Ampersand strengthens Patent Litigation practice with Klaka Partner hire in Munich

Ampersand has announced the hire of Stefan Eck as partner from KLAKA Rechtsanwälte, where he began his legal career in 2003 and was promoted to partner in 2009. The move by the end of 2025, also includes associate Maximilian Reif, a long-standing collaborator of Eck.

Broad technical expertise and high-profile litigation

Stefan Eck is widely recognised for his work in patent and utility model law, advising clients across a broad range of industries including biotechnology, chemistry, pharmaceuticals, medical technology, optics, mechanical and plant engineering, as well as general mechanics.

His recent litigation experience includes representing US bicycle components manufacturer SRAM in a patent dispute against Shimano, as well as acting for Virtual Paper Licensing in proceedings against Sony. Beyond contentious work, Eck is also experienced in drafting and negotiating licensing and R&D agreements, and has advised clients such as Algoriddim in mobile communications, and AMW and Leukocare in the biotechnology sector.

At Ampersand, Eck and Reif will join a five-lawyer patent litigation team led by founding partner Hosea Haag.

Strategic fit for Ampersand’s NPE-focused practice

Ampersand has built a strong reputation for patent litigation on behalf of non-practising entities (NPEs), particularly in mobile communications and related technologies. The firm regularly brings cases against major global players including Google, Sony, Microsoft and Tesla, acting for core clients such as Onebutton, Unwired Planet, WSOU and Arigna.

Commenting on the hire, Hosea Haag stated:“Stefan Eck’s technical breadth, strategic insight and proven litigation track record will be an outstanding complement to our team and further strengthen our cross-sectoral offering.”

Earlier this year, Ampersand also expanded its IP practice with the addition of two trademark specialists, underlining its ambition to grow across multiple IP disciplines.

Continued partner departures from KLAKA

The departure of Eck and Reif adds to a series of recent exits from KLAKA Rechtsanwälte. From 1 January 2026, experienced patent litigator Dr Wolfgang Götz and Dr Stefan Abel, an expert in trademark, design and unfair competition law, have joined Meissner Bolte’s Munich office, further reshaping the competitive landscape of the German IP market.

As 2026 begins, these moves highlight ongoing talent mobility among Germany’s leading IP boutiques, with firms actively strengthening their benches to respond to increasing litigation complexity and client demand.

Sophie Stevenard