Legalsa‘s IP practice wins praise from clients for its ’broad command of the subject‘ and ’mastery of the legal procedures‘, making it a strong choice to advise a host of well-known domestic and multinational companies on the management of their IP portfolios throughout Central America. The team frequently assists with trademark registrations and renewals, and also has notable experience in niche areas such as motion trademarks and copyright licensing agreements for works of art. On the contentious front, the department leans on top-flight litigators Alejandro Penados and Henry Comte in opposition, infringement, unfair competition and anti-counterfeiting claims. The firm also has practices dedicated to advising start-ups and clients in the e-commerce space on IP matters. The ’committed‘ Karina Calderón heads the practice, ably supported by associate Óscar Herrera.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Legalsa's intellectual property team, led by Karina Calderón, has proven to be efficient, standing out for its mastery and knowledge of the field, information management, response times, and ability to provide solutions to conflicts arising from the registration processes for intellectual property rights. The quality of work and competitive prices differentiate Legalsa from other law firms in the market.’

  • ‘Karina Calderón is a committed professional focused on providing a personalised service adapted to the needs of the client. She is always willing to provide efficient solutions for different scenarios in intellectual property matters.’

  • ‘I consider it a very efficient practice. They support us through the legal processes, clarifying the terms and technical language. In trademark registration processes, they are very proactive and always suggest previous searches to avoid future costs, which is appreciated.’

  • ‘They are very kind in their treatment of clients and are very patient when it comes to guiding us through the processes and legal terms. They are organised and do not require follow-up since they report back to us themselves  on the stages of the process.’

  • ‘They are always clear in terms of the strategies to be adopted in the legal procedure, and always provide a personal and high-quality service to their clients. Compared to other firms in Guatemala, Legalsa gives importance to all of the client's issues, no matter how small, making them feel that they are a priority and that they are always well attended.’

  • ‘They are great experts in the field. They have a broad command of their subject and mastery of the legal procedures and this gives confidence to their clients.’

  • ‘The service we have received has been totally satisfactory.’

  • ‘We have received excellent service from Óscar Herrera and from the staff in charge of billing and collection. Their treatment of us is always punctual and friendly.’

Key clients

  • Climate Partner
  • Grupo Castelli
  • Misión Taiwan en Guatemala
  • Weetabix
  • TotalEnergies
  • Hennés & Mauritz (H&M)
  • Puma Energy International
  • PriceSmart
  • PayPal
  • Colombina
  • Tommy Hilfiger
  • Milagro de Amor
  • Fosforera Centroamericana
  • Complejo Industrial Xnaj
  • Avianca Holdings

Work highlights

  • Advised Climate Partner on strategies for protecting its trademarks and on the certification rules in Guatemala, including the registration of trademarks in over 25 classes.
  • Successfully defended CBC against challenges to its "Aqua Eco" trademark.
  • Advised Misión Taiwan en Guatemala on the development and protection of communal trademarks and trade dresses for small agricultural producers of coffee and honey.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Karina Calderón