Rapid shifts in the intellectual property (IP) landscape are raising new challenges for businesses striving to avoid the last resort of litigation and the resulting drain on time and resources. Zacco’s Thomas Rukin, the group IP litigation director, and Maria Beijer, a senior partner, highlight the key considerations in a podcast with Phil Myers, Managing IP’s commercial editor.
The following points are addressed:
How the Unified Patent Court’s introduction has affected the handling of patent disputes, and why a localised IP strategy remains important;
The increasing prominence of AI in infringement disputes and evidence-gathering;
How disputes escalate into formal legal proceedings;
Alternative routes for resolving disputes without litigation;
How the scope of counterfeiting and copycat behaviour is broadening from apparel to fields such as software and food products; and
Practical advice for stakeholders who believe they are the victim of infringement or those forced to defend themselves against accusations.
IP owners can face an arduous process involving experts, patent and trademark offices, appeal boards, and mediation before a case even reaches a court’s books. However, proactive steps can help mitigate the risk of incurring substantial costs. As Rukin says, “the best defence is a good offence”.
The speakers
Thomas Rukin
Group intellectual property litigation director, Zacco
Thomas oversees the litigation and dispute resolution practice across the whole of Zacco. With over 20 years of experience as an intellectual property (IP) lawyer, he is highly ranked by multiple leading independent IP platforms for his mastery of trademark and design enforcement.
Thomas provides clients with high-level oversight on ICT law, unfair competition, and customs actions, ensuring that client brands are effectively protected against counterfeit and infringement. His expertise in negotiating complex cross-border settlements makes him a go-to resource for high-stakes IP disputes.
Maria Beijer
Senior partner, Zacco
Maria is an experienced lawyer and skilled intellectual property (IP) strategist, able to advise her clients on a range of international portfolio development and enforcement matters. An experienced litigator, she advises clients on infringement actions, counterfeits, and regulatory or legislative implications, and represents them through the courts when necessary.
Maria’s understanding of IP best practice across a range of industries and international markets means she can offer practical commercial and legal advice on everything from oppositions or IP commercialisation to infringements and counterfeits.
