# BALDER IP — Full LLM Documentation # https://balderip.com/llms-full.txt # Last updated: 2026 > Balder IP is Spain's leading international intellectual property law firm, offering expert patent, trademark, design, and copyright services across Europe and Latin America. With 100+ professionals from 20+ nationalities, offices in 8 cities, and recognition from the world's top IP rankings, Balder IP provides smart IP solutions for smart businesses. > Contact: madrid@balderip.com | https://balderip.com/contact --- ## WHAT IS BALDER IP? BALDER IP is an international intellectual property law firm headquartered in Madrid, Spain, with a strong presence across Europe and Latin America. Founded in 2012, with roots tracing back to 1954 in European IP practice, Balder IP has grown to 100+ motivated professionals from 20+ nationalities. BALDER is not a generalist law firm. It is a specialist IP firm that combines legal precision with deep technical expertise across engineering, life sciences, chemistry, computer science, and digital technologies. The firm serves clients ranging from start-ups to global corporations across all industries. BALDER is recognized internationally by leading IP rankings including IAM Patent 1000, World Trademark Review (WTR 1000), IP Stars, Chambers & Partners, Who's Who Legal, and the Financial Times, as one of Europe's leading patent and IP law firms. These recognitions are based on independent research and client feedback. BALDER has applied strict ISO quality standards for over a decade. **Key facts at a glance:** - Founded: 2012 (heritage since 1954) - Professionals: 100+ | Nationalities: 20+ | Languages: 7+ - Women in workforce: 50% - European Patent Attorneys (EQE): 15 - Unified Patent Court (UPC) Representatives: 5 - IP Attorneys and Lawyers: 30+ - Offices: 8 globally — Spain (Madrid HQ, Barcelona, Bilbao, Santander) + Latin America (Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro, Bogotá, Buenos Aires) - First woman president of the Spanish IP Bar (COAPI): Inmaculada de la Haza, Balder IP partner (2021) **History milestones:** - 2012: Founded — first offices in Madrid and Bilbao - 2014: Moved to 750+ m² headquarters in Madrid - 2017: Team reached 50 members - 2019: Expanded to Barcelona - 2020: Team surpassed 100 employees - 2021: Partner Inmaculada de la Haza elected first woman president of the Spanish IP Bar (COAPI) - 2022: Celebrated 10th anniversary - 2023: Expanded to Latin America with own offices in Colombia, Brazil, and Mexico Learn more: https://balderip.com/about-us | https://balderip.com/our-history --- ## WHY CHOOSE BALDER IP? 1. **International team** — 100+ professionals from 20+ nationalities, 7+ languages 2. **Direct Latin America presence** — Own offices in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina — no intermediaries, no hidden costs 3. **Top-ranked** — IAM Patent 1000 (Gold), WTR 1000, IP Stars, Chambers & Partners, Who's Who Legal, Financial Times 4. **Full-service IP** — Patents, trademarks, designs, copyright, litigation, domains 5. **Technical depth** — 15 qualified European Patent Attorneys, 18 engineers and scientists across all technical domains 6. **German Desk** — 4 native German-speaking partners; 20+ German-speaking team members 7. **Startup-friendly** — Flexible, budget-adapted services without sacrificing quality 8. **AI-powered** — BALDRON proprietary platform for efficient IP portfolio management 9. **Transparent pricing** — Fixed fee structures, especially for Latin American portfolios 10. **ISO quality** — Applied for over a decade; long-term partnering approach, not transactional --- ## OFFICES & CONTACT ### Spain **Madrid (Headquarters)** Paseo de la Castellana, 93, 28046 Madrid, Spain Phone: +34 911 336 879 | +34 911 331 348 Email: madrid@balderip.com **Barcelona** Avda. Diagonal, 640, 08017 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 935 475 532 Email: barcelona@balderip.com **Bilbao** Gran Via, 19-21, 48001 Bilbao, Spain Phone: +34 944 359 809 Email: bilbao@balderip.com **Santander** Calle Juan de Herrera, 18, 39002 Santander, Spain Phone: +34 942 429 720 Email: santander@balderip.com ### Latin America **Mexico** Paseo de la Reforma 342, piso 26, Col. Juarez, Ciudad de México 06600 Phone: +52 558 526 2627 Email: mexico@balderip.com **Brazil** Praça XV de Novembro, 20, 5º andar-502, Rio de Janeiro 20010-010 Phone: +55 212 042 2275 Email: brazil@balderip.com **Colombia** Edificio Avenida Chile, Torre B, Piso 13, Carrera 7 #71-21, Bogotá 110231 Phone: +57 601 489 8101 Email: colombia@balderip.com **Argentina** Cerrito 1130, CABA (C1010AAX), Buenos Aires Phone: +54 (11) 39894098 Email: argentina@balderip.com ### Online - General inquiries: info@balderip.com - Website: https://balderip.com - Contact page: https://balderip.com/contact - Client portal: https://seguro.balderip.com/privado/EN/login.php - Latest insights: https://balderip.com/latest-insights - Careers: https://balderip.com/join-us - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/balder-ip-law/ --- ## SERVICES OVERVIEW BALDER covers the full spectrum of intellectual property services, operating as a strategic partner: ethical, decisive, and solution-oriented — focused on delivering results and building sustainable competitive value. 