capsules for coffee machines.

Casalonga

Casalonga‘s patents team is split into a prosecution and counselling team headed by litigators Olivier Delprat and Jean-Baptiste Lecoeur and French and EU patent attorneys Virginie Martin-Charbonneau and Francis Zapalowicz, and a litigation team led by Arnaud Casalonga, Caroline Casalonga and Marianne Gabriel. These teams, alongside colleagues in Spain and Germany, advise electronics, chemistry and life sciences clients on international patent matters, including French and European patent applications, in addition to validity and infringement cases.

Testimonials

‘Despite the technicality of the patent subjects, the opinions are always very clear, explained so as to be able to formulate pragmatic legal recommendations. Valuable support!’

‘The Casalonga team has been with us for several years and their advice is remarkable. Their application during patent filings is very committed to the strategy of our company.’

‘The relationship with the technical and legal team as well as with the partners is excellent. Always available to receive us as well as to travel urgently for important matters.’

Key clients

Adeo (Leroy Merlin)

Arkema

Auchan

Baker Hughes

BBG Hyline Building Systems

Hyline Building Systems France SAS

Biogaran

Eurecat

GACD

GE Renewable Energy

GE Healthcare

Gestamp Autotech

Groupe Thalgo (Perron Rigot)

Intervet

JCR (EKOI)

Jean Chéreau SAS

L’Oréal

Les Laboratoires Servier France

Lidl

Michelin

Orthopartner

Renault

Safran

Saft Group

Sagemcom

STMicroelectronics

Teréga

TotalEnergies

Vallourec

Zentiva

Work highlights

  • Represented Biogaran in an emergency writ of summons at short notice issued by Novartis on the basis of a patent application not yet granted concerning the drug Fingolimod.
  • Defended Sagemcom against Intellectual Ventures, obtaining two favourable decisions from the Paris Court.
  • Filed several oppositions filed before the EPO for Biogaran in the field of pharmaceutical patents, notably the patent protections for “everolimus” owned by Novartis and “cinacalcet” owned by Amgen.

Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I.

With notable strength in the pharmaceuticals, medical devices and telecoms sectors, Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I. is renowned for its patent litigation practice, before both the French and European courts, where it represents clients involved in infringement matters, revocation proceedings and validity disputes, including supplementary protection certificate (SPC) matters. The team is led by Raphaëlle Dequiré-Portier, known for her experience handling patent litigation for the life sciences sector, alongside Emmanuel Larere and Jean-Hyacinthe de Mitry, who handle contentious and transactional matters.

Practice head(s):

Raphaëlle Dequiré-Portier; Emmanuel Larere; Jean-Hyacinthe de Mitry

Other key lawyers:

Julie Pailhès; Marie-Ange Pozzo di Borgo

Testimonials

‘A great capacity for synthesis, a great understanding of subjects and analysis, and a pugnacity to defend the interests of the client.’

Key clients

i-Team

Retotub

Roquette

Kenwood

Genmab

Amgen

U-Shin

Bristol Myers Squibb

Johnson&Johnson

Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GmbH

Beckman Coulter

Celltrion

Curis

Gensight

Haulotte

Radiometer

Schaeffler

Work highlights

  • Defending BMS in a revocation proceeding brought by Teva to invalidate a patent and the corresponding supplementary protection certificate.
  • Representing JDE as the plaintiff in a patent infringement claim brought in 2018 against Belmoca BVBA and its French distribution subsidiary Sodastream France.
  • Assisting ResMed in potential patent infringement litigation against Panthera regarding an intra-oral device developed by the client to treat snoring and sleep apnea.

Jones Day

Jones Day‘s IP team coordinates with the firm’s German and UK teams to handle pan-European patent matters, performing freedom-to-operate analyses in addition to handling infringement proceedings and seizures before the French courts. On the commercial front, the firm advises clients on the creation, development and defence of IP assets, with a particular strength in supporting clients in the life sciences sector in hard and soft IP matters. The team is jointly led by Thomas Bouvet, a highly experienced patents, trade secrets and plant variety rights litigator, and Edouard Fortunet, who advises on soft IP matters, including the IP aspects of IPOs.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Bouvet; Edouard Fortunet

Testimonials

‘This is the best team in France for pharma and biotech patent matters. Their level of sophistication is unrivalled.’

