In the competition sphere and across the soft IP spectrum, WilmerHale is particularly known for its dispute resolution capabilities, which are primarily applied for clients from the fashion, consumer goods, pharmaceutical and e-commerce industries. The group further assists with advertising campaigns, licensing and strategic issues. In addition to companies, including several from the US , the practice is also instructed by German authorities, which is not least due to its cross-location cooperation. Practice head Vanessa Wettner, whose expertise includes litigation before courts such as the Federal Court of Justice and the European Court of Justice, is the key contact and advises several Silicon Valley companies, among others.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Excellently high level of competence, even regarding complex specialist material, which can only be acquired through thorough training. High empathy for client's needs.'

  • 'Vanessa Wettner: Honest analyses and legal assessments that are not aimed at driving the process forward in a costly manner. Always independent legal assessments. In short: High independence with success!

  • 'Vanessa Wettner: Excellent litigator who has immense experience and always keeps an eye on work and cost efficiency, good interaction when working with associates.'

  • 'Powerful and experienced team, internationally connected, very good practice.'

  • 'Vanessa Wettner is an excellent and experienced litigation strategist with in-depth knowledge of IP and competition law.'

Key clients

  • Becton Dickinson B.V.
  • Bundesrepublik Deutschland – Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie
  • Hugo Boss AG
  • Meta Platforms, Inc.

Work highlights

  • Representation of Meta in so-called AppCenter proceedings before the European Court of Justice, which dealt with the question of whether consumer protection associations still have the right to sue under the UWG and UKlaG to prosecute data protection violations in court even after the GDPR comes into force.
  • Successful representation of Hugo Boss in EU-wide trade mark infringement proceedings against one of Europe's largest clothing discounters concerning various BOSS slogans.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Vanessa Wettner