Starting news article english 29 November 2011

Clifford Chance successfully represents OSRAM in patent infringement proceedings against Dominant Semiconductors

Clifford Chance successfully represented OSRAM AG and its subsidiary OSRAM Opto Semiconductors GmbH in second instance proceedings against the Malaysian LED manufacturer Dominant Semiconductors Sdn. Bhd.

In its decision, the Higher Regional Court of Karlsruhe found that the LEDs manufactured and distributed by Dominant Semiconductors infringe several OSRAM patents and utility models. The further distribution of these LEDs by Dominant Semiconductors was prohibited. In addition, both regarding these IP-Rights and a number of expired rights the judges held that the defendant is liable to pay damages.

Above all, with Clifford Chance's support, OSRAM managed to extend the scope of the second instance proceedings to additional patents issued during the proceedings. As a result, the Higher Regional Court of Karlsruhe also prohibited Dominant's further distribution of numerous white LEDs from its product portfolio.

The Senate denied any leave to appeal, but the deadline for appealing against this denial has yet to expire.

The Clifford Chance team representing OSRAM in both instances included partner Dr. Thorsten Vormann and counsel Dr. Anette Gärtner (both IP, Frankfurt).