Leveraging its position as an international law firm, A&O Shearman handles the full gamut of patent issues for multinational corporations across a wide variety of industries. The team is led by an erudite Paris-trio consisting of Laëtitia Bénard, David Por, and Charles Tuffreau. Bénard advises on litigation and patent portfolios, patent validity, and freedom to operate issues, and specialises in advising clients within the life sciences, pharmaceutical, and high-technology industries. Por handles pan-European, high-profile litigation for telecommunications and electronics clients, while Tuffreau is a representative before the European Patent Office handling cross-border litigations, preliminary injunction proceedings, and infringement seizures, and leverages his prior qualification in engineering. Cyril Riffaud is also a key name at the firm supporting the team.
Intellectual property: Patents in France
A&O Shearman
Responsables de la pratique:
Laëtitia Bénard; David Por; Charles Tuffreau
Autres avocats clés:
Cyril Riffaud
Les références
‘A Patents team very familiar with the characteristics of the health sector and the specificities of pharmaceutical patents. This allows them to make very good recommendations regarding the behavior to expect from opponents and the strategies to adopt. They also proposed an innovative approach in the litigation strategy.’
‘Laëtitia Bénard: excellence and finesse of analysis; innovation in litigation strategy.’
‘Charles Tuffreau: manages to make particularly complicated subjects accessible to non-experts without compromising technical and legal excellence. A rare alliance.’
Principaux clients
MGI
Nokia
Samsung
Air Liquide
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Nokia on the French part of their worldwide battle against Oppo/OnePlus.
- Advised Bayer on the French aspects on one of its blockbusters.
- Advised a global pharmaceutical and healthcare company on defending their rights upon its SPC covering the combination of sitagliptin and metformin for the treatment of diabetes.
August Debouzy
With extensive and wide-reaching experience that includes complex patent infringement litigation before the UPC, IP offices, and French courts, the team at August Debouzy has a strong footing within the industry and also handles contractual and licensing matters, as well as patent applications. The firm is lauded by clients for its deep industry expertise, which is evidenced in co-head Grégoire Desrousseaux's previous experience as an engineer, bolstering his notable ability to handle complex litigation, including FRAND and oral hearings before The Hague and in Munich courts. Heading the department alongside Desrousseaux is François Pochart
, who specialises in advising clients active in the healthcare, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, biotech, and chemical industries, and Lionel Martin, who specialises in aiding clients in the telecommunication, energy, medical devices, and automotive industries. Julia Cohen-Solal and Pierre-Olivier Ally are also key names at the firm. Abdelaziz Khatab left the firm in 2024 to join Simmons & Simmons.
Responsables de la pratique:
Grégoire Desrousseaux; François Pochart; Lionel Martin
Autres avocats clés:
Julia Cohen-Solal; Pierre-Olivier Ally
Les références
‘A great and creative firm.’
‘The leading firm in patents on the Parisian market. Without a doubt the team with the most experience ahead of the UPC among all its competitors. An elite team.’
‘Lionel Martin and Pierre-Olivier Ally are part of the new talented and creative guard that will make waves in the years to come. Superstars.’
‘Simply the most powerful, experienced and well-staffed patent litigation team in the French market. Compared to competitors: very business driven and truly strategic advice.’
‘Lionel Martin, François Pochart and Grégoire Desrousseaux combine excellent legal and technical advice, decades of experience and creative strategy.’
‘The team is made up of both lawyers and industrial property consultants, which allows it to be versatile internally.’
‘François Pochart leads his teams with kindness and gets more involved in the files that require it.’
‘Grégoire Desrousseaux: incomparable positioning in France. Lionel Martin: following in his footsteps.’
Principaux clients
Bioarte
Centripetal Networks, Inc.
Christopher Stothers
Cocoon Factory
Enel Green Power SpA
France Développement Electronique
IC Pillar LLC
La Patisserie Numerique
Look Up Space
MICHELIN
Metex Noovistago
SHARKNINJA
TEOXANE
Unilever
Abbott France
Acrelec
Aldes Aeraulique
Altirnao France
Anderton Castings
Armines
B. Braun Medical SAS
Beckmann Coulter Inc.
BIC Violex
BIOMERIEUX
Bugali
Ceva Santé Animale
Clarience Technologies
CMA-CGM
Construction Industrielle de la Mediterranée-CNIM
Danone Trading BV
Disphar International BV
Ecosystem
Enedis
Engie SA
Essilor I
Foubert Papiers Plastiques
Fresenius Kabi
Genvia
Gilson lnc.
Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP
Halliburton
Hanshow Technology
HCT Packaging Inc
Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
Hewlett Packard
Immo Digital Services
INOBIAN SA
Insect Pest Control
Insulet Corporation
Kruger Gmbh & Co. kg
La Chape Liquide
Laboratoire I. Ceram
Laboratoires Alcon
Lupin Inc.
Maïa Africa
Medtronic
MG International – Maytronics France
NICOLS
Nipro Corporation
Nokia
Novasep
Orchidées Constructions
Pellenc
Peugeot Citroën Automobiles
POOLSTAR
Prodesa Medioambiantes
SAFT
Saint Gobain
Beyond Aerospace
Smart Trike Mnf. Pte. Ltd
SNCF
Sofibel
Soletanche Freyssinet
Somfy SAS
Steamone
Suez Environnement
Sunited Group
Suzuki
TDI ISOLATION ANTILLES
Tenaris
Teva Pharmaceutical
Thales
Theramex
TKH France SAS
TotalEnergies
UBEES
Unicaps
Valeo S.A.
WB TECHNOLOGIES
Wright Medical
Xiaomi
Ypso-Facto
Principaux dossiers
- Representing Abbott France, one of the subsidiaries of the Abbott group, against Dexcom in four infringement actions brought before the UPC : three before the Paris Local Division and one before the Munich LD.