‘Thomas Bouvet is the leading patent litigator in France.’

Key clients

Lufthansa Technik AG

SCHWIND eye-tech-solutions GmbH

Eligo Bioscience

Sanofi

Infineon Technologies AG

ProGeLife SAS

Knauf Insulation GmbH

Amplitude

Daiichi Sankyo

Work highlights

  • Represented Lufthansa Technik in its action for infringement against Astronics AES, Panasonic Avionics and Thales Avionics regarding a European patent on a power supply device for use in aircraft cabins.
  • Defended SCHWIND against an action brought by competitor Carl Zeiss Meditec on the basis of three European patents in connection with SCHWIND’s flagship surgical laser.
  • Represented Eligo Bioscience as a defendant in patent infringement proceedings initiated by SNIPR Biome.

Linklaters

Linklaters‘s IP team excels in multi-jurisdictional patent disputes, often representing major clients collectively in infringement actions, including in regard to SEPs. It is also active in advising on the registration and defence of patents and employee inventions. The team, led by experienced healthcare, mobility and telecoms litigator Pauline Debré, frequently works alongside the firm’s other practice groups to assist with M&A and capital markets transactions, in addition to antitrust issues. Gaëlle Bourout assists pharmaceutical clients and Jean-François Merdrignac advises on enforcement strategies.

Practice head(s):

Pauline Debré

Other key lawyers:

Gaëlle Bourout; Jean-François Merdrignac

Testimonials

‘Key strengths and capabilities: managing complex situations, global view in cross-border environments, sharp analysis and strategic advice to clients for business decisions, delivery to budget. Linklaters Paris has been advising us on a strategic dispute which requires close coordination, notably with their competition and dispute resolution teams.’

‘The team has really impressed on diversity – particularly with exceptional women lawyers. They are efficient, strong and persuasive writers and strategists.’

‘Pauline Debre gives pragmatic, excellent advice and is incredibly responsive.’

‘Very responsive, pragmatic, competent.’

‘Pauline Debré is very competent, a great negotiator with a pragmatic approach.’

‘Innovation: active on diversity & inclusion. The firm is very active on D&I initiatives and organise a lot of training, programs and communication around D&I. On Gender, they have a women’s leadership program and reverse mentoring program to ensure that more women gain broader access to the partnership. On disabilities they have a partnership with the non-profit association “Droit comme un H” which help students to access law firms and in-house positions. On Race & Ethnicity, they have a mandatory customised on-line training and also have some in person training with actors and theatre scenes.’

‘Jean-François Merdrignac is very knowledgeable and very clear in his argumentation.’

‘Pauline Debré is the best patent litigator of the place. She is competent and experienced. Her judgment is very pertinent. She is an excellent team leader, keeps the direction and always makes things move forward.’

Key clients

Sanofi

Regeneron

GlaxoSmithKline plc

ViiV Healthcare

Intel Corporation

Seoul Semi-Conductor

Plastic Omnium

EureKing

Nestlé Health Science

Work highlights

  • Represented Sanofi and Regeneron in a patent infringement action launched before the Paris First Instance Court by Amgen to prohibit the anti-cholesterol blockbuster drug Praluent.
  • Represented GSK in a patent litigation action launched in France by its joint venture, ViiV Healthcare, against “Biktarvy”, Gilead’s anti-HIV drug launched in Europe in November 2018.
  • Representing Intel Germany in an infringement action relating to a patent essential to the ADSL standards launched by Intellectual Ventures II against internet provider Orange.

Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons is a popular choice for clients in the pharmaceutical industry, working closely with the firm’s IP teams in Europe and Asia to represent clients involved in cross-border patent infringement and revocation actions. In addition to its litigation focus, the firm is increasingly active in commercial IP matters, assisting with the licensing of patents and the setting up of multi-party collaborations. Pharmaceuticals expert François Jonquères advises on patent litigation and ownership issues and leads the team alongside Marina Cousté, whose practice focuses on Europe-wide patent defences. Soft IP specialist Sarah Bailey leads the firm’s IP practice.

Practice head(s):

Francois Jonquères; Sarah Bailey; Marina Cousté

Key clients

Merck KGaA

Dana Farber

United Orthopedic Corporation

Neo Medical

Genoscience

Généthon

Bayer

Idemia

Work highlights

  • Successfully represented Merck KGaA in a patent validity action initiated by a group of patients using Levothyrox.
  • Successfully representing Dana Farber before the Paris Court of Appeal in overturning an INPI decision which had rejected the client’s application for an SPC.

Aramis

Aramis‘s patents team handles a broad range of patents matters, representing major clients in infringement and injunction actions in addition to ownership disputes across Europe. Licensing, R&D and consortium agreements are among the key mandates in the department's workload. Practice head Benjamin May is an experienced litigator with a strong record representing well-known pharmaceutical clients, while Louis Jestaz provides support on both contentious and non-contentious matters.

Practice head(s):

Benjamin May

Other key lawyers:

Louis Jestaz

Testimonials

‘Benjamin May: coordinator – mastery of procedural timing and anticipation of work at different stages.’

Key clients

Enyx

Zentiva

Belmoca

Fresenius Medical Care

Allergan/AbbVie

Arcadophta

BVI France

INRIA

Amphenol Socapex

Angus International

Tereos

Eiffage

Work highlights

  • Successfully defended Enyx’s interest in a patent dispute against its competitor Novasparks on high-speed trading technologies, both in France and in the US.
  • Represented Zentiva in a major pan-European patent dispute over Eli Lilly’s Alimta drug.
  • Advised Belmoca on pan-European patent litigation related to a Nespresso-compatible coffee capsule initiated by Douwe Egberts.

Armengaud Guerlain

Primarily handling contentious matters, Armengaud Guerlain represents SMEs and blue-chip companies, acting both for plaintiffs and defendants in international patent disputes, including those regarding employee inventions and trade secrets. Led by Stéphane Guerlain, Catherine Mateu and Marguerite Higgons, who was made partner in May 2022, the practice provides commercial patent advice, including the filing of applications and licence agreements.

Practice head(s):

Stéphane Guerlain; Catherine Mateu; Marguerite Higgons

Other key lawyers:

Guillaume Klasen

Testimonials

‘I am particularly familiar with their services in patent litigation, of which they are one of the best specialists in France, with in-depth legal knowledge and extensive experience supplemented by the talent of their professionals. They know how to work very well with industrial property attorneys to form particularly efficient teams of attorneys in patent litigation.’

‘Catherine Mateu is very efficient and effective, including on delicate procedural issues. Stéphane Guerlain is also very efficient and effective, with an excellent capacity for synthesis and technical understanding. Marguerite Higgons is also talented, as is their collaborator Guillaume Klasen.’

Key clients

Merck Millipore

Estar – Medical

Castorama/Kingfisher

IMV Technologies

WIKO

NOVAPET

TTK

Telecom design

Perrein

Work highlights

  • Represented Telecom Design in litigation over an employee’s invention.

Dentons

Dentons is sought after by IT, insurance and pharmaceutical-sector clients for advice on patent matters and assistance with the negotiation, drafting and licensing of research agreements and related contracts. Under the leadership of patent litigation specialist Loïc Lemercier, the practice is active in representing clients in court, bringing infringement claims and invalidity proceedings, while also defending clients when they are accused of patent infringement. Isabelle Leroux represents clients involved in international patent litigation, and is also well versed in licensing and trade secrets matters. In addition, the team works alongside French customs to ensure that infringing goods are stopped prior to entering the market.

