Sonoda & Kobayashi Intellectual Property Law

Shinjuku Mitsui Building suite 3401 2-1-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
〒163-0434 Tokyo
Japan

Telephone: +81-3-5339-1093
Fax: +81-3-5339-1093

E-mail: mailbox@patents.jp
Website: www.patents.jp

About us

Our multinational team of about 90 experts in technology, law, languages and international communication has served companies worldwide and gained a reputation for thoroughness and reliability. Our high standards, expertise and team work have defined us since the founding of the firm in 1998.

We discuss options, adapt to clients needs, and offer tailored communication, as well as analyses and proposals for cost-effective services. Reliable legal services in IP can only be provided by having a deep understanding of technologies and legal issues. Our patent attorneys and specialists are equipped with world-class training and hands-on experience, often directly in R&D, which can be crucial in difficult cases. Approximately half of our attorneys and specialists hold doctorates. 

We represent applicants in filing, prosecution and registration procedures for IP protection under Japanese Patent, Utility Model, Trademark and Design Laws. We also file oppositions, nullity actions and court actions. We provide legal advice for IP matters, including unfair competition, copyrights, search services, expert opinions, licensing assistance... 

We are always keen to know more about client business strategies and the way they view competitors and technological trends, and we help clients understand Japanese practices. We monitor changing laws and legal practices in Japan, Europe, the US and other jurisdictions.Understanding differences in laws and practices between those of Japan and those that our clients are familiar with help us provide the most productive services.