- Representing Hewlett Packard in an infringement action before the UPC Paris Local Division against Lama France.
- Representing ICPillar in an infringement action brought before the UPC Paris Local Division against various entities of the ARM group.
Bird & Bird
With an impressive record for handling complex multi-jurisdictional patent litigation before foreign courts, French courts, European IP offices, and the UPC, Bird & Bird is a well-respected industry player who caters to some of the world’s most emblematic conglomerates in industries not limited to software development, life-sciences, healthcare, electronics, food and beverage, and automotives. The team is led by Anne-Charlotte Le-Bihan, who in addition to being an erudite litigator, is also a soft IP expert and prolific negotiator. Co-head and Lyon-based Géraldine Arbant handles regional work. Described by one client as a ‘one-stop shop’, the team is supported by Thierry Lautier, who leverages his previous experience as an engineer to additionally advise on IP contracts and the IP-related aspects of corporate deals, including M&A. The ‘dynamic and inventive’ Alexandra Schellino is another noted name in the team.
Responsables de la pratique:
Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan; Géraldine Arbant
Autres avocats clés:
Thierry Lautier; Alexandra Schellino
Les références
‘Thierry Lautier’s broad expertise makes him a one-stop shop for IP/patent intensive matters, including commercial negotiations. Thierry is very accountable on any matters he is in charge of, and the team is innovative in its way of working, Thierry being super reactive and easy to be in contact with.’
‘The team is responsive, available, and makes itself available to its clients.’
‘Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan: brilliant. Alexandra Schellino: dynamic and inventive.’
Principaux clients
Edwards Lifesciences
Honeywell
Nexans
Microsoft
Broadcom
Zodiac
Lesaffre
Minakem
Baxter
Allergan
Keboda
Nestlé
Dexcom
Akwel
Leko Labs
Nespresso
SATT AST
Greenerwave
PAI
Newmat
Orphalan
I.G.B. S.r.l.
Principaux dossiers
- Represented Dexcom in three patent litigation cases against Abbott before the Paris Local Division of the UPC regarding European patents covering glucose monitoring devices.
- Represented Edwards Lifesciences in a major patent dispute against Meril on the infringement of various European patents covering a transcatheter heart valve.
- Represented Nestlé in several patent litigation cases against K-Fee in France.
Cabinet Schertenleib
Spearheaded by dual English-French qualified Denis Schertenleib, who has a background in physics and molecular neurobiology, the team at Cabinet Schertenleib has a wealth of experience handling complex litigation before the EPO, French courts, and the UPC. The firm has a specific penchant for advising large multinational pharmaceutical companies on their medical patent infringement, validity, and enforcement issues, and the group also handles filings. Marc Lauzeral is also a key name in the team, as well as Ombeline Degrèze-Péchade; both are seasoned litigators with significant pharmaceutical expertise.
Responsables de la pratique:
Denis Schertenleib
Autres avocats clés:
Ombeline Degrèze-Péchade; Marc Lauzeral
Les références
‘Excellent firm, with a great specialisation in IP. Also has understanding of UK/US clients.’
‘Excellent individual lawyers.’
‘The Cabinet Schertenleib team stands out in life sciences and pharmaceutical patent litigation, with an impressive team of experts in this field. Their strength lies in the rare combination of both legal and scientific knowledge, allowing them to handle complex cases more efficiently than other firms.’
Principaux clients
Recor Medical Inc. & Otsuka Medical Device
Viatris
Neuraxpharm
Sandoz
Zentiva
Sodel
Zentiva
C-KORE
Filorga
HLD
Fill-Med
TCL
Bio-Rad
Polpharma
Principaux dossiers
Casalonga
With a balanced split between patent prosecution, counselling, and litigation, Casalonga offers its clients a comprehensive and international service that handles the full spectrum of issues including complex litigation before French courts, national courts, EU IP offices, and even foreign courts and rightfully earns its place as a revered player in the industry. The firm’s patent law offering is split by industry, with a mechanics team headed up by Olivier Delprat and Julien Thon. The electronics and ICT team is co-headed by Ghislain de Tremiolles, Francis Zapalowicz, and Augustin Le Tourneau. Finally, Gwennhaël Le Roy and Virginie Martin-Charbonneau chair the chemistry team while Jean-Baptiste Lecoeur handles the pharmaceuticals and life-sciences work. Jürgen Neugebauer heads the firm’s Munich office, while Arnaud Casalonga, Caroline Casalogna, and Pascaline Vincent manage the firm’s patent litigation team.
Responsables de la pratique:
Arnaud Casalonga; Caroline Casalonga; Olivier Delprat; Julien Thon; Marianne Gabriel; Jean-Baptiste Lecoeur; Augustin Le Tourneau; Virginie Martin-Charbonneau; Ghislain de Tremiolles; Francis Zapalowicz; Jürgen Neugebauer; Gwennhaël Le Roy; Pascaline Vincent
Les références
‘The Patents team at Casalonga is solid and efficient. During several patent disputes in the pharmaceutical field, we were able to appreciate the quality of the work and discussions with the team at Casalonga.’
‘The team is very competent and available at all times.’
‘High level of experience and knowledge. Very serious. Thorough work. Trustworthy.’
‘Very good cooperation between CPI and lawyers, which allows them complete mastery of the case, both on the technical and legal level. This very good cooperation offers them several advantages: – the firm’s lawyers acquire mastery of the technical elements (in the sense of the engineer’s technique) of the case – this complementarity allows them to be comfortable with the different types of client interlocutors, whether it is the legal department, the IP department, or the engineers who are experts in the field.’
