Highlighted as 'a key strategic ally for the protection of intellectual property portfolios', BLP leverages its strong presence throughout Central America to provide clients with a region-wide IP offering. The team advises an impressive roster of global household names from across the pharmaceutical, technology and media sectors on the full range of trademark, patent and copyright issues, from prosecution through to litigation and transactional matters. Other core areas of expertise include data privacy, consumer protection and advertising. The well-regarded Luis Ruiz oversees the practice in Guatemala and Central America, drawing on almost three decades of experience in the field. He is supported by capable senior associates Marleni García, whose areas of expertise include designations of origin, particularly in the food and beverage sector, and Daniela Meza, who has a strong background in the technology industry.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘As an international firm, BLP provides an exceptional and comprehensive service. Its lawyers are knowledgeable and offer an excellent level of care.’
‘BLP has become a key strategic ally for the protection of our clients' intellectual property portfolios. Its team combines deep subject matter expertise with a practical and personalised approach, allowing us to rely on them to manage everything from trademark and patent registrations to defence against infringement and unfair competition. One of its greatest strengths is its regional presence throughout Central America, which allows it to operate as an ideal hub for the protection and management of intangible assets across multiple jurisdictions. This regional coverage gives us the security of having a single point of contact to coordinate IP strategies across different countries, ensuring efficient and consistent execution.'
'BLP's IP team stands out for its ability to offer a responsive service, with clear and well-founded advice that reflects its expertise in the field. Its integration with complementary areas, such as regulatory law and unfair competition, adds significant value to the handling of the matters we entrust to it.’
‘Luis Ruiz is a leading intellectual property expert and a cornerstone of BLP's practice. His extensive experience and strategic vision have allowed us to effectively resolve complex matters on behalf of our clients. Despite his leadership position within the firm, he is always involved in the cases, demonstrating detailed knowledge of each matter we refer to him. In addition to his technical expertise, Luis is characterised by his approachability and availability, which facilitates fluid and efficient communication. Knowing we have such a committed partner gives us the confidence to continue referring intellectual property matters to BLP.'
'Marleni García has always provided us with prompt attention and clear recommendations, demonstrating her extensive knowledge of the field.’
‘They are the best at coordinating matters not only Guatemala, but the entire Central American region.’
Key clients
- Warner Bros. Discovery
- H&M Hennes & Mauritz
- BMI Financial Group
- Sanofi
- Quala Inc.
- BioNTech SE
- Amazon
- Astellas Pharma
- Bedrock Brands
- Dennemeyer
- Apple
Work highlights
Provided comprehensive legal counsel to Quala, a multinational food and beverage company, on publicity campaign agreements and image use licences for a new drink, and continued to manage its entire trademark portfolio in the region, including Panama, Belize and Cuba.
Advised BioNTech on managing its intellectual property portfolio in Guatemala, a strategic jurisdiction for the company's regional operations.
Provided comprehensive legal advice to Amazon on compliance matters related to privacy, data protection and consumer protection in the context of launching "eero", its home/small business WiFi networking products and services, in Guatemala.
Lawyers
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Practice head
Luis Ruiz