Dheeraj Seth

Founder & Senior IP Strategist

Did you know that the pharmaceutical intellectual property landscape has transformed into one of the most strategic arenas in global healthcare? Across the world, companies are building well-coordinated IP portfolios that not only protect innovation but also enable collaboration, sustain market leadership, and support fast-growing domains like biologics, biosimilars, gene therapies, and digital health. In India, the landscape has evolved from a process-patent regime to a sophisticated product-patent ecosystem that balances innovation with public health priorities.

However, pharma and life sciences companies face significant challenges in navigating this evolving environment. Strict regulatory compliance, dependence on imported raw materials, international trade barriers, and frequent IP disputes add layers of complexity. Additionally, pricing pressures, talent shortages, counterfeit risks and global supply chain disruptions further complicate operations. Moreover, companies also grapple with data exclusivity issues and varying compliance frameworks across jurisdictions which affect innovation, competition, and market access.

This is where D.S. Associates (DSA) steps in. With deep expertise in protecting patents, trademarks, copyrights and industrial designs across markets, the firm empowers clients to protect their innovations while mitigating risks. By integrating IP protection with pharmacovigilance and compliance systems, the firm helps companies safeguard brand reputation, clearing market space from counterfeits/ fake products and minimize legal or regulatory disruptions.

From Local to Global

Established in May 2012, the firm began by educating local business owners in Gurugram and Delhi about the importance of protecting their brands and other IP works and gradually building trust and credibility. In 2013, destiny nudged the firm beyond national borders with first international visit which opened doors to collaborations with global law firms and to long-term international partnerships.

Over the years, client portfolio grew organically, evolving from individual proprietors to private limited and public corporations. From zero clients in 2012, DSA now serves over 350 clients, reflecting consistent quality and commitment. In total, the firm has been representing reputed brands across pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, automobiles, FMCG, entertainment, liquor, telecom, aviation, media, and IT, securing IP protection not only in India but also in more than 80 countries through its strong global network.

In a nutshell, the firm has deep expertise across trademarks, copyrights, patents, designs, geographical indications, and global portfolio management, showcasing optimal prowess with respect to advising clients on complex issues such as infringement, passing off, and antipiracy actions.

Carving a Niche for Itself

Today, DSA positions itself as a strategic partner, supporting clients at every stage of their innovation journey — from creation to commercialization and enforcement. "Our motto has always been simple: deliver the best possible legal solutions in the most economical way, ensuring that cost never becomes a barrier in the client-lawyer relationship", states Dheeraj Seth, Founder & Senior IP Strategist, DSA. This client-first approach has been central to the firm’s growth and its strong reputation in the intellectual property sector.

Furthermore, the firm also provides expert guidance on due diligence, audits, and strategic partnerships, helping clients navigate complex global IP regulations, manage portfolios efficiently, and overcome crossborder regulatory and market challenges with clarity and confidence. However, what sets the firm apart is its ability to balance professionalism with human sensitivity, delivering high-quality legal solutions at economical costs.

Moreover, since its inception, the pillars on which DSA was built i.e., Proficiency, Promptness, Quality, Transparency, Assertiveness, and Sensitivity, have not only stood the test of time but have grown stronger with every passing year. These values continue to define who we are and how we work.

Blending Touch with Tech

The team at DSA believes that true excellence in IP services comes from more than legal expertise. It is rooted in discipline, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to client trust. Moreover, deadlines are treated with utmost seriousness, and every matter is tracked, reviewed, and completed well ahead of time. On the whole, the team blends legal knowledge with research-driven precision to deliver clear, accurate, and goal-aligned work across patents, trademarks, and all other IP matters. This combination of technical strength, structured processes, and empathetic client engagement continues to drive the firm’s growth while ensuring exceptional client satisfaction.

On the technology front, the firm integrates advanced digital tools for real-time IP portfolio management, enabling efficient tracking, monitoring and analysis across trademarks, patents, copyrights and designs. It strengthens client collaboration through secure virtual platforms for updates, hearings and discussions, ensuring seamless interaction from any location. Data security remains a top priority, supported by modern protocols that safeguard the handling and transfer of sensitive information. Finally, its core values of fueling sustainable growth through strategic management of its client’s IP assets remain at the heart of its work and consistently shape the firm’s identity.

A Robust Future Roadmap

DSA plans to establish its first overseas office to strengthen its engagement with international clients, provide culturally aligned support, and expand its global practice strategically. While the firm is traditionally recognized for its strong IP expertise, it aims to broaden its services into the wider corporate legal sector. Additionally, the expansion will focus on industries such as pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and technology, where innovation and regulatory complexity intersect. Going forward, the firm’s goal is to become a one-stop solution, offering comprehensive support across intellectual property, corporate advisory, compliance, transactional work, and sector-specific legal needs.