TMI Associates is one of the leading law firms in Japan. The team, supported by lawyers and patent attorneys, is well-experienced in handling IP disputes. In addition to legal services, the firm is recommended for its high capacity for non-contentious matters. The prosecution team can handle all kinds of inventions with its knowledgeable patent attorneys in various technological fields, including electronics, life sciences, and machinery.
Notable IP practitioners: Yoshiyuki Inaba, Hiroshi Nemoto, Makoto Okada
2026
"TMI Associates has a highly sophisticated IP litigation team with deep insight into Japanese court practice and procedures. The team is especially strong in handling technically complex patent disputes and trademark conflicts involving domestic and international parties. What distinguishes TMI is their ability to combine rigorous legal analysis with strong procedural strategy, ensuring that cases are managed efficiently and effectively."
"TMI’s prosecution and filing team demonstrates exceptional precision and consistency in managing IP portfolios in Japan. They have a thorough understanding of JPO practice and provide high-quality drafting, prosecution and portfolio management services. Their advice is clear and practical, helping clients avoid common pitfalls in Japanese patent and trademark filings."
"TMI provides well-rounded and commercially grounded IP advisory services. The team takes time to understand each client’s business model, technology and market goals, enabling them to provide tailored strategic advice. Their guidance on enforcement, licensing, compliance, and dispute prevention is insightful and actionable."
"The quality of the work is excellent. They are professional and fast, too."
"Incredibly good advice and consistent updates on evolving case law. Always practical, strategic thinking."
"Great work and client service. Practical recommendations and explains clearly strategy recommendations for US audience. "
Toyotaka Abe
"Responsive and very good with patent strategy in Japan and also advising us when challenging issues arise. He is our go to lawyer in Japan and has been incredibly valuable to us over the years."
Yoshiyuki Inaba
"Yoshiyuki Inaba is an outstanding patent practitioner with deep technical knowledge and a strong command of Japanese and international patent law. He demonstrates exceptional skill in patent prosecution, invalidation proceedings, and strategic portfolio management, particularly in technology-driven industries. He is highly effective at translating complex technical concepts into clear legal strategies and provides practical, commercially grounded advice."
Shunji Sato
"Excellent advisor. Understands business well."
2025
“Their professionalism and ability to communicate effectively in both English and Japanese were key factors in our decision."
“Their team is knowledgeable and efficient, ensuring smooth and effective communication. We and our clients are very satisfied with their service."
"They are responsive and excellent at their work."
"We appreciate TMI Associates' professionalism and their ability to respond quickly to our inquiries.”
"We chose TMI Associates for their outstanding reputation in IP law and their proven track record in Japan.”
Case studies show patent litigation, prosecution, licensing, and conflict negotiations work for various high-profile clients.
Case studies show the firm has handled various trade mark work for clients in a range of sectors. Work includes assisting clients in enforcement, legal assessment of trade mark infringement risk, litigation, and filing matters.
Case studies show the firm assisted global clients from various sectors in several licensing matters.