Practice head(s):

Loïc Lemercier

Other key lawyers:

Isabelle Leroux; Tom Blanchet

Testimonials

‘Responsiveness, ability to move quickly without losing sight of strategy, pricing and have a balance of profiles and specialisations.’

Key clients

Galderma

ALPHA10X

Septodont

Lactalis

Goliath France (Zuru)

MyRobotics

Plásticos Faca

SORARA Zhejiang Zhengte Co., Ltd.

Home Medical Devices

Inria and Mr. Teman

CNRS (Centre Natiobal de la Recherce Scientifique)

Al.Chi.Mia. S.R.L.

Ophta France

Zama

Work highlights

  • Advised Groupe Lactalis on various aspects of patent law, including on its patent protection strategy, as well as the drafting of contracts for patent protection.
  • Represented Septodont in connection with an investor’s claim regarding a patent on a key client’s product.
  • Represented Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) in a dispute with its former director of scientific research regarding additional remuneration that should allegedly have been paid for the exploitation of several patents relating to lithium batteries.

DTMV & Associés

DTMV & Associés is renowned for its patent litigation offering, supporting pharmaceutical, automotive and telecoms clients with disputes in France and Europe. Thierry Mollet-Viéville is a highly regarded litigator with strong experience in the pharmaceutical field, while Pascal Lefort represents fashion and luxury clients before the French courts. Eléonore Gaspar, Thomas Cuche and Laurine Janin-Reynaud are also noted for their contentious and transactional patent practices. Grimaud Valat joined the firm in February 2022.

Practice head(s):

Thierry Mollet-Viéville; Pascal Lefort; Eléonore Gaspar; Thomas Cuche; Laurine Janin-Reynaud; Grimaud Valat

Testimonials

‘Thomas Cuche has enormous capabilities not only in pleading but also in drafting large briefs. He is always informed about the latest developments in the matter.’

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP

The Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP team is well versed in handling cross-border patent disputes, collaborating with the firm’s international network to represent companies in a broad range of sectors before French and European courts, in addition to providing support on transactional matters. Patent litigator Stanislas Roux-Vaillard leads the team and advises pharmaceutical clients on international litigation. The team also includes firm chair Marie-Aimée de Dampierre, David Taylor and Jane Seager.

Practice head(s):

Stanislas Roux-Vaillard

Other key lawyers:

Marie-Aimée de Dampierre; David Taylor; Jane Seager

Key clients

Eli Lilly

Dürr Systems

Hollister

Astronics

GE Renewable Energy

Work highlights

  • Collected €28m in provisional damages for Eli Lilly due to the launch of a generic version of its oncology product Alimta.
  • Successfully represented Dürr in the French aspects of a patent infringement case initiated by a French competitor.
  • Representing Hollister in litigation in relation to patent infringements in appellate proceedings against its main competitor in the urology market.

Pinsent Masons LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP‘s sector-focused patents team has experience in handling complex international projects, assisting with technology transfers and trade secrets in addition to representing major clients in pan-European patent disputes. Experienced litigator Emmanuel Gougé leads the practice, focusing on the medical, electronics, automotive and aerospace industries. Virginia de Freitas advises on European patent disputes, while Jules Fabre assists with R&D agreements in the biotech sector.

Practice head(s):

Emmanuel Gougé

Other key lawyers:

Virginia de Freitas; Jules Fabre

Key clients

Zentiva

Plastic Omnium

Scania

Accord Healthcare

Teva Pharmaceuticals

Landis+Gyr

France Brevets

Expliseat

Global Wheel

Stertil

Precitec

Work highlights

  • Successfully represented Accord in high-profile patent litigation against Sanofi in relation to its generic version of Sanofi’s prostate cancer treatment Jevtana (cabazitaxel).
  • Represented Global Wheel in pan-European patent litigation covering France, Germany and the UK against Hutchinson.
  • Successfully defended Zentiva in an application for a fast-track preliminary injunction from Novartis against sales of Zentiva’s generic version of fingolimod, Novartis’ multiple sclerosis treatment (Gilenya), on the basis of alleged patent infringement.

