Although a relatively new addition to the market, Estudio Antequera Parilli & Rodríguez is rapidly gaining a reputation as one of the country's top IP practices. The firm was launched 15 years ago as an IP litigation boutique but has now expanded into all areas of intellectual property and advertising law.
The firm received outstanding client feedback and was described by peers as a tough competitor – particularly in copyright and litigation. It represents major players such as Coca-Cola, Lacoste, Bimbo, adidas and Cargill. In 2009, it coordinated 88 anti-counterfeiting operations resulting in the retrieval of more than 1.1 million pieces of clothing, footwear and other pirated goods.
"I think that they fervently defend their clients' rights and I think they know the law," remarked one rival. A client said: "I really recommend it for people looking for a reliable law firm in Venezuela." In particular, partner Ricardo Alberto Antequera, who leads the trade mark and advertising department, was singled out for praise. Another client noted: "He's very accessible, very intelligent. He understands our necessities and he works very quickly. He understands when to use a senior lawyer and when to use a junior lawyer."
Partner Manuel Antonio Rodríguez runs training programmes for government officials and authorities on IP rights and anti-counterfeiting, while partner Ricardo Antequera Parilli has been awarded the Gold Medal from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The firm recently triumphed on behalf of Direct TV Uruguay in a dispute between cable operators and a satellite broadcaster over rights for the signal for transmission of the FIFA World Cup 2010.