ARQIS' IP/IT practice covers the full range of IP and IT advice, both contentious and non-contentious, including in particular trade marks, designs, copyright, innovation and technology, trade secrets, patent litigation, licensing, IT projects and unfair competition matters.
The team, headed by partner Marcus Nothhelfer, comprises six highly skilled IP professionals with diverse specialisations. Trade mark and design experts Carolin von Fritsch and Maya Manarivonirina have significantly enhanced their profiles. Paulina Hüttner also contributes her expertise as experienced contract specialist. Rolf Tichy and Julia Wildgans, specialising in IP issues in the digital realm, have deep expertise in the intersection of IP and IT, including areas like AI, cybersecurity, DMA and DSA.
Trade marks, designs and trade secrets are a primary focus, complemented by transactional IP advice. In alignment with the firm's full-service approach to national and international transactions, the IP team plays a vital role in most of the deals managed by ARQIS' esteemed corporate/M&A and PE/VC practices. Embedded as a specialist area within the firm-wide Data.Law focus group, IP/IT advice integrates closely with data protection, as well as commercial and distribution law, compliance, and litigation.
The ARQIS IP team has particular industry experience in automotive and logistics, lifestyle, fashion and beauty, but also in growth sectors such as robotics, e-mobility, AI and digital infrastructure. With regard to the latter, the ARQIS IP practice is well-equipped to act as a versatile one-stop shop, not only for young companies with innovative business models.
In addition to long-standing client relationships with companies seeking specialist IP advice, the team regularly exploits synergies. For instance, many cases arise from post-M&A consultancy or from the firm's Japan desk. The team has also seen a steady increase in matters with a US nexus in recent years.