Taliens

Through the additions of co-head and experienced litigator Grégoire Triet and pharmaceuticals specialist Tougane Loumeau in January 2022, Taliens has further strengthened its patent offering, adding to the domestic and international disputes expertise of co-head Jean-Frédéric Gaultier. The team also offers commercial patent advice, assisting clients with the drafting of licence agreements and technology transfers.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Frédéric Gaultier; Grégoire Triet

Other key lawyers:

Tougane Loumeau

Testimonials

‘Excellent professionals at the forefront of innovation in the field of IP.’

‘Jean-Frédéric Gaultier is an excellent lawyer, and in particular an excellent patent litigator. He is able to prepare files under very tight time constraints. He pleads very well. And finally, is also looking for satisfactory solutions for its clients, including with out-of-court settlements.’

‘Bringing the best of boutique practice, they know their client industries inside and out, provide incisive and precise recommendations and creative solutions.’

‘Jean-Frédéric Gaultier is an absolute dream to work with, responsive, thoughtful and delivers exactly what the clients need.’

Key clients

Johnson & Johnson

ZTE

ArcelorMittal

Envases

Sagemcom

Facebook

Lazer Sport

Marin’s International

Tractel

SPPM

Scanavo

Bausch Health

Work highlights

  • Defended ZTE against patent infringement actions by non-practising entities, including one against Intellectual Ventures and two adverse to WSOU.
  • Advised Facebook’s AI research lab on collaboration agreements and R&D projects with French and foreign research institutions and universities.
  • Advised a global pharmaceutical group on its appeal against the French Patent and Trademark Office’s decision to refuse a supplementary protection certificate.

Bignon Lebray

Bignon Lebray‘s IP practice advises clients on a range of issues and provides representation in patent infringement claims and validity and nullity actions, where it acts on behalf of start-ups, SMEs and multinational corporations in addition to public bodies and investment funds. Practice head Barbara Bertholet advises life sciences clients on licensing, collaboration agreements and patent litigation in France and the EU.

Practice head(s):

Barbara Bertholet

Key clients

NG Biotech

Sandoz

Dedienne Santé

Etablissement Villeton

Vicat

Systosolar

Work highlights

  • Defended Sandoz as a generic drug manufacturer within the framework of an SPC infringement claim.
  • Advised Systosolar, a French company specialised in the distribution of solar panels, against a Chinese supplier.
  • Advised Dedienne Santé, part of MENIX Group, as defendant in a patent litigation introduced by Amplitude, a competitor.

De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés

Under the leadership of Louis de Gaulle, Julien Horn and Francine Le Péchon-Joubert, the team at De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés handles a broad range of patents matters, working alongside the firm’s M&A and tax lawyers where relevant to provide comprehensive IP assistance. Patent licensing and research agreements, in addition to joint ventures, are areas the team frequently advises on. A particular strength of the firm is in supporting the life sciences sector, where the practice group acts in patent disputes, representing clients seeking to protect their patent portfolios, both in France and in the EU.

Practice head(s):

Louis de Gaulle; Julien Horn; Francine Le Péchon-Joubert

Testimonials

‘A very good firm which provides thorough and high-quality legal advice.’

‘Francine Le Péchon-Joubert is very responsive and gives good quality advice.’

‘Real advice on IP and patents policy, remarkable research work.’

‘A high quality of listening and commitment to understanding our context to propose and adapt the strategy.’

‘Louis De Gaulle – very happy with his work and sound advice.’

‘Very reactive and precise.’

Key clients

Energy Observer Developments

Européenne de Biomasse

Alstom Transport

B&F

Gallagher

Hoya Surgical GmbH

Île-de-France Mobilités

Pierre Fabre

Tyron Runflat Ltd

Verkor

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

With a strong focus on the pharmaceuticals sector, Herbert Smith Freehills LLP represents its clients before French and EU courts in cross-border litigation, including patent enforcement and infringement claims, in addition to nullity actions. The team in the Paris office works closely with its counterparts in the London and Milan offices to support clients with patent claims in multiple jurisdictions. It is regularly instructed by companies seeking to file patent applications and develops protection strategies once patents have been granted. The team is led by Alexandra Neri, an experienced IP, TMT and data litigator. Frédéric Chevallier represents pharmaceutical clients in cross-border disputes and is also valued for his regulatory advice.

