Mr Ignace Vernimme > Stibbe > Brussels, Belgium > Lawyer Profile

Stibbe advises players in the industry spanning sports associations, media platforms, record labels and broadcasters on an array of contentious and advisory matters. The firm has also developed a strategic focus on the fast-growing gamification sector. TMT specialist Erik Valgaeren heads up the practice; his varied portfolio of work incorporates advice on pre-employment background checks and compliance with the Electronic Communications Act. Sports law expert Elisabeth Matthys frequently handles litigation involving discrimination issues and anti-doping rules. Publishers rely on Ignace Vernimme for informed counsel on diverse trade mark and copyright issues.

Stibbe complements its focus on national and multi-jurisdictional IP litigation with advice on matters such as IP structurings and technology transfers. Patent, trade secret, and copyright mandates are notable areas of strength for the team. Team co-head Ignace Vernimme‘s broad IP expertise is prized by clients from a varied spectrum of sectors ranging from the pharmaceuticals space to the fashion industry. Fellow co-head Philippe Campolini frequently handles patent and trade mark litigation for clients in the life sciences and medical devices industries. Drafting IP clauses in contracts is a staple of Louis Bidaine‘s practice.

The IP and life sciences team at Stibbe works closely with the firm’s public law department to advise on regulatory issues affecting pharma companies and other key players in the healthcare sector. Recent highlights have ranged from representing clients in disputes with the Belgian pricing authorities, to assisting with the development of clinical trials. Ignace Vernimme and Philippe Campolini are the key senior names to note.

The team at Stibbe handles the full gamut of regulatory issues relating to hospitals, EU co-promotion agreements, and cases concerning public procurement contracts. Practice co-head Ignace Vernimme is known for his longstanding experience of representing clients before regulatory authorities, including the Belgian Medicine Agency and the Belgian Pharmaceutical Association, while co-head Philippe Campolini primarily focuses on patent litigation and joint research agreements. Louis Bidaine has a great deal of experience in handling multinational patent disputes, in addition to a wide array of non-contentious matters, including rebates, marketing strategies, and promotional practices.