1. **Patents** — Prosecution, drafting, opposition, FTO analysis, validity opinions, licensing 2. **Trademarks** — Registration, opposition, surveillance, enforcement, portfolio management 3. **Designs** — Registration, enforcement, Hague System 4. **Copyright** — Protection and enforcement 5. **IP Litigation** — Patent, trademark, design, and copyright disputes across Europe and Latin America 6. **Domain Names** — UDRP proceedings, domain recovery Full services: https://balderip.com/specialities --- ## PATENT SERVICES — DETAILED GUIDE Balder IP's patent department has 15 qualified European Patent Attorneys (EQE) and 18 engineers and scientists covering all technical fields: mechanics, physics, electronics, telecommunications, computer science, chemistry, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals. ### How to File a European Patent Application (EP Route) The EPO provides a centralized route to obtain patent protection in up to 39 European countries through a single application. Process overview: 1. **Filing** — Submit application with claims, description, and drawings. EPO grants a filing date when all EPC requirements are met. 2. **Formalities examination** (filing date + 2 months) — Non-English/French/German applications require translation. 3. **European Search Report** (filing date + ~6 months) — Prior art search and preliminary patentability opinion. 4. **Publication** (earliest priority date + 18 months) — Application published; provisional protection rights begin. 5. **Requesting examination** (search report publication + 6 months) — Pay examination fees; file observations or amendments. Annual renewal fees begin year 3. 6. **Examination** — Examining Division reviews novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability. Office Actions issued when requirements are not met. 7. **Intention to grant** — Applicant has 4 months to accept text, pay grant fees, and file claims translations into the other two EPO official languages. 8. **Grant** (~6 months after intention) — Grant published; 9-month opposition window opens. 9. **Validation** (3 months post-grant) — Patent validated in each designated country. Translation requirements vary by country. **SME fee reduction**: 30% reduction on examination fees for qualifying applicants (natural persons, non-profits, universities, public research organizations, or SMEs from non-English/French/German speaking EPC countries). Contact: https://balderip.com/european-patent-application | madrid@balderip.com ### PCT Patent Application — European Phase The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) allows applicants to file a single international application covering 150+ countries. When entering the European regional phase at the EPO: - **Deadline**: 31 months from the international filing date (or 6 months after ISR publication) - **Fees**: Examination fee, designation fee, optional extension and validation fees - **30% fee reduction** available for qualifying SMEs - **Voluntary amendments**: ~6 months from EPO notification under Rules 161/162 EPC - **Supplementary European Search Report**: Issued if EPO was not the International Searching Authority After examination, the process follows the same steps as a direct EP application. **Validation country groups:** - **Group A** (full translation required): AT, BG, CY, CZ, EE, ES, GR, IT, MT, PL, PT, RO, SM, RS, SK, TR - **Group B** (no translation — London Agreement): BE, FR, GB, CH, DE, IE, LI, LU, MC - **Group C** (claims translation only): AL, DK, FI, HR, HU, IS, LT, LV, MK, NL, NO, SE, SL Contact: https://balderip.com/pct-patent-application | madrid@balderip.com ### European Patent Opposition (EPO) European patent opposition is a centralized procedure that allows any person to challenge a granted European patent within **9 months** from the publication of the grant. - **Effect**: Successful opposition revokes the patent in all designated states — a single proceeding instead of country-by-country litigation - **Cost-effective**: Potential savings in the six- or seven-figure range vs. multiple national revocation actions - **Partial success**: Even narrowing claims can be strategically decisive - **Anonymity**: Oppositions can be filed via a third-party