‘The team with which our company has always been responsive and available. The case handled was complex (technical, number of parties) and unusual. The Casalonga team defended a division into phases of the case which is unusual in France, and obtained this division.’
‘We worked particularly with Marianne Gabriel and Pascaline Vincent (lawyers) and Francis Zapalowicz (CPI). They all knew how to have a very good relationship with all the people involved in this case in our company.’
‘I note the good contact between the lawyers and our engineer specializing in the field. The human quality of the interactions seems to me to be superior to what I have sometimes had the opportunity to see in other firms.’
Principaux clients
Adeo Group
Arkema
Auchan
Baker Hughes
Biogaran
Canon
Cellectis
Chereau
COFINAIR Group
Diam Bouchage
Dianafood
Elis
Etandex
Ethnodyne
Eurecat
Fayat Group
GE Renewable Energy & GE Healthcare
Hisense
Implantica Marketing Limited
Institut Gustave Roussy
Innov’Action
JCR (Ekoï)
Jean Chéreau SAS
Kriptic pharmaceuticals limited
L’Oréal
MCPP
Michelin
MSI France
Ortho Partner
PolTreg
Renault
Rio Tinto
Safran
Sagemcom
Servier – Les Laboratoires Servier France
SKF
Solvay
STMicroelectronics
Teréga
Terumo
Thalgo Group
TotalEnergies
Université de Genève
Vallourec
Villard Médical
WAFF
Zentiva
Principaux dossiers
- Defended SAGEMCOM against Intellectual Ventures in one of the most important FRAND matters in the telecom industry.
- Represented BIOGARAN in several oppositions filed before the EPO in the field of pharmaceutical patents, notably the patents protecting “Everolimus” and its medical uses owned by Novartis and patents protecting pharmaceutical compositions based on a product called “Cinacalcet” owned by Amgen
- Represented BIOGARAN in several litigations in the field of pharmaceutical patents and SPCs, with in particular, an emergency writ of summons at short notice.
Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I.
The team at Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I. is an industry heavyweight noted for handling a wide variety of work for its impressive client roster, which includes major players in biotech, life sciences, automotive, technology, and pharmaceutical industries. The firm is led by a trifecta of lawyers: Raphaëlle Dequiré-Portier, an expert at litigation in life sciences, technologies, and mechanics, Emmanuel Larere, a biotech, telecoms, and electronics specialist, and Jean-Hyacinthe de Mitry, who in addition to his contentious expertise advises on drafting and negotiating IP-related or technology transfer agreements. Marie-Ange Pozzo di Borgo is a stanchion for the firm and specialises in SPC matters, as well as CJEU and French Supreme Court work.
Responsables de la pratique:
Raphaëlle Dequiré-Portier; Emmanuel Larere; Jean-Hyacinthe de Mitry
Autres avocats clés:
Marie-Ange Pozzi di Borgo
Les références
‘Very high quality work – great involvement in fully understanding the file.’
‘Raphaëlle Dequiré-Portier: great involvement in the files.’
‘Very strong team for French IP litigation – including oral and written advocacy. Particularly recommended for life sciences and pharma – including SPCs.’
‘Emanuel Larere and Raphaëlle Dequiré-Portier – superb advocates and leaders. Marie-Ange Pozzi di Borgo – provides excellent support, one to watch.’
‘All are excellent at explaining (in English) the subtleties of the French system, and constructing the best arguments for the client.’
‘The team combines an in depth knowledge of the law and practice before the French IP courts, together with a creative streak that enables the team to propose creative approaches to navigate unprecedented legal situations. The team is able to work across the full scope of the life sciences.’
‘The standard of the lawyers is high throughout the team and junior lawyers are given opportunities to practice their skills in court.’
‘Emmanuel Larere, aside from his unsurpassed experience before the French IP courts, is a very valued contributor as a member of an international team working on cross-border litigation. Emmanuel takes a broad view of both French litigation and how the case he is handling can contribute to the clients international strategy.’
Principaux clients
Meril Life Sciences
Amgen
Boeringher Ingelheim
C.F.E.B. Sisley
Thomson Licensing
Vantiva
Agri Advanced Technologies
BMS
Celltrion
EDF
Heineken
Meril
Ono Pharmaceutical
Resmed
Retotub
Sanofi
Seratec
Teoxane
Tinnus
Principaux dossiers
- Represented BMS in a revocation proceeding brought by Teva, a generic drug manufacturer, to invalidate a patent and the corresponding supplementary protection certificate, which covers the compound apixaban.
- Represented Meril Life Sciences as the defendant in a new pan-European patent litigation filed by Edwards Lifesciences, regarding 5 of its patents on prosthetic heart valves and delivery systems for the implantation of such heart valves.
- Representdd the French company Seratec in a patent entitlement claim action brought against a former partner, Orphalan.
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP
Leveraging its position as a global law firm, the erudite team at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP is noted for having excellent capabilities managing both contentious and non-contentious matters for a roster of clients which includes large multi-billion pharmaceutical and medical companies. Noted for handling parallel proceedings across many jurisdictions, the team is led by Alexandra Neri and Frédéric Chevallier, who has gained a wealth of experience in life sciences and technology patent litigation, including the related regulatory aspects of pharmaceuticals. Recent work to highlight includes representing a major French multinational pharmaceutical and healthcare company in complex patent infringement litigation before the UPC.
Responsables de la pratique:
Alexandra Neri; Frédéric Chevallier
Les références
‘Creativity – business oriented – flexibility – speed.’
‘Frédéric Chevallier is recommended.’
Principaux clients
Sanofi
Roche
Foundation Medicine
Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Janssen Pharmaceuticals
Principaux dossiers
- Advising Sanofi on one of its innovative products, Jevtana, for the treatment of prostate cancer (cabazitaxel) in four infringement actions started before the Unified Patent Court.
