Intellectual Property: Domestic - Japan
What the team is known for
Abe, Ikubo & Katayama has a market-leading practice with a proven track record of defending multinationals in litigation related to IP infringement and invalidation actions. The firm takes on high-profile cases regarding patents and offers strong technical knowledge in such industries as biotechnology, telecommunications and electronics. It has noted expertise in the pharmaceutical and automotive sectors and is highly proficient in representing clients before the Japan Patent Office as well as the IP High Court and the Supreme Court. The team is also able to assist clients with patent portfolio management and protection strategy. The firm's client base includes Eisai, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson.
Strengths
"Abe, Ikubo & Katayama's advice and guidance is clear, concise and based in strong strategy and logic."
"It is a very deliberate firm that offers well-considered advice."
Work highlights
Abe, Ikubo & Katayama defended Abbott Laboratories at an invalidation trial against Roche Diagnostics before the Japan Patent Office.
Notable practitioners
Eiji Katayama is an eminent lawyer in the market whose engineering background serves his patent litigation practice well. "His judgement comes from a high point of view and he is sharp and very reliable."
Mami Hino regularly advises leading pharmaceutical clients on patent litigation and transactions, with a particular emphasis on handling invalidity trials. Her work benefits from her extensive experience and background as a pharmacist.
Junichi Kitahara is a well-known lawyer in the market handling complex commercial disputes for both domestic and international clients. His practice covers the pharmaceutical and technology sectors.
Makoto Hattori is dual-qualified in Japan and New York, and represents multinational corporates across a range of patent litigation.
