Bernard Ledeboer

Bernard Ledeboer began his career as a patent attorney with VO in 1997, having previously worked at a large law firm in Amsterdam. He holds an MSc in mechanical engineering and an LLM in IP litigation.

Mr Ledeboer’s general expertise lies in the field of mechanical and civil engineering. He has specialised in machine construction, flexible manufacturing systems, conveyor systems, offshore techniques, surgical instruments and consumer products. His clients are of all sizes, with a focus on medium-sized industrial supply companies. Mr Ledeboer has a pragmatic approach to IP protection and enjoys direct communication with his clients. His practice is divided between patent prosecution and patent litigation. He has broad experience in patent litigation cases before the court in The Hague, and opposition and appeal cases before the European Patent Office. He applies his litigation experience to build strong patent portfolios for his clients.

Mr Ledeboer is head of VO’s engineering, software and IT department. He is also a member of the board of directors.

Mr Ledeboer has received the following recent testimonials:

• “Bernard Ledeboer ‘has tremendous experience in dealing with the courts and has a knack for presenting cases clearly and effectively’” (IAM Patent 1000, 2019).
• “Bernard Ledeboer ‘particularly impresses’, and he is frequently singled out by peers as an example of what a prosecutor should be. The engineering aficionado also boasts qualifications and experience in litigation. He stands out for his recent efforts in conjunction with colleagues in the Belgian office, excelling in opposition proceedings on behalf of plastics giants, and for his instrumental technical contribution to infringement proceedings between medical devices supremo B Braun Melsungen and its arch-rival Beckton Dickinson. ‘He has a pragmatic approach to IP protection, and is a wordsmith who enjoys direct communication with his clients’” (IAM Patent 1000, 2018).