- Advising Sanofi on one of its fastest growing products, Jevtan®, for the treatment of prostate cancer (cabazitaxel).
- Representing Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc., Takeda Pharmaceuticals and its exclusive licensee Janssen, in the enforcement strategy of their patents protecting their blockbuster bortezomib comprising product against generic entry.
HOYNG ROKH MONÉGIER
HOYNG ROKH MONÉGIER rightfully holds its place in the upper echelons of patent litigation given that it frequently handles complex parallel litigation proceedings dealing with patent infringement, unfair competition, and parasitism across both Europe and the USA. The firm is spearheaded by Paris-duo Benoît Strowel and Sabine Agé. Strowel is a member of both the Paris and Brussels bar and is qualified to practice in England and Wales, making him an expert multi-jurisdictional litigator, while Agé is a patents expert for clients in electronics and telecoms. Denis Monégier du Sorbier is a key name at the firm, while Amandine Métier advises clients on standard-essential patents and FRAND licenses, as well as on disputes relating to supplementary protection certificates and biosimilars. Sophie Micallef is a seasoned litigator and Florence Jacquand displays versatility at the firm, advising on patent validity and infringement, employees’ inventions, and contractual disputes. Caroline Levesque and Marta Mendes handle trade secrets and infringement litigation respectively.
Responsables de la pratique:
Benoît Strowel; Sabine Agé
Autres avocats clés:
Denis Monégier du Sorbier; Amandine Métier; Sophie Micallef; Florence Jacquand; Caroline Levesque; Marta Mendes
Principaux clients
DUPLO
FUJIFILM
HUROM
Illumina
Institut National de la propriété industrielle
INTEL
MICHELIN
NINTENDO
ORANGE
PHILIPS
REGENERON
Principaux dossiers
- Assisting clients Fujifilm and Hurom with cases before the UPC.
- Acting for Sony in a decision by the Cour de cassation providing guidance on the standing to sue when the patent has been transferred.
Jones Day
Working seamlessly with the firm’s German and British teams, Jones Day has an impressive track record in handling complex pan-European patent infringement litigation, as well as supporting clients with contract disputes, IP agreement negotiation and drafting, and trade secrets. Led by doyen Thomas Bouvet, who specialises in cross-border patent litigation for clients operating in the fields of life sciences, electronics, transportation, construction material, mechanics, consumer products, and leisure goods, the firm services both international companies and national organisations. He is assisted by stanchion Edouard Fortunet and Colin Devinant. Eddy Prothiere is a key name at the firm and handles patent ownership and compensation for employee inventions and is often a mediator for clients in the video games and entertainment industries.
Responsables de la pratique:
Thomas Bouvet
Autres avocats clés:
Colin Devinant; Eddy Prothiere; Edouard Fortunet
Les références
‘Very professional team with great expertise. Attentive to the specificities and particularities of its clients’ activities.’
‘Thomas Bouvet: attentive, reassuring, you immediately feel confident.’
Principaux clients
Infineon Technologies AG
Schwind eye-tech-solutions GmbH
bioMérieux
CJ CheilJedang Corporation
Institut Pasteur
ITW
Terraillon
Wybotics
Lufthansa Technik AG
Principaux dossiers
- Representing Korean company CJ CheilJedang Corporation in a patent infringement dispute initiated in November 2023 before the Paris First Instance Court, against its French competitor METEX NØØVISTAGO S.A.S.
- Acting for bioMérieux in defending an action for patent infringement, initiated by the patent troll, Labrador Diagnostics LLC, relating to the client’s diagnostic instruments used notably for the detection of Covid-19.
- Represented Terraillon, the world leader in individual consumer scales, in two separate patent infringement disputes initiated against it by Withings (a well-known French tech company) regarding connected scales and by Leifheit, aGermany competitor, in relation to traditional scales.
Linklaters
Leveraging its status as an international law firm, Linklaters services some of the world’s leading companies in technology, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. The firm regularly handles litigation, infringement proceedings, acquisitions, and IP-related agreements. Lauded by clients for being an expert litigator and outstanding team leader, practice head Pauline Debré is noted for handling complex patent litigation for clients in the healthcare, mobility, and telecommunications sectors. Under her helm is Gaëlle Bourout, who is noted for her in-depth expertise and outstanding drafting skills and is qualified for both the Paris bar and for the European Patent Office. Jean-François Merdignac and Laetitia Nicolazzi are stanchions of the firm’s practice with the ‘dynamic’ Nicolazzi leading on many litigation matters and Merdrignac handling the IP issues that come alongside M&A transactions.
Responsables de la pratique:
Pauline Debré
Autres avocats clés:
Gaëlle Bourout; Jean-François Merdrignac; Laetitia Nicolazzi
Les références
‘They manage complex situations with potential significant financial impact, global view in cross border environment, sharp analysis and strategic advice to customer for a business decision, delivery to budget. Linklaters Paris is our Counsel on a strategic cross border patent dispute, which implies a defensive workstream, an offensive one and many other workstreams, which require close coordination notably with their competition team and dispute resolution team.’
‘Pauline Debré is an exceptional woman and the best patent litigator. Her judgement is very pertinent with an impressive global view. With her outstanding skill and extensive experience, Pauline is our best IP counsel, because she has developed a very innovative and interesting strategic approach for us. She presents our IP strategy to our CEO and Top Management. She is also an excellent team leader, keeps the direction and makes things moving forward.’
‘Jean-François Merdrignac is very knowledgeable and very clear in his argumentation.’
Principaux clients
Seoul Semiconductor Co. Ltd.