Practice head(s):

Alexandra Neri

Other key lawyers:

Frédéric Chevallier; Suzanne Carayol

Key clients

Sanofi

Work highlights

  • Advising Sanofi in relation to one of its products, Aubagio®, for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, including on a patent revocation action initiated by Teva.
  • Advising Sanofi in relation to one of its fastest growing products, Jevtana®, for the treatment of prostate cancer, including three preliminary patent injunction proceedings against Teva, Accord Healthcare and Ever Pharma.

Reed Smith

Reed Smith‘s patents team is experienced in handling international patent disputes, working closely with the firm’s US IP practice to assist clients with the enforcement of existing patents against infringers before courts and IP offices in France and the EU. The team also leads settlement negotiations for its clients in the telecoms, medical and life sciences sectors, which it supports with the filing of European patent applications. The team is jointly led by specialist litigator Marianne Schaffner and Thierry Lautier, who is qualified both as an attorney-at-law and a European patent attorney.

Practice head(s):

Marianne Schaffner; Thierry Lautier

Testimonials

‘Excellent team, very easy to get along with. They have grown significantly in the last two years and have now a very effective team, with partners having great client skills and excellent litigators.’

‘Thierry Lautier has many qualities, due to his dual qualification and his knowledge of patent litigation. His strategic approach to litigation is a definite asset.’

‘Marianne Schaffner stands out. She is an excellent litigator and is the force behind the growth of the team in the last years.’

ADVANT Altana

ADVANT Altana acts for clients in the pharmaceutical, chemicals, mechanical and electronics industries in a range of patent-related issues. Under the leadership of Armand Aviges, Pierre Lubet and Jean-Guy de Ruffray, the firm represents companies in infringement claims, searches and seizures, and ownership claims. On the non-contentious side, it is equipped to assist in patent ownership transfers, licences and co-ownership agreements. The management of patents pertaining to inventions made by employees, in addition to patent audits, are further areas of strength for the team.

Testimonials

‘An easy team to communicate with. Excellent knowledge of the law, always willing and able to go the extra mile in order to achieve the best results for clients.’

‘Jean-Guy de Ruffray has a very sharp mind, is very flexible and creative and has excellent knowledge of the law.’

‘A stable, reactive and very attentive team. Strong ability to understand the issues in our sector of activity.’

Key clients

Elephant Vert

Proclinic

Xerys

Work highlights

  • Advised Elephant Vert on the IP aspects of the acquisition of Lipofabrik.
  • Advised Proclinic, backed by Miura Partners, on the acquisition of EXOTEC Dentaire.
  • Advised Xerys on the sale of Cryo Pur to listed group Française de l’Energie.

CMS Francis Lefebvre

With a particular focus on the life sciences, electronics and mechanics sectors, CMS Francis Lefebvre frequently handles patent infringement litigation and associated claims for damages, as well as assisting in disputes between employers and employees in relation to the ownership of patents. The team around practice head Jean-Baptiste Thiénot also handles research and development contracts, assignment and licence agreements and portfolio audits. Anne-Laure Villedieu, who focuses on data privacy matters, heads the firm’s IP department.

Practice head(s):

Anne-Laure Villedieu; Jean-Baptiste Thiénot

Testimonials

‘The team is attentive to client needs. This allows them to give practical, business-oriented advice.’

‘Jean-Baptiste Thiénot: accessible, attentive, knows how to meet even tight deadlines and the needs of his clients.’

‘Multidisciplinary team, able to assist in all areas of intellectual property. Very good skills in patent and trade mark law.’

‘Jean-Baptiste Thienot is an excellent professional in patent law, with extensive experience in negotiation and litigation strategy.’

