Powell Gilbert Marks 'Landmark' Expansion with New Germany Office Amid Surging Patent Litigation Demand Intellectual Property

Set to open in September 2025, the Düsseldorf office will focus primarily on European patent litigation, particularly under the recently operational Unified Patent Court (UPC) system. This expansion is part of Powell Gilbert’s response to clients’ needs for cross-border representation and on-the-ground expertise in one of Europe’s most important jurisdictions for patent enforcement.

Powell Gilbert’s move into Germany is being led by Dr. Andreas Kramer, along with Hannes Obex and Andreas Ditler, a highly respected German patent litigator who joins the firm from Vossius & Partner. Alongside him, a team of experienced German patent lawyers and support staff will anchor the new location.

“We see this as a truly landmark moment for the firm,” said Penny Gilbert, founding partner of Powell Gilbert. “Germany has long been a critical jurisdiction in global patent litigation. By launching an office in Düsseldorf, we are strengthening our ability to deliver seamless, pan-European IP legal services, particularly in the life sciences, telecommunications, and high-tech sectors.”

Düsseldorf has emerged as a central hub for European patent disputes, alongside Munich and Mannheim. With the establishment of the Unified Patent Court, headquartered in Paris and with major branches in Munich and Düsseldorf, Germany’s role has only grown in significance. The new court allows patent holders to enforce their rights across most EU member states with a single legal action — dramatically reshaping the patent litigation landscape.

Gilbert emphasized that the firm’s Germany expansion is part of a long-term vision to serve international clients across jurisdictions while maintaining the firm’s deep specialization in intellectual property law.

Clients, especially from pharmaceuticals, biotech, and tech, are expected to benefit from the cross-border experience that Powell Gilbert brings, along with its integrated UK-German approach to UPC and EPO (European Patent Office) disputes.