HKW Intellectual Property

Our Competencies


What makes
us different.

At HKW, every client engagement is a collaborative partnership. We don't simply process files; we invest deeply in understanding your needs. Whether you're a startup with a groundbreaking technology or an established corporation expanding your IP portfolio, you will receive precise, strategically crafted legal support that is tailored to your specific requirements.

One of our core competencies is drafting and prosecuting patent applications. With extensive experience in this area, we also leverage our knowledge from opposition and litigation to create robust and enforceable patents. This comprehensive approach ensures that your innovations are optimally protected from the outset. 

The interplay of cutting-edge technology and legal considerations presents challenges that require more than standard legal services. We understand that your intellectual property is vital to your business.

Our client-focused approach is grounded in three key principles: 

  • proactive communication to keep you informed and engaged

  • transparent processes without surprises, and

  • flexible pricing models that align with your strategic goals and budget. 

We are your committed partners in achieving effective IP protection.

HKW Intellectual Property

Our Competencies

  • At the heart of every patent lies a well-crafted application, and it all begins with a draft. Our process starts with something fundamental: a conversation. We typically meet inventors via video conference, listening intently to understand every nuance of their innovation.

    With over 3000 patent applications drafted to date, our approach combines in-depth experience with legal foresight. We don't just write applications; we build robust foundations for your intellectual property. Drawing from our extensive track record in opposition proceedings and litigation, we anticipate potential challenges and address them proactively in our drafts.

    Whether you are a small start-up or a large corporation, we treat each application with the same level of dedication. We translate complex ideas into clear, legally sound language that protects your innovations effectively.

  • Protecting your brand is as crucial as safeguarding your innovations. Our expertise extends to comprehensive trademark services, ensuring your brand identity remains strong and secure.

    We handle every aspect of trademark protection, from initial filings to managing large, complex portfolios. Our experience in trademark opposition cases and litigation allows us to defend your trademarks effectively or challenge those that might infringe on your rights. For international protection, we draw on our worldwide network of trusted colleagues. This enables us to manage large international portfolios efficiently, ensuring consistent protection across multiple jurisdictions.

    When disputes arise, our litigation experience comes into play. We're prepared to defend your trademark rights in court, always aiming for the most favourable outcome for your business. 

    Whether you're a startup establishing your brand or a multinational maintaining a vast trademark portfolio, we offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. Our goal is to provide robust, strategic trademark protection that supports your business growth and brand value.

  • Securing patent protection requires more than just a strong application—it demands skillful navigation through the examination process. Another core competence of ours is turning patent applications into granted patents, all the while balancing scope of protection against budget.

    With thousands of successful prosecutions behind us, we understand that different office actions require different approaches. Whenever it is possible and expedient, we engage in direct dialogue with the Examiner—by phone or by mail—to efficiently overcome obstacles to patentability.

    Our prosecution strategy is always aligned with your business objectives. Whether you need broad protection for core technology or quick patent grants for specific markets, we tailor our approach accordingly. We keep you informed throughout the process, providing clear recommendations and helping you make informed decisions about the scope of protection.

  • German Employee Invention Law can be a minefield – and we help our clients get through it unharmed. The main challenge lies in working out an efficient process while ensuring compliance and maintaining good employer-employee relationships.

    From invention disclosure management to compensation calculations, we handle all aspects of employee invention law with expertise gained from decades of practice. We understand that each situation is unique—whether you're a start-up or small company establishing your first invention management system in Germany, or a multinational seeking to optimize existing processes. Our approach combines legal knowledge with pragmatic solutions tailored to your organizational structure.

    We can assist you in developing internal procedures, drafting the necessary agreements, and calculating fair compensation. When disputes arise, we provide skilled mediation services and representation before the Arbitration Board of the German Patent and Trademark Office. Our experience in both routine cases and complex disputes enables us to anticipate potential issues and address them proactively, often preventing conflicts before they emerge.

    From implementing reporting systems to managing international aspects of employee inventions, we provide comprehensive support that protects all parties' interests and ensure fair treatment of both employers and inventors.

  • In patent litigation, our expertise extends to the newly established Unified Patent Court (UPC) and beyond. With experience in patent disputes across various jurisdictions, we offer robust representation to protect your intellectual property rights.

    Our approach to UPC litigation combines deep knowledge of the new system with in-depth experience in national patent litigation. We understand the intricacies of the UPC's procedures and are well-prepared to navigate its unique challenges. From strategic case planning to courtroom advocacy, we provide comprehensive support throughout the entire litigation process.

    Beyond the UPC, our litigation experience spans multiple jurisdictions. We have successfully represented clients, all the way up to the German Federal Court of Justice, and of course in opposition proceedings before the European Patent Office. This broad experience allows us to develop multi-jurisdictional strategies that align with your business objectives.

    We recognize that litigation is often a last resort. When possible, we explore alternative dispute resolution methods, including mediation and arbitration. However, when litigation becomes necessary, we are fully prepared to vigorously defend your interests.

Some examples of our work

How can we help you?

Reach out to us - it all just starts with an email or a phone call. We can also set up an initial consultation by video call - or at our office in Munich, if you are in the area. Read about some of the highlights of our work.