Robert Bosch Semiconductor LLC v. Aumos Technology, Inc.

Background

Robert Bosch Semiconductor LLC previously moved for issuance of letters rogatory—formal documents requesting assistance from a court or judicial authority in another country. The court denied that earlier motion because it did not ask the court to take a specific action or provide a basis for the action, did not explain why certain certificates were attached, and did not include related documents for certification. The court allowed Bosch to renew the motion by August 11, 2025.

Bosch timely renewed its motion. It asked the court to sign and seal its Request for International Judicial Assistance. Bosch stated that it would transmit the documents to the U.S. Department of State, which would oversee transmission to Taiwan. Bosch also confirmed that it would reimburse the court, the courts of Taiwan, and the Department of State for costs and would deposit the required payment with the Department of State. It attached English and Mandarin copies of the operative complaint and the documents needed for service.

Court’s analysis

The court stated that issuing letters rogatory is discretionary. It noted that the Northern District of California had previously granted letters rogatory in cases involving Taiwanese defendants. The court found that Bosch complied with the directions given for refiling the motion and saw no reason not to grant it.

Ruling and next steps

Judge Haywood S. Gilliam, Jr. GRANTED the motions and directed the Clerk to affix the court’s signature and seal to the forms. By November 17, 2025, Bosch must file either a declaration and supporting proof confirming that Aumos has been served or a status report explaining the status of its service efforts and how much additional time it needs to serve Aumos.