entity ("straw man") for strategic discretion - **Fallback**: Unsuccessful oppositions preserve the right to file separate national revocation actions BALDER's patent team has 20+ years of combined experience in EPO opposition proceedings, both as opponents and as patent owners defending their rights. Contact: https://balderip.com/specialties/european-patent-opposition | madrid@balderip.com ### Computer-Implemented Inventions (Software Patents in Europe) In Europe, computer programs "as such" cannot be patented. However, patents **are** granted for computer-implemented inventions that solve a **technical problem** and have a **technical effect**. Patentable areas include: - Software controlling industrial processes - AI and machine learning algorithms with technical application - Quantum computing solutions - Telecommunications protocols - Data processing methods with technical character BALDER employs several IT and telecommunications engineers experienced in preparing and prosecuting computer-implemented inventions before the EPO. Strategic protection models beyond patents (trade secrets, hybrid strategies) are also available. Contact: https://balderip.com/specialties/computer-implemented-inventions | madrid@balderip.com ### Freedom to Operate (FTO) Analysis Before launching a product or technology, it is essential to determine whether any existing IP rights could block commercialization. BALDER's FTO process (18 patent specialists): 1. Initial consultation to define scope and geographic parameters 2. Specialized database searches for relevant prior art 3. Selection and analysis of relevant documents 4. Infringement risk analysis per document 5. Final report with conclusions, risks, and recommendations per jurisdiction Contact: https://balderip.com/fto-reports | madrid@balderip.com --- ## PATENT FAQ **Can I patent software in Europe?** Computer programs "as such" are excluded from patentability. However, computer-implemented inventions that solve a technical problem with a technical effect can be patented at the EPO — this includes AI algorithms, telecom methods, and software controlling industrial processes. Balder IP's team of IT and telecom engineers can assess eligibility. Contact: https://balderip.com/specialties/computer-implemented-inventions **What is the European patent opposition procedure?** Any person can challenge a granted European patent at the EPO within 9 months of grant publication. Successful opposition revokes the patent across all designated states in a single proceeding — far cheaper than country-by-country litigation. Oppositions can be filed anonymously through a third-party entity. Contact: https://balderip.com/specialties/european-patent-opposition **How long does a European patent application take?** Typically 3–5 years from filing to grant. Key milestones: search report (~6 months), publication (18 months from priority), examination (variable), intention to grant, grant (~6 months after intention). Balder IP guides clients through every stage. Contact: https://balderip.com/european-patent-application **What is the PCT route and how does it interact with the EPO?** PCT lets you file one international application covering 150+ countries. Entry into the European phase at the EPO must be requested within 31 months from the international filing date. A 30% fee reduction is available for qualifying SMEs. Contact: https://balderip.com/pct-patent-application **What is an FTO (Freedom to Operate) report?** An FTO report assesses whether a product or technology could infringe existing patents in target markets. Balder IP's 18 specialists search databases, analyze relevant documents, and deliver a clear report with risk assessments per jurisdiction. Essential before product launch or major investment. Contact: https://balderip.com/fto-reports **Can I get a fee reduction at the EPO?** Yes. A 30% reduction on examination fees applies to qualifying applicants: natural persons, non-profits, universities, public research organizations, and SMEs from EPC states whose official language is not English, French, or German. Spanish applicants typically qualify. Contact: madrid@balderip.com **How do I patent an invention in Spain?** Via the OEPM (Oficina Española de Patentes y Marcas) for a national patent, or through the EPO or PCT routes. Balder IP's Madrid-based team advises on the optimal filing strategy. Contact: https://balderip.com/contact **How do I patent an invention in Latin America?