The Patent 1000 focuses exclusively on patent practice and has firmly established itself as the definitive 'go-to' resource for those seeking world-class legal patent expertise.
Recommended - Firms: transactions
Gold - Firms: prosecution
Silver - Firms: litigation
Full-service firm Borden Ladner Gervais is a skilled all-rounder in the patent field, with active prosecution and litigation practices. It recently launched Beyond IP Strategy, a team of legal and business professionals across Canada who specialise in IP strategy and, using BLG’s exclusive IP strategy framework, it helps clients to develop, expand and enhance their strategy from every angle. Patrons rave about this service: “We chose BLG because of their comprehensive Beyond IP Strategy programme and I would recommend it in a heartbeat. I am blown away by the team’s diligence and knowledge, as they provide patient and thorough answers.” Leading the charge on this platform is Curtis Behmann, whose “service is outstanding, and he demonstrates a great level of commitment, professionalism and in-depth knowledge. He evaluates business needs and always find the best possible solutions.” Anchoring the group nationally, Andrew Sojonky “provides prompt, thorough and detailed advice” to companies looking to secure their patent assets – primarily in the chemical industry – as well as seamlessly managing portfolios in over 40 countries. Geoffrey de Kleine exhibits great technical agility and broad sector knowledge, but focuses his expertise on the electronics, software and telecommunications space. A variety of work has been keeping the team busy, and recently Jason Mueller-Neuhaus and Graeme Boocock have been working with Ecolab, the world leader in water, hygiene and infection prevention solutions, to maintain its entire Canadian portfolio. On behalf of Mobility View, Brandon Evenson has been developing the company’s IP strategy while also advising on commercial matters that arise, while David Nauman has been supporting ABK Biomedical with all of its prosecution needs. Looking deeper into the life sciences team, Mark Vickers, Kathleen Marsman and Jennifer Raoul are the names to note. Vickers leads the group and works closely with universities and start-ups to protect their latest inventions; Marsman makes good use of her technical qualifications to counsel her patrons and breaks down challenging problems into achievable steps; and Raoul enjoys working closely with in-house counsel of pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and delivering strategic guidance that is in line with their business objectives. On the contentious side of the practice, Chantal Saunders and Beverley Moore are representing Eli Lilly in several appeals regarding patent infringement, involving the tadalafil drugs Cialis and Adcirca. The pair utilise their combined experience to strike all the right notes.
As the largest, truly full-service Canadian law firm, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP (BLG) delivers practical legal advice for domestic and international clients across more practices and industries than any other Canadian firm. With over 800 lawyers, IP agents and other professionals, BLG serves the legal needs of businesses and institutions across Canada and beyond – from M&A and capital markets, to disputes, financing, and trademark and patent registration.
BLG’s IP Group works closely with you to make protecting and enforcing your intellectual property a top priority Many of our lawyers and professionals hold advanced technology and scientific degrees in key industry sectors bringing an insider's understanding to your most challenging IP issues.
Patents
BLG’s patent professionals can help you maximise assets and devise strategies to protect and manage risk in a global market. Our team can assist you with a wide range of services across the spectrum of science and technology, including:
- worldwide patent portfolio strategy planning, analysis and development;
- patentability, infringement, validity and freedom-to-operate opinions;
- Canadian, US and international patent application preparation and filing; and
- cost-reduction and cost-benefit analyses of patent strategies.
Beyond IP Strategy
Beyond IP Strategy is a team of business and legal professionals from across Canada who specialise in IP strategy and helping clients get to their intended results faster. Two members of this highly skilled team have been listed in IAM Strategy 300: The World’s Leading IP Strategists. Using Growth Catalyst® – BLG’s proprietary IP strategy framework – we help clients develop, expand and fortify their IP strategy from every angle. Our IP strategy solutions also help companies prepare for investment and financing, expansion or exit, as well as provide valuable insights and intelligence about IP activity of their competitors.
Litigation
Intellectual property is one of your most valuable assets. We understand the value of intellectual property and the need to enforce and defend your IP rights. Whether you are pursuing infringers or defending against allegations of IP infringement or misappropriation, it is essential to have an experienced team of vigilant advocates on your side. Our professionals speak your language and bring together the best of both worlds: the trial experience to communicate highly technical and legal issues to judges, and the technical expertise to help you address IP issues. Our team includes lawyers who specialise in pharmaceutical litigation, including issues with the Patented Medicines (Notice of Compliance) Regulations.
Licensing
BLG’s licensing group can structure comprehensive licensing transactions by exploring the technology’s life cycle, its potential applications to other areas and market direction. We can help you develop and capitalise on your IP portfolio by negotiating and drafting licensing agreements, and drafting and negotiating trademark, copyright, patent, trade secret and know-how licences.
Industrial design
Protecting the aesthetic appearance of your product is a key part of a comprehensive IP strategy. Industrial designs can provide effective protection against competitors, particularly in industries susceptible to imitation. We also assist with electronic icons, graphical user interfaces and designs where colour is now protectable as part of a design.
Trademarks
A trademark’s success hinges on having an experienced legal team that can provide comprehensive trademark portfolio management and enforcement services and offer sound advice on maximising opportunities in an evolving global marketplace. We can help you plan and implement programmes to clear, select, register and enforce trademark and trademark-related rights. Our professionals will work with you to understand your needs in a variety of areas, including:
- worldwide trademark portfolio strategy planning, analysis and development;
- brand management;
- advertising, marketing and packaging; and
- monitoring opportunities and threats.
Copyright
With today’s immediate access to digital media, copyright protection and enforcement can significantly affect your bottom line. Whether protecting your copyright or defending it from infringement claims, working with a trusted, proactive team of advisers who can address complex copyright issues across numerous industries and help achieve your business’s goals is critical. Our copyright group’s experience and multidisciplinary approach provides comprehensive assistance in a range of areas, including due diligence, protection advice and registration, and enforcement and licensing.
Awards and recognition
BLG has been recognised as a leading firm by some of the most prestigious national and international legal publications, including Chambers Canada, IAM Patent 1000, IP STARS, and WTR 1000.
Jurisdiction