Asia Pacific - Band 1
What the team is known for An innovative offering with core strength in China, as well as Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam. Also has an office in Myanmar with a dedicated IP team stationed there. Aids clients on a variety of IP issues, with a focus on infringement actions in respect of patents and copyright, anti-counterfeiting matters and domain name disputes. Maintains an impressive client roster among technology and food and drink companies. Regularly acts at all court levels in related litigations across Asia. Additional expertise in providing advice on IP transfer procedures arising out of corporate transactions.
Strengths "We have been extremely happy with the work provided by Rouse. They are very responsive, provide knowledgeable and practical advice, and send communication that is easy to read and understand with a clear request for our input when needed," one pleased client says.
A client explains that the team "has deep market knowledge and good insights regarding the situation in the Philippines, as well as valuable connections with authorities and investigators."
Clients reflect positively on the overall service, one noting: "If they are reporting something they will let you know if it's a hard deadline or extendable. They are also good at telling you how to proceed."
Another client adds: "I appreciated their knowledge of the local laws of multiple countries that impact our business."
A source appreciates that the team is "professional and prompt when attending to queries."
Another contributor adds: "I've been very impressed with Rouse's expertise in dealing with complicated and tricky matters. We rely on them for in-depth analysis of trade mark matters, and I've been impressed with their responsiveness and willingness to drop everything to get on the phone and walk us through issues."
"Rouse is knowledgeable and provides practical advice," says one interviewee.
Work highlights Acted for Spin Master on a patent infringement case against Guangzhou Lingdong Creative Culture Technology in the Suzhou Intermediate Court concerning the 'Bakugan' children's toy series. The team obtained a favourable ruling for the client.
Assisted Hermes with the filing of a mark and appealing IP Vietnam's disclaimer against a part of the mark.
Represented Komipharm International in its appeal to the Thai Trademark Appeal Board, after its application for the Panaphix mark was initially rejected due to a prior trade mark registration.
Acted for Singer in an investigation into the distribution of counterfeit sewing machines.
Successfully represented Levi Strauss in an action for trade mark misuse against a local party in Indonesia.
Notable practitioners
Linda Chang is a key contact for the China IP practice and Manoon Changchumni is a key contact for Thailand. Chow Kin Wah is a key contact for the Indonesia IP practice.
China - Band 2
What the team is known for Substantial group with practitioners working from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hong Kong. Active across all aspects of IP issues, with an especially good reputation for trade mark enforcement and protection work. Benefits from a growing patent litigation offering. High-profile clientele includes a number of leading technology companies. Advises international businesses on transactional IP matters and IP issues related to entry into China, as well as acting for domestic companies on outbound matters in South-East Asia. Leverages the support of its close association with PRC firm and patent agency Lusheng Law Firm.
Strengths "We have been extremely happy with the work provided by Rouse. They are very responsive, provide practical advice, and send communication that is easy to read and understand, with a clear request for our input when needed," one appreciative client comments.
"I've been very impressed with Rouse's expertise in dealing with complicated and tricky matters," reveals another client, adding: "We rely them on their in-depth analysis of trade mark matters, and I've been impressed with their responsiveness and willingness to drop everything to get on the phone and walk us through issues."
Notable practitioners
Director
Chris Vale maintains a healthy practice in the Asia Pacific region, with a strong focus in South-East Asia, particularly Vietnam and Cambodia. He specialises in patent and trade mark litigation as he frequently deals with cross-border disputes. A client comments that he "really stood out," adding that "he was great at using his team in an efficient way to thoroughly investigate our issues and help problem-solve."
Douglas Clark is held in high esteem for his depth of experience in IP litigation and arbitration, most notably in cross-border patent infringement matters. Sources highlight him as a "very, very strong lawyer," reporting that "he knows his stuff" and "you cannot fault him on anything." Having spent almost a decade practising as an intellectual property barrister, he joined Rouse in early 2020 to lead the firm's global dispute resolution practice.
Linda Chang has noteworthy expertise handling contentious cases relating to bad faith trade mark registration, in addition to invalidation actions and infringement cases. One commentator confirms she is "very solid in trade mark work," with another reporting: "Linda has won some remarkable trade mark and copyright judgments."
Rachel Tan has extensive experience advising on trade mark clearance, protection and enforcement matters, as well as advising companies on the overall management of their IP portfolios. Interviewees comment on her strong reputation among clients, explaining that "she always thinks one step ahead when providing trade mark advice for clients" and is "quick to respond with guidance when needed."
Individuals
Chris Vale - Foreign expert for Vietnam
United Arab Emirates
What the team is known for Highly reputed boutique acting on the full scope of contentious and non-contentious IP matters. Contentious capabilities encompass trade mark and patent infringement, counterfeiting and brand protection as well as unfair competition issues. Praised for assisting clients through the whole life-cycle of litigation, from pre-litigation advisory work to court proceedings. Non-contentious skills include providing marketing and advertising advice to significant international chains. Also handles trade mark portfolios, dealing with issues of clearance and applications.
Strengths A peer referred to the partners as "leaders who are dedicated to the UAE and have a longstanding background in the region."
A client also appreciated that "they provide succinct, no-fuss and prompt advice on regional laws, regulations and practices," also pointing out that "their clear understanding of our and our clients' industries contributes to us maintaining a high standard of service."
Work highlights Successfully defended Emirates Shipping Line in litigation proceedings to secure its trade mark registration. The case set a precedent on the right to use geographical names in trade marks.
Notable practitioners
Bassel El Turk is well known for his strength in trade mark litigation and enforcement matters. A peer commented: "His IP litigation skills are impressive," while other market sources confirm: "He is an excellent advocate."
Co-head of the global patent and technology practice
Sara Holder is held in a distinguished position by the market for her lengthy IP experience. She acts across the full spectrum of intellectual property forms, receiving particular praise for her strength in contentious trade mark and patent work. Peers comment: "Her patent expertise is of high quality."