Intel Corporation
Halozyme Therapeutics
Stellantis
Principaux dossiers
- Representing Seoul Semiconductor in their global enforcement campaigns against major competitors and their distributors in key jurisdictions and coordination thereof.
- Representing Intel’s affiliate Intel Germany in an infringement action relating to a patent essential to the ADSL standards launched by Intellectual Ventures II against internet provider Orange.
- Advising Seoul Semiconductor on two proceedings in France against various infringers of some of its patents, involving very complex technical matters in the field of optoelectronics.
Pinsent Masons LLP
Pinsent Masons LLP regularly handles complex patent disputes for clients and has accrued impressive experience and knowledge regarding UPC litigation and rules. The team is led by Jules Fabre, who has a strong specialism in life sciences and pharmaceuticals and also handles SPC litigations and coordination of pan-European patent litigation. Marina Jonon is key to the firm and leverages her previous experience in national firms; in addition to supporting with litigation, she advises on regulatory issues in the healthcare sector. Emmanuel Gougé left the firm in 2024.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jules Fabre
Autres avocats clés:
Marina Jonon
Les références
‘Excellent knowledge of local law and practice, availability, counsel on litigation, patent invalidation and on practical and strategic aspects linked to the French law.’
‘Jules Fabre, Marina Jonon: in addition to their outstanding knowledge of the technical area and of local law, they have provided advice in a timely and clear manner, with strategic outlook and full discussion of the possible scenarios, and achieved a major victory in a pharma patent action being litigated across Europe. ’
Principaux clients
Advanced Cell Diagnostics
Formycon
Global Wheel
Accord Healthcare
Zentiva
Georg Martin
Precitec
Asentys
Aldes
4D Pharma
Landys + Gyr
Teva Pharmaceuticals
Fresenius Kabi
Insud Pharma
Principaux dossiers
- Representing Zentiva in the context of an application for a fast-track preliminary injunction from Bayer against the contemplated launch of Zentiva’s generic rivaroxaban (Xarelto) product in France, on the basis of alleged infringement of a patent covering once-daily administration of rivaroxaban.
- Assisting Advanced Cell Diagnostics with the preparation and filing of a UPC infringement action against one of its main competitors in relation to kits for multiplexed, quantitative, high-resolution bioimaging in academic research, drug development, and clinical pathology and diagnostics.
- Representing Accord in a high-profile patent litigation against Sanofi in relation to its generic version of Sanofi’s blockbuster prostate cancer treatment Jevtana (cabazitaxel) before the UPC and before the French Courts.
Simmons & Simmons
The patents team at Simmons & Simmons regularly handles patent infringement litigation both before the UPC, European, and French courts for international clients in the health and life sciences industry, as well as the telecoms sector. The group was bolstered by the arrival of electronics specialist Abdelaziz Khatab, who is also noted by clients for his FRAND knowledge, and he co-heads the team alongside Sarah Bailey, who has expertise in the healthcare and life sciences sectors. Frédérique Potin is lauded by clients for her clear and pragmatic advice. François Jonquères departed the firm in June of 2024.
Responsables de la pratique:
Abdelaziz Khata; Sarah Bailey
Autres avocats clés:
Frédérique Potin
Les références
‘Very responsive and proactive team. Good customer support. Strong in proposing ideas and good listening to customer needs.’
‘Frédérique Potin knows her profession and intellectual property issues very well. Very good understanding of the issues in the cases, good listening to the client. Good advice on strategy.’
‘The IP team is very dynamic and responsive to clients. The interactions are always of excellent quality and relevant. The particularity of this team is to to understand the technical aspects of the subjects that is combined with the legal vision, to provide practical and relevant advice. Always straight to the point. ’
Principaux clients
Merck KGaA
Alkermes
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
United Orthopedic Corporation
Neo Medical
Genoscience Pharma
Généthon
IDEMIA
Ecoat
SAGEMCOM
Cooper Consumer Health
IBSA Pharma
Samsung Bioepis
Xiaomi
Principaux dossiers
- Representing DANA FARBER before the Paris Court of Appeal which overturned the decision of the French patent office which had rejected DANA FARBER’s application for an SPC.
- Defended Xiaomi against Immersion a US Patent Assertion Entity in a patent infringement lawsuit concerning haptic technology in smartphones.
Armengaud Guerlain
Having recently acquired impressive experience at the UPC, the team at Armengaud Guerlain regularly handles complex litigation for blue chip corporations, multinational companies, and SMEs. Noted for also having an Ibero-American desk, this boutique IP firm is managed by Paris litigation heavyweight-duo Stéphane Guerlain and Catherine Mateu, who between the two of them handle clients in English, French, and Spanish on matters pertaining to employee inventions, trade secrets, and patent applications and licensing agreements.
Responsables de la pratique:
Stéphane Guerlain; Catherine Mateu
Les références
‘Responsive, clear, efficient.’
‘My firm is working with Catherine Mateu as local European counsel on multiple TM and transactional IP matters. Catherine is thorough, efficient, provides sound legal advise and a pleasure to work with.’
‘Catherine Mateu and her team offer an exceptional legal service, always with joy and good humour. The quality of their services is always impeccable, even when we are faced with very short deadlines.’
Principaux clients
NJ DIFFUSION
ECAREYOU
Merck Millipore
ESTAR – MEDICAL
IMV TECHNOLOGIES
WIKO
NOVAPET
TTK
Telecom design
LINXENS
LA BOULANGÈRE
PERREIN
Principaux dossiers
- Acting for MERCK MILLIPORE and MERCK BIODEVELOPMENT in patent infringement action.
- Defending patent holder, ECAREYOU, in a patent validity dispute before the Paris Central Division of the UPC launched by FRIDABABY and presenting patent infringement counterclaims.
