
Pestalozzi steers clients through complex patent litigation as well as trade mark, design, trade secrets and licensing matters, advising across the pharmaceuticals, biotech, consumer goods, luxury and advanced engineering sectors. Practice head Lara Dorigo is regarded as ‘exceptionally knowledgeable’ in patent and trade mark disputes, commercial IP agreements, technology transfer agreements and strategic branding work. Michèle Burnier and Alexandra Bühlmann are also key contributors to the practice. The group was bolstered in January 2025 by the arrival of Prager Dreifuss AG's Joëlle Marciano, who plays a significant role across both contentious and transactional mandates, following the departure of Thomas Legler in December 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Our experience working with Pestalozzi has been consistently positive. Their team is approachable, efficient and highly professional. They are well-connected both locally and internationally.’ \n‘Lara Dorigo and Michèle Burnier are well known by our team. They are easy to work with, collaborative and focused on delivering the best client service.’ \n‘Top tier in Switzerland for IP matters, with a lot of experience and great teamwork.’ \n‘Lara Dorigo is exceptionally knowledgeable in terms of legal and strategic IP issues, including and in particular litigation, and she has talent in communicating with clients.’ \n‘Michèle Burnier is highly experienced and has a pragmatic, solution-oriented business approach to cases. She is extremely knowledgeable, reliable and responsive in complex and sensitive issues.’ \n‘Pestalozzi is truly outstanding due to its combination of deep expertise and a forward-thinking mindset. What sets them apart is their ability to deliver highly specialised knowledge while remaining flexible and responsive.’ \n'They stand out for their proactive attitude, quick grasp of complex issues and willingness to go the extra mile. Lara Dorigo exemplifies strong leadership combined with a hands-on approach that drives results efficiently.' \n'Alexandra Bühlmann impresses with her sharp insight and dedication, consistently delivering high-quality work under tight deadlines.'
Key clients
- Advance Magazine
- CH Media
- Coca-Cola
- Franz Kaldewei GmbH & Co. KG
- ITV
- Johnson & Johnson
- Karin Herzog
- Lanxess Deutschland GmbH
- Leclanché
- LYNX BV
- McDonald's
- MGI Tech Co., Ltd.
Work highlights
Represented Zentiva in patent infringement proceedings against Bayer regarding Rivaroxaban.
Represented the plaintiffs, Genevant Sciences and Arbutus Biopharma, in patent infringement proceedings regarding Covid-19 vaccines.
Advised Mikron on a trade mark out-licensing deal with United Grinding Group.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Lara Dorigo
Other key lawyers
Michèle Burnier; Sarah Drukarch; Alexandra Bühlmann; Markus Winkler; Joëlle Marciano

