Successfully Conducting Oral Proceedings at the EPO

Oral proceedings can occur during any stage of a European application; they are organised to conclude the majority of appeal cases, and in many opposition and examination cases. Are you up to date with the latest practice and procedures in the EPO?

A European patent attorney will almost certainly at some point have to contest a case in oral proceedings, either to defend a client’s invention or to attack a patent held by a competitor. Your first experience of oral proceedings can be intimidating, particularly since both the legal procedure and the facts and arguments of the case may take unexpected turns. Unlike in written proceedings, you need to react quickly and decisively whenever a surprise occurs.

To defend your client’s interests correctly and competently it is vital to know what to expect at this European level and to be properly prepared for it. This workshop style programme gives participants the opportunity to become up-to-date on current practice in the EPO and to develop the necessary practical skills and confidence in preparing for and appearing at oral proceedings at all levels of the EPO.

The expert trainer will share his inside knowledge and experience, and give invaluable practical and strategic advice that would otherwise require a lot of trial and error to acquire.

The EPC, EPO Guidelines, relevant case law, and the Rules of Procedure of the Board of Appeal will be discussed and referred to throughout the course when relevant.