Messina International, whose diverse client base ranges from the technology to the life sciences sectors, is frequently instructed on traditional IP matters such as trade mark and copyright registration, but is also highly active in IP litigation and the IP aspects of licensing, distribution and supply agreements, regulatory compliance, technology transfers and advertising contracts, with notable strength in matters related to new technologies. Versatile IP specialist Ana Messina leads the team alongside Adelin Villalobos, who was promoted to partner in November 2023, and is praised for her knowledge of IP prosecution and litigation.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The lawyers are efficient and accessible. Each answer involves a comprehensive explanation of the procedures.'

  • ‘They stand out for their personalised service and attention to detail in the management of cases. We received excellent customer service and communication from Adelin Villalobos.'

  • ‘Agility and commitment are displayed by Ana Messina and Adelin Villalobos.'

  • ‘Adelin Villalobos is a professional who knows intellectual property, responds quickly and follows up on the procedures. An excellent lawyer.'

  • 'The Messina International team is exceptional, and I don't say that lightly. They are our point of reference for doing business in the Dominican market. I have worked with other firms and this one stands out for the quality of its service and its impressive responses, no matter how complex the matter is. They compare to other international firms, living up to their name.'

  • 'They stand out for the quality of the customer service and their experience. Adelin Villalobos is a star - she handles all matters in an impressive way. Ana Messina leaves us speechless - she is the most experienced lawyer in the entire region.'

  • 'It seems to me that they are very efficient with the responses and follow-up they give on each of the cases in their charge, and they have a very orderly billing system. When they send communications about deadlines that must be met, they follow up very closely until they obtain instructions to proceed. They achieve all this because they have a good IT platform that allows them to keep strict control of their clients' issues.'

  • 'In my particular case, I have had a direct relationship with Adelin Villalobos. I think she is an excellent lawyer - she gives very accurate advice when handling clients' matters, she always stays very up to date regarding the criteria of the Trademark Office and she maintains good relations with its officials, which is important for be able to provide good monitoring of the processes. She is a proactive lawyer and very dedicated to her work, who has earned enough merit to become a partner in the firm.'

Key clients

  • Viafirma
  • JJ Martin Group (Salutti USA)/ John Ra
  • Brandstock Services
  • Alfaro, Ferrer & Ramirez (AFRA)
  • Deutsche Transnational Trustee Corporation/Empresas Polar
  • Insecticidas Internacional Dominicana/Agroser
  • Herrero & Asociados
  • Industrias San Miguel
  • Perfetti Van Melle

Work highlights

  • Advising Deutsche Transnational Trustee Corporation/Empresas Polar on cancellation actions brought against two of their most important brands (Cervezas Polar and Maltin Polar), their flagship trade marks in the Dominican Republic.
  • Advising Industrias San Miguel on regulatory affairs and compliance related to the manufacturing and commercialisation of products/goods in the Dominican Republic and foreign jurisdictions.
  • Represented a major luxury brand in a trade mark infringement case, procuring the declaration of notoriety of the client.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Ana Isabel Messina, Adelin Villalobos