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.
Gold - Individuals: litigation
“Brinkhof is the number one option for patent infringement matters in the Netherlands, especially for telecommunications”, enthuses one source. The IP boutique has a squadron of lawyers that are unsurpassed in their skill and experience, making it a solid choice for pan-European briefs that require seamless coordination. For example, it recently assisted OPPO, one of the largest mobile phone manufacturers in the world, in its patent infringement proceedings against Sisvel. The multi-jurisdictional dispute concerns highly specialised technology and raises significant issues of competition law and other jurisdictional difficulties when it comes to FRAND obligations. Richard Ebbink, Daan de Lange and Rien Broekstra were part of the team involved. “Richard is absolutely top of the market. He provides highly strategic and client-focused advice and is without a doubt the go-to for the most complex and intellectually demanding patent work.” “Daan is a brilliant lawyer who is tremendously gifted in patent law. He has the unique talent of turning around unwinnable patent disputes and coming out successful.” Computer scientist Broekstra “has a fantastic understanding of technology”, which means he can not only level with inventors, but also compose winning arguments that are easy to understand. Recently, he has linked up with Mark van Gardingen to assist Vision Box in devising their overall European IP strategy and to provide robust defence in infringement proceedings brought by Idemia, concerning several patents relating to biometric security systems. Van Gardingen co-leads the patent department and is “one of the best lawyers in the Netherlands. He is intelligent, tenacious and has the flair you need to get the ear of the court. His oral advocacy and strategic foresight make him one of the strongest advocates in the country.” Looking towards the life sciences, Koen Bijvank has been representing multinational pharmaceutical company Grifols in various opposition proceedings. “Koen is an excellent pleader who is truly skilled at what he does.”