Key clients

E-Diagmed

Trilogiq

Amosan Distribution

Amosan Petrochemicals

Green Source

DLA Piper

DLA Piper‘s IP team works with the firm’s offices around the world to assist clients in managing their patent portfolios. The practice advises clients on IP licence and distribution agreements, contracts and rights audits, while on the litigation side, it is instructed on enforcement, infringement cases and contractual issues. Team lead Frank Valentin supports TMT and life sciences clients in developing and protecting their patents, including representing them in anti-counterfeiting campaigns.

Practice head(s):

Frank Valentin

Other key lawyers:

Cédric Meiller

Testimonials

‘Advice adapted to the challenges, even if it means not pushing for the patent when it is not the right way.’

Key clients

Laboratoires Vivacy

Goodwin

Goodwin‘s patents practice is centred around transactional work, supporting life sciences clients with the management of their patent portfolios, licensing and collaboration agreements and the IP aspects of M&A deals. Practice head Marie Fillon joined the firm in September 2021 and leads in patent litigation, in addition to providing transactional advice.

Practice head(s):

Marie Fillon

Testimonials

‘Very responsive and available team. Quick and effective understanding of the issues in a complicated legal context. In-depth knowledge of the activities and history of the company.’

‘Marie Fillon has in-depth knowledge of the activities and history of the company. Involvement in files and responsiveness. Rigour.’

‘In-depth knowledge of our needs and the partners with whom we negotiate contracts. Ease and agility with a real business spirit (and not too “legal”), in particular Marie Fillon whom we followed to her new firm.’

‘Marie Fillon is an excellent young partner who is building a strong team to help her. She is one to watch!’

‘Excellent IP transactional for start-ups and scale-ups in the life sciences field.’

Key clients

Affluent Medical

ArchiMed

Ascendance Flight Technologies

Astorg Partners

Biomunex Pharmaceuticals

BNP Paribas Développement

Bpifrance

Cathay Capital

Compin

Diabeloop

DNA Script

DTA Medical

Exegy

Genfit

Go Capital

Graegis Pharmaceuticals

HRA Pharma

Jeito

Kurma Partners

Johnson & Johnson

Lowercarbon Capital

Protera

Qynapse

Robocath

Sofinnova Partners

SpineVision

Tikehau Capital

Lavoix

Lavoix is active in handling patent matters in France and the EU, advising start-ups and life sciences companies on patent infringement and invalidity claims in addition to industrial property disputes. Camille Pecnard leads the team, advising on contentious and transactional patent and trade secrets matters.

Practice head(s):

Camille Pecnard

Other key lawyers:

Pierre-Emmanuel Meynard; Martin Simonnet

Testimonials

‘For France, we have trusted Lavoix for many years. Lavoix provides very reliable and professional services to the complete satisfaction of our customers. The team is very knowledgeable and smart, with deep technical skills and expertise.’

‘Camille Pecnard is an outstanding litigator, highly recommended for patent and trade mark matters. He is used to handling complex cross-border disputes and always offers a thoughtful strategy and clear advice. Camille is very responsive, creative and flexible in his thinking.’

‘The Lavoix team in Paris responds to our requests in a fast and professional manner, quickly provides an overview of the challenges to be met and gives a reliable overview of the budget and the deadlines to be expected. Our customers, whom we therefore gladly recommend to Lavoix, appreciate it very much.’

Key clients

Nantes Université

Naval Energies

AcelorMittal

Lavazza Pro

Estée Lauder

Inserm/Inserm Transfert

Condor

Naval Group

Panthera

PEACCEL

Work highlights

  • Represented Université de Nantes and PEACCEL in an infringement action relating to a European patent initiated by a competing Californian company.
  • Assisted Estée Lauder in a patent ownership claim action brought before the Paris courts by sub-contractors in the field of biology and cosmetics.
  • Represented two entities of the ArcelorMittal group in relation to a patent infringement case launched by one of their former partners before the Paris court of first instance.