- Defending ESTAR Medical in patent infringement claims in a pharmaceutical process used for anti-aging “vampire lift” pending before the Paris Courtof First Instance.
Dentons
The team at Dentons has a particular strength for advising its clients, which include some of the largest technology companies in the world, on their patent issues involving employee inventions, pre-litigation, and nullity actions, as well as infringement action. Noted by clients for its impressive responsiveness, the team is led by Loïc Lemercier, who in addition to being an IP litigation expert, boasts significant experience with FRAND and SPC issues for clients in the pharmaceutical, telecommunications, luxury, food and beverage, internet, and technology sectors. He is assisted by a trifecta of high-achieving associates, namely Isabelle Leroux, Tom Blanchet, and Chen Gu, who all have gained a wealth of experience with regards to complex patent litigation.
Responsables de la pratique:
Loïc Lemercier
Autres avocats clés:
Isabelle Leroux; Tom Blanchet; Chen Gu
Les références
‘Loïc Lemercier’s team offers incredible value. Involvement, availability, speed and quality are excellent.’
‘Loïc Lemercier is an exceptional leader. Tom Blanchet and Chen Gu are also recommended.’
‘The team is exceptional in terms of competences, availability, recommendations, complementarity and follow-up even when members are travelling.’
Principaux clients
Apple
EOS Imaging
Magnier LLC
Septodont
CNRS
MyRobotics
AL.CHI.MIA. S.R.L. AND OPHTA FRANCE
Softbox
Sophia Engineering
Chanel
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Apple on a patent litigation dispute brought by Mr Ferid Allani before the Paris Court.
- Advised EOS imaging on a potential contractual liability action with a partner, and potentially a patent infringement action in the medical imaging field.
- Acted Magnier LLC, a US company, leading manufacturer of transformer protectors, against STP further to a breach of the licence agreement.
Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP
Noted for being a litigation heavyweight, the team at Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP frequently advises clients across a variety of industries, including telecoms, renewable energy, life sciences, healthcare, aerospace pharmaceuticals, and defence. Stanislas Roux-Vaillard leads the team and is a seasoned litigator; he leads on the firm’s plethora of cases pertaining to litigation before EU courts, French courts, and patent offices. Key to the team is Adrien Bonnet, who in addition to handling complex litigation, is noted for handling FRAND matters and co-ordinating with the London and German offices of the firm to advise clients.
Responsables de la pratique:
Stanislas Roux-Vaillard
Autres avocats clés:
Adrien Bonnet
Les références
‘Stanislas Roux-Vaillard has provided excellent support in French infringement proceedings. He always sees the needs of the client and guides the client well through all proceedings. I highly recommend him and his team for infringement proceedings.’
Principaux clients
Eli Lilly
Dürr Systems
Hollister
Astronics
GE Renewable Energy
Orange
Guangdong OPPO Mobile Telecommunications Corp; Ltd
HID Global
F. Hoffmann La Roche AG
Supponor
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Guangdong OPPO Mobile Telecommunications Corp; Ltd on a patent nullity action against Nokia which allowed OPPO to keep the European market open despite adverse decisions in other countries.
- Advised F. Hoffman La Roche on a law suit which involves the nullity of two formulation patents on a subcutaneous version of its blockbuster Herceptin.
- Advised L’Oréal on strategising the launch worldwide of a new hair appliance and securing defences to avoid injunctions by an innovative competitor on the market.
Jeantet
Jeantet is now active in this space following the arrival of Benjamin May in early 2025 from Aramis. May has strong expertise handling patent litigation, frequently with a cross-border nexus, but he also handles pre-litigation and advisory work. The team has a strong following among clients in the cosmetics, biotech and life sciences sectors.
Responsables de la pratique:
Benjamin May
Autres avocats clés:
Chloé Chircop
Principaux clients
Fresenius Medical Care
Lanaform
Belmoca
Arcadophta & BVI France
Angus
Zentiva (Eli Lilly matter)
Preformed Line Products
DSM-Firmenich
Out & Out Chemistry
Ligier
Principaux dossiers
- Assisting Fresenius Medical Care in a pan-European litigation against Nipro regarding the infringement and validity of a European patent related to a medical device in the field of dialyzers.
- Assisted Preformed Line Products in several investigation orders in various locations, as well as enforcing EP patents against competitors on the market of telecoms connectors.
- Assist DSM-Firmenich specialized in the extraction of biological products and the manufacture of perfumes, against the French company IDCO, suspected to infringe a patent on which DSM-Firmenich holds an exclusive license.
Taliens
Displaying a flair for complex international patent litigation, the team at Taliens caters to a roster of high-profile clients, which includes some of the most prolific pharmaceutical conglomerates in the world and major software and technology companies. Often acting as co-counsel with reputable international law firms in litigation matters, the firm also has strength with regards to advisory work, including license agreements, technology transfers, and patent aspects of joint ventures. The team is led by Jean-Frédéric Gaultier and Grégoire Triet.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jean-Frédéric Gaultier; Grégoire Triet
Principaux clients
Acorda Therapeutics
ArcelorMittal
AstraZeneca AB
Bausch Health
Clifford Chance
Eisai
Envases
Johnson & Johnson
Janssen
Leo Pharma
Meta
Nemera
SPPM
ZTE
Moncey Avocats
Principaux dossiers
- Defended ZTE against patent infringement claims by Intellectual Ventures in one of Europe’s largest patent battles.
- Advised Meta’s Facebook AI Research Paris laboratory on collaboration agreements and R&D projects with French and international research institutions.
- Represented AstraZeneca AB in an appeal against the French Patent and Trademark Office’s refusal of a supplementary protection certificate.