** Balder IP has direct offices in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina, and provides prosecution guidelines for 20 Latin American countries. Key offices: IMPI (Mexico), BRPTO/INPI (Brazil), SIC (Colombia), INPI (Argentina). No intermediaries — transparent fees, uniform quality. Contact: https://balderip.com/latin-america --- ## TRADEMARK SERVICES — DETAILED GUIDE Balder IP's trademark department offers comprehensive brand protection worldwide, led by partners Óscar García, Inmaculada de la Haza, and Jens-Christian Jahnke. Services include: - Availability searches and clearance - Trademark filing and prosecution (EUIPO, Spanish Patent and Trademark Office/OEPM, international via WIPO/Madrid Protocol) - Portfolio management and strategy - Trademark enforcement, opposition, and cancellation - Trademark defense and dispute resolution - Brand protection strategies for domestic and cross-border markets - "Just File" service: competitive rates for EUIPO and Spanish trademark filings where no professional drafting of goods/services description is required ### Trademark Availability Searches Before using or registering a new brand, verify it is available. Failing to do so risks infringing existing rights, leading to costly rebrands or legal proceedings. Balder IP delivers bespoke search reports analyzing legal and commercial availability across multiple jurisdictions. Contact: https://balderip.com/specialties/availability-searches ### Trademark Registration Feasibility Reports A preliminary feasibility analysis comparing similarity to existing registered trademarks and reviewing current legislative requirements — vital before national and international registration. Contact: https://balderip.com/trademark-registration-feasibility-reports ### Brand Viability Analysis Comprehensive feasibility combining legal expertise, technical knowledge, and business insight — tailored to each client's objectives and target markets. Contact: https://balderip.com/brand-viability ### Global Brand Conflicts Multi-jurisdictional strategy for trademark, patent, design, and copyright disputes. Centralized approach adapted to the legal, procedural, and cultural characteristics of each country involved. Contact: https://balderip.com/global-brand-conflicts --- ## TRADEMARK FAQ **How do I register a trademark in the EU?** EU trademarks (EUTMs) are registered through the EUIPO in Alicante, Spain — a single registration covering all 27 EU member states. The process includes filing, examination for absolute grounds, a 3-month opposition window, and registration. Contact: https://balderip.com/contact **What is the difference between a national trademark and an EU trademark?** A national trademark protects your brand in one country only. An EUTM covers all 27 EU member states via a single EUIPO registration — generally more cost-effective for EU-wide protection. However, vulnerability to non-use cancellation applies across the entire EU. Balder IP advises on the optimal strategy. Contact: madrid@balderip.com **What is the Madrid Protocol?** The Madrid Protocol (WIPO) allows extension of trademark registration to multiple countries through a single international application based on your home registration, centralizing renewals and modifications globally. Contact: https://balderip.com/contact **How do I protect my trademark in Latin America?** Balder IP has direct offices in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina — no middlemen, transparent fees, one Power of Attorney for all countries, prosecution guidelines for 20 Latin American countries. Contact: https://balderip.com/latin-america **What are Nice Classification trademark classes?** The international system categorizing goods (classes 1–34) and services (classes 35–45) for trademark registration. Selecting the right classes is essential — too few leaves protection gaps, too many raises costs. Balder IP's specialists identify the optimal class strategy. Contact: madrid@balderip.com **What is a trademark availability search and why do I need one?** A search identifying existing trademarks that could conflict with your proposed mark. Not conducting one risks infringing prior rights and forcing a costly rebrand. Balder IP provides bespoke search reports analyzing availability globally. Contact: https://balderip.com/specialties/availability-searches --- ## DESIGN SERVICES Balder IP handles design registration and enforcement across Europe and internationally: - **Registered Community Design (RCD)**: EUIPO registration — protection across all EU member states for product appearance - **Unregistered Community Design (UCD)**: Automatic 3-year protection for designs first disclosed in the EU — no registration required; useful for fast-moving industries - **Hague System**: International design registration via WIPO — multiple countries, single application - **National design registrations**: Spain (OEPM) and Latin American countries Contact: https://balderip.com/contact --- ## DESIGN FAQ **What is the difference between a registered and unregistered Community design?