DLA Piper’s IP practice spans trademark, design, and copyright litigation, portfolio management, and cross-border enforcement. The practice is led by Niels Mulder, who brings IP knowledge and litigious experience across all court levels to clients in the fashion and luxury goods, food and beverage, technology, and entertainment sectors. Sophie Gauquier-Rutgers, who offers ‘unwavering commitment’, is a further key contact. Lorena van den Berg, recognised for her capabilities in trademark, design, copyright and advertising law, joined the team in 2024, while Rutger Stoop departed in May 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Proactive approach, long-standing experience in IP.’
- ‘Niels Mulder has very deep knowledge in IP-related topics and has an outstanding proactive approach.’
- ‘For us, the combination of expertise, innovation, and client-focused service makes DLA Piper a unique and invaluable partner.’
- ‘What sets DLA Piper apart from other firms is its innovative mindset and ability to anticipate issues before they arise. They do not limit themselves to answering questions but actively come forward with creative suggestions.’
- ‘I highly recommend the team at DLA Netherlands, noting their excellence and comprehensive capabilities across all facets of Intellectual Property law. They manage our trademark portfolio seamlessly.’
- ‘Sophie Gauquier-Rutgers and Niels Mulder set the team apart with their unwavering commitment. They offer an exceptional level of personal service that is invaluable when facing urgent infringement or opposition deadlines.'
Key clients
- Bacardi & Company Limited
- Burberry Limited
- Conair Corporation
- Converse Inc.
- GB WFC France SAS
- Intercontinental Exchange Holdings, Inc.
- Lotus Bakeries NV
- Nintendo of America, Inc. / The Pokémon Company International
- P.K. Benelux B.V.
- Prosus Services B.V.
- Simon & Schuster, LLC
- Societe Jas Hennessy & Co.
- Spin Master Toys UK Limited
- Taxolutions B.V.
- Unilever plc
- Catom
- Pop Mart
- GAMEDIA B.V.
- Glock GmbH
- Ralph Lauren
Work highlights
Advised Unilever on the dual-track sale of iconic brands Conimex and Unox/Zwan.
Successfully litigated a trademark case for Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) in a global dispute against Ice Labs, as part of which we obtained an EU-wide injunction for the client.
Represented Lotus in a widely reported dispute against competitor Holie Foods in an advertising and trademark litigation.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Niels Mulder
Other key lawyers
Alexander Tsoutsanis; Sophie Gauquier-Rutgers; Noa Naaman; Lorena van den Berg