Bignon Lebray
Hosting a solid practice, the team at Bignon Lebray has a strong balance between advising on patent litigation, which includes infringement proceedings, IP-related contract drafting, audits, and strategic advice. The team is led by Nicolas Moreau, who advises clients in English, French, Spanish, and German, and he is ably supported by life sciences expert Barbara Bertholet. The firm is regularly instructed by start-ups, small to medium-sized businesses, multinational corporations, investment funds, and public sector entities.
Responsables de la pratique:
Nicolas Moreau
Autres avocats clés:
Barbara Bertholet
Principaux clients
SANDOZ
SYSTOLAR
LA MAISON
Hengelhoef
Dedienne Santé
Principaux dossiers
De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés
De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés has a robust patent litigation team that often interweaves itself with the firm’s M&A and tax groups to offer a commercial edge to their advice. The leadership of the team is handled by a quartet of skilled lawyers, namely Louis de Gaulle, a commercial law specialist, Julien Horn, who handles software and mass litigation campaigns, Francine Le Péchon-Joubert, an expert with regards to R&D, joint-ownership or joint-ventures transactions and technology transfer agreements, and Cécile Théard-Jallu, a healthcare and life sciences regulations specialist who leverages her experience working at international law firms in the USA as well as in-house.
Responsables de la pratique:
Louis de Gaulle; Julien Horn; Francine Le Péchon-Joubert; Cécile Théard-Jallu
Les références
‘Very good team in France for litigation matters.’
‘Francine Le Péchon-Joubert: Speaks fluent German, very experienced, nice to work with.’
Principaux clients
Alstom Transport
Energy Observer Developments
EUROPEENNE DE BIOMASSE
FinX
Gallagher
Hoya Surgical GmbH
HYPERION
ILE-DE-FRANCE MOBILITES
Nectra
PIERRE FABRE
Tyron Runflat Ltd
Principaux dossiers
DTMV & Associés
Noted by clients for their depth of expertise in the market, the team at DTMV & Associés handles matters for pharmaceutical companies and large and medium-sized French and foreign companies across a variety of industries, including automotive and mechanical equipment and telecommunications. Thierry Mollet-Viéville co-heads the team alongside Pascal Lefort, who has particular expertise in unfair competition and advertising, Eleonore Gaspar, who advises clients in the film, entertainment, fashion, e-commerce, energy, and travel industries. and Thomas Cuche and Grimaud Valat.
Responsables de la pratique:
Thierry Mollet-Viéville; Pascal Lefort; Eléonore Gaspar; Thomas Cuche; Grimaud Valat
Les références
‘The team is highly specialized in IP law and certainly has one of the largest and longest experiences in this field in France.’
‘Thomas Cuche is an excellent communicator and collaborator, in addition to his legal skills.’
‘The best. Great legal expertise; ability to analyze complex technical issues; ability to coordinate international litigation. Quality recruitment.’
Principaux dossiers
Gowling WLG
Bolstered by the arrival of industry heavyweight and heavily lauded Marianne Schaffner, the patent law offering at Gowling WLG advises some of the most forefront players in the chemical, biochemistry, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and biotech industries on their patent issues. The firm is regularly sought after to handle complex, high-value patent litigation for its clients at both a French and European level, and has gained experience with UPC litigation. Alongside Schaffner, the team is led by Céline Bey, who in addition to being a patent expert, also handles IP issues pertaining to privacy, marketing and advertising law, and unfair competition. Alexis Augustin is also a key name to note in the team and advises on both litigation and contractual mandates, and leverages his educational background in health products and industries.
Responsables de la pratique:
Céline Bey; Marianne Schaffner
Autres avocats clés:
Alexis Augustin
Les références
‘Well organized team which acts proactively and takes into account the client‘s needs.’
‘Céline Bey, very sharp and strategic thinker.’
‘An excellent knowledge of law, and an ability to adapt to unfamiliar technology.’
‘Céline Bey was able to use her familiarity with court procedure to inform a settlement strategy to achieve a good outcome for the client.’
‘Marianne Schaffner is my “go to” for ANY type of IP challenge in France. I love working with her because she is hyper-direct, frank and very talented. Now that I have the support of a firm like Gowling, I can only imagine that Marianne will reach the highest level of service, advice and support that she will ever offer.’
‘Very good team, headed by Marianne Schaffner. We worked together on many cases over the years and she always was responsive and to the point.’
‘Marianne Schaffner is a very good lawyer and an excellent team player.’
‘Gowling is clearly one of the best patent teams in France. They practice patent litigation on the highest level. Their combination of technical and legal knowledge is exceptional and ensures the best possible results for the client.’
Principaux dossiers
Osborne Clarke
The ‘remarkable’ team at Osborne Clarke has a comprehensive patent law offering advising clients on the full spectrum of patent issues, including patent prosecution, litigation, licensing, contracts, and portfolio management. The team caters to an impressive roster of clients, who are market leaders in the transport, life sciences, and energy and utilities sectors. The team is led by Paris-duo Claire Bouchenard and technology expert Xavier Pican, who leverages his prior experience working in-house. The team is also assisted by Laurène Zaggia and Christophe Arfan, who are IT and trade secrets specialists respectively.
Responsables de la pratique:
Claire Bouchenard; Xavier Pican
Autres avocats clés:
Laurène Zaggia; Christophe Arfan
Les références
‘Excellent quality of service, ability to work hand in hand with the company’s legal and business teams, very good expertise, not only at the partner level, but also at the counsel and collaborators’ level.’
‘The whole team is remarkable.’
Principaux clients
Gesamtverband Autoteile-Handel E.V
Principaux dossiers
- Representing GVA’s interests in France in a action initiated by Renault in connection with technologies embedded in Renault’s vehicles, in violation of European regulations, as interpreted by the Court of Justice of the European Union in a parallel case before the Nanterre judicial Court.
