Chambers Europe 2021

"Klaka is an outstanding IP litigation boutique, being large enough to handle big patent litigation cases but small enough to provide tailor-made services."

Germany – Intellectual Property: Patent Litigation – Tier 3
Germany – Intellectual Property: Trade Mark & Unfair Competition – Tier 3


What the team is known for Regularly handles disputes concerning trade marks, including trade mark enforcement, opposition and cancellation proceedings, as well as unfair competition cases and protected designation of origin matters. Extensive experience in patent infringement cases, as well as opposition, nullity and compensation proceedings. Demonstrates particular expertise in standard-essential patent and FRAND cases. Represents a roster of long-standing clients in numerous sectors, including pharmaceutical, financial services and automotive.

Strengths One impressed market source reports: "Klaka is an outstanding IP litigation boutique, being large enough to handle big patent litigation cases but small enough to provide tailor-made services."

"I would underline that they are technically excellent and they are ready at any time to engage with the needs and demands of their clients," enthuses another interviewee.

Work highlights Represented BMW in a trade mark dispute against Tchibo, relating to BMW's 'MINI' trade mark.

Notable practitioners

Andreas Schulz handles a broad spectrum of trade mark and unfair competition matters, including colour mark disputes and cancellation proceedings. Interviewees appreciate Schulz's ability to think ahead, with one source saying: "He anticipates dangers and advises comprehensively."

Constantin Kurtz has a number of clients in the manufacturing and mechanical engineering sectors. He also advises clients in the telecommunications industry on standard essential patent issues. One interviewee reports that Kurtz is "a keen thinker who really gets to the bottom of cases."

Olaf Giebe is particularly active in the telecommunications sector, representing clients in a range of matters including standard-essential patent infringement disputes. He elicits praise for his advocacy skills in court, with one source reporting: "He has so much experience in patent litigation and is able to make his point very clearly."

Ralf Hackbarth frequently handles trade mark enforcement proceedings, with a focus on the automotive sector. He also commands expertise in unfair competition law disputes. "Hackbarth is an absolute expert in cross-border trade mark disputes," enthuses an impressed client, who adds: "He thinks very strategically and is very dedicated and engaged."

Ranked Lawyers

Intellectual Property: Patent Litigation Germany
Olaf Giebe
Band 1
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Constantin Kurtz
Band 5
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Intellectual Property: Trade Mark & Unfair Competition Germany
Ralf Hackbarth
Band 2
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Andreas Schulz
Band 5
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