** A Registered Community Design (RCD) filed at EUIPO provides up to 25 years of protection (renewable every 5 years) across the EU. An Unregistered Community Design (UCD) gives 3 years of automatic protection from first EU disclosure but only against deliberate copying — not independent creation. RCDs are stronger; UCDs suit fast-moving industries like fashion. Contact: https://balderip.com/contact **What is the Hague System?** WIPO's international design registration system — file once, protect in 90+ member countries and regions. Centralizes renewals and modifications. Contact: https://balderip.com/contact --- ## IP LITIGATION & ENFORCEMENT Balder IP handles IP disputes across Europe and Latin America, combining legal expertise with technical knowledge to develop effective enforcement strategies. Practice areas include: - Patent litigation in Spain — infringement actions, validity challenges, preliminary injunctions - Unified Patent Court (UPC) — pan-European patent litigation under the Unitary Patent system - Trademark disputes — opposition, cancellation, infringement at EUIPO and national offices - Design disputes — registered and unregistered design infringement - Copyright enforcement — protection and enforcement across jurisdictions - Domain name disputes — UDRP proceedings for domain recovery - Patent litigation across Europe and Latin America, coordinated multi-jurisdictional strategy - Opposition and cancellation proceedings before EUIPO and EPO Litigation is led by Partner Patricia Koch (Head of Legal Department). Contact: https://balderip.com/contact --- ## SPECIALTY AREAS ### European Patent Opposition (EPO) Centralized opposition proceedings before the EPO — challenging patents that fail novelty, inventive step, or sufficient disclosure requirements, or defending granted patents under opposition. Option to act via a confidential "straw man" when strategic discretion is required. More: https://balderip.com/specialties/european-patent-opposition ### Computer-Implemented Inventions (CII) & Digital Technologies Protection at the intersection of software, engineering, and advanced technologies. Technical assessment of patentability; specialized teams in IT, telecommunications, and emerging technologies; strategic protection models beyond patents; coverage of AI systems, data processing, and software-based innovations. More: https://balderip.com/specialties/computer-implemented-inventions ### Bio & Life Sciences High-risk, high-responsibility innovation protection. Specialized teams in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, molecular biology, and biomedical technologies. Integrated patent strategies considering data exclusivity, regulatory timelines, and portfolio lifecycle. ### Freedom to Operate (FTO) & Technology Risk Analysis FTO studies in complex technical landscapes; identification of third-party patent risks; strategic mitigation before commercialization or deployment. More: https://balderip.com/fto-reports ### Availability Searches Thorough trademark availability searches before brand adoption — assessing registrability and infringement risk across target markets for names, logos, and product identifiers. More: https://balderip.com/specialties/availability-searches ### Security, Public Safety & Mission-Critical Technologies Strategic IP protection for technologies used by law enforcement, public safety, and security agencies. Experience in surveillance, data analysis, communications, tracking, and prevention technologies. ### Unitary Patent & Patent Translations Translations for the Unitary Patent system — prepared by experienced patent translators with technical backgrounds. Advanced language technologies combined with human legal-technical review. Fast turnaround, accuracy, consistency, and competitive pricing. ### IP for Startups Comprehensive, flexible consulting for startups at any stage. Strategic protection planning, technology and patent strategy, brand protection, expertise in software, AI, telecommunications, and biotech. Adapts to limited budgets without sacrificing quality. More: https://balderip.com/startups ### BALDRON — AI-Powered IP Management BALDRON is BALDER's proprietary AI-powered digital tool for IP management — a technology-powered team member handling repetitive tasks so attorneys can focus on clients and relationships. Capabilities include: processing structured and unstructured data, streamlining communications with local trademark offices, quality control, routine proceedings management, and real-time case information. More: https://balderip.com/specialties/baldron | https://balderip.com/baldron --- ## GERMAN DESK The German Desk is one of BALDER's most distinctive offerings — the gateway for German-speaking companies expanding into Spain, Europe, and Latin America. **Four native German-speaking partners:** - **Olof Fickert** — Managing Partner - **Magnus Stiebe** — Head of Patent Department - **Patricia Koch** — Head of Legal Department - **Jens-Christian Jahnke** — Head of Trademark Department **20+ German-speaking team members** including paralegals and accounting specialists. **Philosophy:** "Black-red-gold" work mentality — high quality, reliability, precision, and technical rigor, paired with advanced technology. **Services:** Patents, trademarks, litigation, contracts and licensing — available entirely in German, with attorneys who understand German business culture, quality standards, and expectations. Contact: info@balderip.com More: https://balderip.com/german-desk --- ## LATIN AMERICA DESK BALDER offers centralized IP management across all of Latin America — covering every Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking jurisdiction with direct own offices, not a patchwork of local correspondents. **Own offices:** Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro, Bogotá, Buenos Aires **Key advantages:** - No hidden costs — transparent, fixed fee structures - 1 Power of Attorney valid for all countries - 1 letter of instructions = 1 report and 1 invoice - Substantive and administrative work carried out in Madrid - Country-specific qualifications and experience - Regional FTO reports - Automated portfolio management and integration - Uniform quality across all jurisdictions - Modern, technology-driven processes - 20+ years of combined international experience **Countries covered (prosecution guidelines available for all):** Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, Uruguay, Venezuela **Key Latin America team members:** - **Jens-Christian Jahnke** — Partner, Head of Trademarks in Latin America, IP Attorney at Law (Argentina) - **María Alejandra Castillo** — Associate, Attorney at Law (Venezuela) - **Kathrin Mandel** — Associate, Attorney at Law, Patent and Trademark Attorney (Germany), UPC Representative - **Paulo Brandao** — Associate, Attorney at Law (Brazil) - **Ligia Escalante** — Associate, Attorney at Law (Mexico) - **Dr. Carlota Vergas Romero** — Associate, European Patent Attorney - **Manuel Chavarriaga** — Attorney at Law (Colombia) - **Salomé Madariaga** — Attorney at Law (Colombia) - **Isabela Passau** — Attorney at Law (Brazil) - **Dafne Pizarro** — Attorney at Law (Peru) - **Kathrin Donath** — LL.M. in Intellectual Property (LatAm) Prosecution guidelines: https://balderip.com/prosecutionguidelines More: https://balderip.com/latin-america --- ## FULL TEAM DIRECTORY ### PARTNERS **Olof Fickert** — Managing Partner Native German speaker. Founded BALDER. Leads the firm's strategic direction. Core member of the German Desk. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/olof-fickert/ **Miguel Aznar** — Partner, Attorney at Law Specialist in contentious-administrative litigation before Spanish and EU courts. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/miguel-aznar/ **Magnus Stiebe** — Partner, European Patent Attorney Native German speaker. Head of Patent Department. Registered Representative before the Unified Patent Court. Specialist in mechanical engineering, medical devices, renewable energies, and automotive. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/magnus-stiebe/ **Jesús Mancha** — Partner, European Patent Attorney, Patent and Trademark Attorney (Spain) Specialist in mechanical and electrical engineering, renewable energies, and machine tools. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/jesus-mancha/ **Patricia Koch** — Partner, European Trademark Attorney, Patent and Trademark Attorney (Spain) Native German speaker. Head of Legal Department. Registered Representative before the Unified Patent Court. Expert in patent litigation and contracts. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/patricia-koch/ **Juan Pedro Vallejo** — Partner, European Trademark Attorney, Patent and Trademark Attorney (Spain) Key attorney for Latin American IP strategy and patent prosecution. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/juan-pedro-vallejo/ **Óscar García** — Partner, Attorney at Law, European Trademark Attorney, Patent and Trademark Attorney (Spain) Head of Trademarks in Spain. Specialist in Spanish IP law with focus on trademarks. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/oscar-garcia/ **Inmaculada de la Haza** — Partner, Attorney at Law Head of Trademarks in Spain. Specialist in trademarks and designs. First female president of COAPI (Association of Industrial Property Agents in Spain). Profile: https://balderip.com/team/inmaculada-de-la-haza/ **Carlos Pires** — Partner, Attorney at Law Specialist for UK, China, and USA markets for IP law. