Successfully Conducting Oral Proceedings at the EPO (European Patent Office) Training Course

Course overview

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.

This course is part of our collection of IP & Patents Training Courses.

Benefits of attending

By attending this programme you will:

• Understand how oral proceedings work
• Gain insider information on how to get your case ready
• Get to grips with what to do on the day and be prepared for the unexpected
• Learn the techniques needed to achieve best results

Who should attend?

This one-day course has been specially designed for recently qualified, or part qualified, European Patent Attorneys, as well as those who are looking for a refresher and those who want to learn some new skills and extend their knowledge in this vital area.

Delegates will be familiar with EPO patent practice in general and have a good knowledge of at least the basic law governing oral proceedings. 

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