Portolano Cavallo’s group, whose work includes trade mark infringement and enforcement matters linked to deepfake-driven scams, advises on copyright disputes, regulatory compliance, and content-related negotiations. Ernesto Apa focuses on civil proceedings involving alleged infringement where free speech and AI-generated content defences arise. Francesca Ellena manages patent-related conflicts within broader IP mandates. The team advises clients across the food, entertainment, tech, and consumer product sectors, and also handles Italian landmark image rights matters. Lydia Mendola and Chiara Marchisotti left the team in 2026.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- I would have to say the people understand our needs well, are very responsive, and you always get the feeling they are putting you first as a client.
- Portolano is distinguished by its deep sector expertise in life sciences combined with a strategic, commercially focused approach. The team handles complex, multi-jurisdictional patent litigation, delivering holistic IP solutions rather than siloed advice. Portolano has a proven track record. Its collaborative, client-centric service and global reach ensure clarity and continuity for clients operating in highly regulated markets.
- Maria Balestriero is an outstanding lawyer with exceptional technical expertise in intellectual property and a strong strategic mindset. She combines deep knowledge of complex patent issues with a practical, solution-oriented approach that clients truly value. Her ability to anticipate challenges and deliver clear, commercially focused advice sets her apart. Maria is also highly collaborative and responsive, making her a trusted advisor in multi-jurisdictional matters. Francesca Ellena brings analytical strength to every matter she handles. She gets to grips with difficult concepts quickly. Her attention to detail, combined with her proactive and client-focused attitude, ensures that coordination projects run smoothly and efficiently.
- ‘Excellent team with very good knowledge of best practices. Pragmatic approach. ’
- ‘The partners monitor cases and are always up to date on them. This ensures excellent communication between those working on the cases and facilitates easy discussion of the strategies to be implemented with all those in charge.’
- ‘Really responsive, practical, and commercially minded.’
- ‘Ernesto Apa has always been capable of finding solutions, allowing him to deal with new/innovative business projects involving IP.’
- ‘In addition to very high-level technical expertise, they deeply understand business and are capable of dealing with innovation.’
Other key lawyers
Ernesto Apa; Francesca Ellena