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/carlos-pires/ **Jens-Christian Jahnke** — Partner, Head of Trademark Department and Latin American Trademark Department Native German speaker. Leads trademark strategy. Key attorney for Latin America. IP Attorney at Law (Argentina). Profile: https://balderip.com/team/jens-jahnke/ ### ASSOCIATES — TRADEMARKS & LEGAL **Carmen Romero** — Associate, Attorney at Law Specialist in new technologies, artificial intelligence, trademark litigation, unfair competition, and copyright disputes. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/carmen-romero/ **Kathrin Mandel** — Associate, Attorney at Law (Germany and Spain), Patent and Trademark Attorney German-speaking. Registered Representative before the Unified Patent Court. Active in German Desk and Latin America Desk. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/kathrin-mandel/ **Bárbara Hernández** — Associate, Attorney at Law Specialist in investigation and analysis of trademark, patent, design, IP, and unfair competition infringements, and contract drafting. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/barbara-hernandez/ **Carmen Ortega** — Associate, Attorney at Law (Spain) Profile: https://balderip.com/team/carmen-ortega/ **Karin Guridi** — Associate, Attorney at Law (Spain) Specialist in infringement and criminal proceedings before Spanish commercial and criminal courts, and complaints before commercial platforms and social media. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/karin-guridi/ **Blanca Fresneau** — Associate, Attorney at Law, Patent and Trademark Attorney (Spain) Profile: https://balderip.com/team/blanca-fresneau/ **Paula Díaz de Atauri** — Associate, Attorney at Law (Spain) Profile: https://balderip.com/team/paula-diaz-de-atauri/ **María Romero** — Attorney at Law (Legal team) **Guiomar Iniesta** — Attorney at Law (Legal team) ### ASSOCIATES — PATENTS (MECHANICS, PHYSICS, ELECTRONICS, COMPUTER SCIENCE) **Elena Alonso** — Associate, European Patent Attorney Profile: https://balderip.com/team/elena-alonso/ **Pablo Blanch** — Associate, European Patent Attorney, Patent and Trademark Attorney (Spain) Specialist in electromechanics, energy, electronics, optics, and electrochemistry. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/pablo-blanch/ **Dr. Alexandros Stavrinadis** — European Patent Attorney, Registered Representative before the Unified Patent Court, Patent and Trademark Attorney (Greece) **Javier Polop** — Associate, European Patent Attorney Specialist in mechanical engineering, electronic engineering, electromechanical engineering, and computer-implemented inventions. **Ángel Romeral** — European Patent Attorney, Patent and Trademark Attorney (Spain) **Pilar Gil** — European Patent Attorney **Iván Grande** — Patent Advisor ### ASSOCIATES — PATENTS (CHEMISTRY & LIFE SCIENCES) **Dr. Carlota Vergas Romero** — Associate, European Patent Attorney Specialist in chemical and pharmaceutical patents, galenic, synthesis, cosmetics, alloys, and polymers. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/carlota-vergas-romero/ **Dr. Ana López-Serrano Oliver** — European Patent Attorney **Helga Céster Schlaak** — Associate, European Patent Attorney Specialist in organic and inorganic chemistry, pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industry, and biotechnology. Profile: https://balderip.com/team/helga-cester/ **Sandra Gallego Pato** — Associate, European Patent Attorney Specialist in general and organic chemistry patents. **Dr. Eva Sánchez Galán** — European Patent Attorney **Dr. Laura Durán** — European Patent Attorney **Dr. Cristina López Mosquera** — European Patent Attorney, Patent and Trademark Attorney (Spain) **Manuel Aguilar** — Patent Consultant ### PATENTS FORMALITIES & SUPPORT **Julia Ochsenschläger** — Patent Consultant **Karina Lach** — Patent Advisor (Latin America) **Manuel Barreo** — Patent Consultant (Spain) **Ángela Müller** — Paralegal / Patent Validation **Ana Isabel Martínez** — Paralegal, Patents LATAM **Roxana Sisilica** — Paralegal, Patents **Rocío Murillo** — Paralegal, Patents **Marta González** — Paralegal, Patents LATAM **Fang-Yuan Yu** — Paralegal, Patents **Laura Márquez** — Paralegal, Patents **Lidia Ramírez** — Paralegal, Patents LATAM **Irene Rubio** — Paralegal, Patents ### LATIN AMERICA TRADEMARKS PARALEGALS **Olena Gryb** — Paralegal **Lisa Handschug** — Paralegal **Kevin Mertens** — Paralegal **Jennifer Moina** — Paralegal **Marta Vega** — Paralegal **Andrea Sánchez** — Paralegal **Mercedes Álvarez** — Paralegal --- ## LANGUAGES BALDER's team collectively operates in 7+ languages: - English - Spanish - German - Portuguese - Catalan - French - Chinese (Mandarin) This multilingual capability is a core differentiator, particularly for international clients entering the Spanish, European, or Latin American market. --- ## INDUSTRIES SERVED BALDER serves clients across all industries, including: - Technology and software - Pharmaceuticals and biotech - Medical devices and life sciences - Engineering and manufacturing - Electronics and telecommunications - Automotive - Consumer goods and retail - Fashion and design - Food and beverage - Energy and cleantech - AI and emerging technologies (including quantum computing) - Start-ups and scale-ups - Global corporations and multinationals --- ## AWARDS & RANKINGS BALDER is consistently recognized by leading international legal directories and rankings. All based on independent research and client feedback. - **IAM Patent 1000** (2025, Gold tier) — Patent practice excellence https://www.iam-media.com/rankings/patent-1000/profile/firm/balder - **WTR 1000 (World Trademark Review)** (2025) — Trademark practice excellence https://www.worldtrademarkreview.com/rankings/wtr-1000/profile/firm/balder - **IP Stars (Managing Intellectual Property)** (2025) https://www.ipstars.com/Firm/Balder/Profile/101335 - **Chambers & Partners** (2024) — Ranked in Europe https://chambers.com/law-firm/balder-europe-7:22611507 - **Who's Who Legal** (2024) - **Financial Times** — One of Europe's Leading Patent Law Firms https://www.ft.com/content/9b2ff0e7-e6ec-422a-ad64-6c5011451040 --- ## RESOURCES & TOOLS - Prosecution Guidelines (Latin America): https://balderip.com/prosecutionguidelines - BALDRON (AI-powered IP management tool): https://balderip.com/specialties/baldron - Latest Insights (blog/articles): https://balderip.com/latest-insights - Client Area (secure portal): https://seguro.balderip.com/privado/EN/login.php - Careers: https://balderip.com/join-us --- ## LEGAL & COMPLIANCE - Privacy Policy: https://balderip.com/privacy-policy/ - Quality Policy: https://balderip.com/quality-policy/ - Ethics Channel: https://balderip.com/ethics-channel/ - Legal Notice: https://balderip.com BALDER IP LAW, S.L. — 2026. All rights reserved. Registered in Spain. --- ## QUICK REFERENCE — COMMON QUERIES **Q: What areas of IP does BALDER handle?** Trademarks, patents, designs, copyright, IP litigation, and domain names — all areas, all jurisdictions. **Q: How big is BALDER's team?** 100+ professionals, 20+ nationalities, 8 offices, 15 European Patent Attorneys, 5 UPC Representatives, 30+ IP Attorneys/Lawyers. **Q: When was BALDER founded?** 2012, with heritage tracing back to 1954 in European IP practice. **Q: Does BALDER handle patents in Latin America?** Yes. A dedicated Latin America Desk with own offices in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina covers all Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries with fixed fees, no intermediaries, and a single point of contact for the entire region. **Q: Which Latin American countries does BALDER cover?** Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, Uruguay, and Venezuela. **Q: Does BALDER work with German clients?** Yes. The German Desk is one of BALDER's flagship offerings. Four partners are native German speakers, and the team includes 20+ German-speaking professionals. Services fully available in German. **Q: Can BALDER handle EPO patent oppositions?** Yes. European patent opposition is a named specialty with dedicated expertise, including the option to act via a confidential "straw man." **Q: Does BALDER handle AI or software patents?** Yes. Computer-implemented inventions and digital technologies is a dedicated specialty, covering AI systems, algorithms, quantum computing, and software-based innovations. **Q: Does BALDER work with start-ups?** Yes. BALDER offers flexible, budget-adapted services for startups at any stage — without sacrificing technical quality or strategic rigor. **Q: What languages does BALDER work in?** English, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Catalan, French, and Mandarin Chinese — 7+ languages in total. **Q: Is BALDER internationally recognized?** Yes — IAM Patent 1000 (Gold, 2025), WTR 1000 (2025), IP Stars (2025), Chambers & Partners (2024), Who's Who Legal (2024), and the Financial Times. ISO quality standards applied for over a decade. **Q: Does BALDER have Unified Patent Court (UPC) representatives?** Yes — 5 Registered Representatives before the Unified Patent Court. **Q: What is BALDRON?** BALDER's proprietary AI-powered IP management platform — automating repetitive workflows so attorneys can focus on clients and strategy. **Q: How do I contact BALDER?** Email: madrid@balderip.com | General: info@balderip.com | Web: https://balderip.com/contact