Düsseldorf, Munich – The commercial law firm CMS is continuing its strategic focus on high-growth areas of law and is specifically strengthening its prestigious patent law practice – one of the most demanding and dynamic fields of activity in intellectual property law, both in technical and in commercial terms. In this context, two proven experts and well-known litigation lawyers, Dr Stephan Dorn (Düsseldorf) and Dr Constantin Kurtz (Munich), are joining the firm as partners.
"Our patent litigation practice has always been an important part of our Intellectual Property practice area. The particular technical nature, the often fundamental importance of patent law disputes for the parties involved and the new structure of the Unified Patent Court with four locations in Germany predestine this area of business for further expansion," explains Dr Martin Vorsmann, Managing Partner of CMS in Germany.
Proceedings before the UPC in particular require a high level of clout: They are not only economically important but are also conducted under considerable time pressure. Extensive technical and legal issues have to be addressed within a few months. This requires specialised, experienced teams that can also work together seamlessly across national borders. Over the past few years, CMS has systematically built up such a team in all relevant patent dispute focal points – with the latest recruitment being a key step towards securing and further developing this position.
CMS expands team with addition of two experienced partners
With Dr Stephan Dorn and Dr Constantin Kurtz, more top-class expertise is joining the CMS patent litigation practice. Both have an impressive track record – particularly in proceedings before the UPC and in the enforcement of standard-essential patents (SEPs).
"Our strategy aims to strengthen the patent litigation practice – both nationally and internationally. The growing demand from existing and new clients makes larger and more specialised teams necessary. By recruiting Dr Stephan Dorn and Dr Constantin Kurtz, we are gaining two personalities who, with their experience and market position, will hone our profile in the field of patent litigation in the long term," says Markus Deck, Head of Intellectual Property at CMS. "Both have exactly the skills that our clients are looking for – particularly in relation to UPC proceedings, SEPs and the coordination of complex patent disputes."
Dr Stephan Dorn will join the CMS team in Düsseldorf as a partner on 1 July 2025. The 46-year-old previously worked at Freshfields for eight years and is regarded as a leading lawyer in the field of SEP disputes. He has extensive experience in litigation before national courts and the UPC. "My move to CMS will allow me to develop my skills in a dynamic and international environment and work with a highly qualified team to design innovative solutions for complex patent disputes," says Stephan Dorn. "Thanks to my many years of experience in conducting major international proceedings, especially before the UPC, as well as my industry knowledge in the technology sector, I will bring new impetus to the strategic advice offered at CMS."
Dr Constantin Kurtz will also join the CMS team in Munich at partner level by the end of the year at the latest. Kurtz is considered one of the most experienced German patent litigation lawyers. He is recognised as one of the leading lawyers in the fields of mobile phone networks, semiconductor technology, mechanical engineering and interim injunction proceedings and has extensive experience in FRAND and UPC proceedings. "The move to CMS gives me the opportunity to contribute and further develop my extensive expertise in patent litigation in a team with an international orientation," explains Constantin Kurtz. "I see great opportunities to further deepen my work at the interface of competition law and alternative dispute resolution, especially as relates to the UPC."
Growth with strategic vision
With Dr Stephan Dorn and Dr Constantin Kurtz, the firm has gained two leading patent litigation partners who will significantly strengthen the patent litigation teams in Düsseldorf, Munich, nationwide and internationally, Markus Deck summarises. With their existing strategic orientation, both will be an excellent fit for CMS and open up a wide range of synergies – both with existing mandates and within the international CMS network.
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