REGISTER NOW for the ECTA 42nd Annual Conference in Antwerp!

We will kickstart the Conference academic program by learning more about IP mediation and ADR in a session moderated by F. Peter Müller, Müller Schupfner & Partner, DE.

1. Introduce yourself and your link to ECTA.

My name is F. Peter Müller and I have the honour to moderate the Wednesday workshop on ADR in the IP field together with representatives from the EUIPO and practitioners from the EU, China, and the US.

I have been a member of ECTA since 1996 and served as President between 2014 and 2016. Currently, I am Chair of the newly established Patent Committee.

I think ECTA is one of the best IP associations in the EU, especially because it brings together business opportunities, scientific discussions on IP, very valuable knowledge for my IP practice and good friends.

2. Introduce the topic of your Conference session.

Our workshop delves into mediation and related ADR solutions on IP disputes, including oppositions, revocation actions, infringement actions - covering also patents - and this in an international environment.

Speakers will talk about the new EUIPO Mediation Centre, ADR Resolutions in China and the US, the Singapore Convention, offering practical advice for initiating and conducting successful mediations while minimising time and costs. Additionally, attendees will gain insights from successful mediation cases shared by the speakers.

3. Introduce the panel of your Conference session.

I am pleased to introduce our distinguished panel:

• Sven Stürmann, EUIPO, ES
• Michele Ferrante, Ferrante Intellectual Property, CN
• Aurélia Marie, Cabinet Beau de Loménie, FR
• Lisa Pearson, Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP, US

4. Why should Conference participants join your session, and at whom in particular will your session be directed?

While tailored for litigators, I also recommend prosecutors to attend to understand what will happen to your IP rights if caught in negotiations.

This session is also particularly beneficial for newcomers to ADR and young practitioners, but even experienced litigators might gain some new insights!

5. Why should IP colleagues register for the ECTA Annual Conference?

The ECTA Annual Conference, which I have been attending for nearly 30 years now, offers a wealth of new information on current IP issues, aiding in the design of future applications and refining lists of goods and services. You will gain practical knowledge, which you can use immediately after the Conference.

Moreover, you get to know colleagues from all over the world, fostering new business contacts, and the chance to assist EU colleagues, especially in disputes. Beyond its professional benefits, the Conference is always fun and attendees will make many friends there.

**Find out more about the other educational sessions here or watch the video teaser about the academic program here!**