Sonoda & Kobayashi Intellectual Property Law, a prominent boutique firm established in 1998, has earned its reputation as a leader in intellectual property. Specializing in patents, trademarks, copyrights and industrial designs, the firm offers a full range of services, from application filing to enforcement, licensing and litigation.
Co-founder and managing partner Yoshitaka Sonoda highlighted the firm’s international edge, stating, “Sonoda & Kobayashi stands out for its international approach, with a diverse team of 120 professionals from 14 countries, ensuring expert handling of IP issues across different cultural and legal landscapes.” This global perspective is central to the firm’s strategy, enabling effective management of IP matters across various jurisdictions.
Ranked among the top firms in Asia for IP prosecution and enforcement, Sonoda & Kobayashi’s extensive expertise makes it a highly respected name in the industry. The firm’s experience is particularly valuable in industries where IP is crucial. “Intellectual property protection is crucial across all industries, but it becomes particularly critical in sectors like pharmaceuticals and automotive, where patents are key to maintaining market advantage,” Sonoda emphasized.
German businesses in Japan face specific challenges, including language barriers and contrasting legal systems. “German businesses in Japan face challenges such as language barriers, differing legal systems, and dissimilar business cultures, but these can be mitigated by leveraging a dependable guide having a deep understanding of both cultures,” Sonoda noted. Sonoda & Kobayashi’s multilingual capabilities, including services in German, French, Japanese, English and Chinese, effectively address these challenges.
Sonoda & Kobayashi stands out for its international approach, with a diverse team of 120 professionals from 14 countries, ensuring expert handling of IP issues across different cultural and legal landscapes.
Yoshitaka Sonoda, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Sonoda & Kobayashi Intellectual Property Law
As international IP laws evolve, Sonoda & Kobayashi remains at the forefront.
“The harmonization of IP laws is advancing, but significant differences remain between countries, highlighting the need for tailored strategies in protecting and enforcing IP rights,” Sonoda pointed out.
With globalization reshaping the IP landscape, the firm is committed to helping businesses navigate these complexities.