- Advised a global leader in high-technology industries on the current internal rules within a key aeronautic and defence group of the IP regime of inventions, particularly when they are generated by employees from several subsidiaries inside the group.
- Advised a leading European electricity transmission system operator on the risks of infringement of a patent granted to a major global electronics company.
ADVANT Altana
Praised by clients for its ability to take on complex matters, the team at ADVANT Altana has a robust patent practice that is able to navigate its clients through M&A, pre-litigation, audits, and contract and agreement negotiation and drafting, as well as memorandums. The firm services clients across a motley of sectors, including life sciences, energy, manufacturing, and electronics. The firm is led by co-head Pierre Lubet, who works at the intersection of IT and IP, advising clients on employee data protection, employee patents, corporate whistle-blowing systems, and company IT policies. Co-head Laura Morelli, in addition to being a seasoned litigator, has refined her skills as mediator, while Jean-Guy de Ruffray is equally adept at handling contentious matters, and has a particular focus on innovation.
Responsables de la pratique:
Pierre Lubet; Laura Morelli; Jean-Guy de Ruffray
Les références
‘Very responsive team, attentive to issues, capable of working in complex situations and on sophisticated subjects.’
‘Jean-Guy de Ruffray is recommended.’
Principaux clients
Biophytis
Valent BioSciences
AXIANS
AMPHENOL CORPORATION
ELECTROLUX
WIENERBERGER
VDLV
JACQUET PLANIFICATION
Principaux dossiers
- Advised AMPHENOL CORPORATION, a US listed company, on its acquisition of the LID TECHNOLOGIES group, a French-headquartered group specialised in the development, industrialisation and commercialisation of smart and wireless embedded electronic systems for automotive markets.
- Advised Electrolux Professional on its acquisition of Adventys, a French manufacturer of induction cooking solutions.
- Advised a clinical stage biotechnology, BIOPHYTIS, on the drafting and negotiation of an exclusive license and commercialisation agreement with a Brazilian pharmaceutical company for its lead clinical drug candidate in Latin America.
DLA Piper
Harnessing the firm’s extensive global network to advise its clients on patent issues, the team at DLA Piper regularly undertakes patent infringement litigation, cancellation action litigation, patent aspects of acquisitions, and trade secret matters on a cross-border stage. The firm advises clients that are active across a variety of industries, including life sciences, consumer goods, and technology. The firm is headed up by Frank Valentin, who is a TMT IP litigation specialist, and also acts as global co-chair for the firm’s media, sport and entertainment team.
Responsables de la pratique:
Frank Valentin
Principaux clients
Laboratoires Vivacy
Principaux dossiers
Goodwin
Leveraging its status as an international law firm, the team at Goodwin regularly advises on the IP aspects of M&A deals, and has a particular flair for crafting and negotiating IP-related agreements, including R&D agreements, patent license agreements, know-how license agreements, and commercial contracts. The team is led by Marie Fillon, who is noted for her in-depth expertise in negotiating strategic cross-border agreements with the United States and Asia, and regularly caters to a host of key multinational players in the pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, luxury goods, and software development industries.
Responsables de la pratique:
Marie Fillon
Les références
‘Business vision in addition to the very important and highly appreciable legal expertise.’
‘Marie Fillon: very available, professional and business/solutions oriented.’
‘Its technicality and its positioning within a complete life sciences platform covering other practices.’
‘Marie Fillon, through her technical and sophisticated approach in writing and calm in negotiations.’
Principaux clients
Affluent Medical
AlgoTx
Biomunex Pharmaceuticals
Diabeloop
Kurma Partners
Micropep Technologies
Owkin
Qynapse
Robocath
Sofinnova Partners
SpineVision
Tribun Health
Principaux dossiers
Lavoix
Lavoix is noted for handling patent litigation in France and across the EU for clients in the luxury goods, life sciences, oil, energy, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries. The team is led by the ‘well known and respected’ Camille Pecnard, who is an infringement seizure specialist and is assisted by Pierre Emmanuel Meynard, an expert concerning the drafting of contractual agreements, pharmaceutical law and litigation, and the launch and marketing of medicinal products and medical devices. Martin Simonnet is also a key name to note in the team as a litigation expert.
Responsables de la pratique:
Camille Pecnard
Autres avocats clés:
Pierre Emmanuel Meynard; Martin Simonnet
Les références
‘Lavoix is a top firm for infringement litigation in France. The lawyers cover a broad range of expertise in various legal and technical fields. The co-operation with them is effective and to the clients’ needs. The team includes very experienced attorneys as well as notable new comers. We value Lavoix for consistent and reliable high quality work.’
‘Camille Pecnard is a well known and respected litigator in national and international infringement cases. He is a master strategist and has the capability to present complex technologies in a very concise and comprehensible way.’
‘Very strong team in IP litigation. I send them my patent litigation files in particular.’
Principaux clients
10X GENOMICS INC
INSERM TRANSFERT
NANTES UNIVERSITE
LAVAZZA PRO
NAVAL GROUP
CONTINENTAL
PANTHERA
BIOLOG
ARCELORMITTAL
NANTES UNIVERSITÉ
NEOPERL
Principaux dossiers
- Represented 10X GENOMICS in France in two cases of breach of trade secret situations involving several former employees
- Represented a leading French public research establishments and universities in the field of medicine in a patent ownership lawsuit against a French private biotechnology company.
- Represented Lavazza Pro as a plaintiff in a patent infringement multi-jurisdictional case before the Paris Court of First Instance against competitors regarding a patent covering an automatic cup dispensing mechanism of automatic beverage vending machine.