Dechert‘s IP practice group is reputed for its work in the life sciences, servicing prominent clients like Johnson & Johnson. The firm regularly acts as lead counsel in high-profile patent disputes and related class actions. Katherine Helm, the newly-appointed head of the patent litigation group, is a seasoned IP attorney with extensive experience in pharmaceuticals operating out of New York. Martin J Black is a Philadelphia-based trial lawyer recognised for his strong track record as a defense attorney and appellate advocate. Anish Desai has joined the firm.
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Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Key clients
- AVEO Pharmaceuticals
- Baxter Healthcare Corporation
- Biogen MA
- Eli Lilly & Co.
- Endo Pharmaceuticals
- GlaxoSmithKline
- Johnson & Johnson
- Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
- Padlock Therapeutics
- Royalty Pharma
- Sanofi SA
- Several of the top pharmaceutical companies in the world
Work highlights
Defended a patent litigation filed by Halozyme alleging Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC’s subcutaneous pembrolizumab product infringes fifteen of Halozyme’s U.S. patents.
Acted as lead counsel on behalf of Eli Lilly & Co. in a patent dispute with Endocyte/Novartis over a billion-dollar cancer radiotherapy treatment for late-stage prostate cancer patients.
Represented Johnson & Johnson (and subsidiaries) in a purported indirect purchaser class action related to a novel challenge to the acquisition/enforcement of IP covering Stelara, its largest drug.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Katherine Helm; Martin J. Black
Other key lawyers
Anish Desai