Unlocking UPC Success:
A Five-Step Framework

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#UPC
#Guide
#Long Read
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Introduction
Navigating the Unified Patent Court can be a challenge. As seasoned litigation specialists, we've put together a concise guide to help you get to grips with the Court of First Instance: from timelines and key milestones to strategic insights. Whether you're dealing with infringement, revocation or non-infringement actions, this overview maps out the typical journey through the UPC. Of course, every case is unique, and a tailored approach may be essential, so don't hesitate to reach out for a deeper consultation.
What is the UPC?
The UPC is a new pan-European court which opened for business on 1 June 2023. It adjudicates disputes relating to European patents (unless they have been opted out), including unitary patents. Instead of litigating country-by-country, a European patent holder (whether the European patent is a unitary patent or not) can get a single judgment effective in potentially all UPC participating member states, making enforcement broader and potentially more efficient.
Below is a timeline of a hypothetical claim. The expected duration is significantly compressed versus the national courts of contracting EU member states, although the timing is dependent on court discretion and the circumstances of the claim itself.

UPC Process: A hypothetical example

Stages

1 - Prior to Claim

Strategic considerations

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Division

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Language

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Timing

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2 - Written Procedure

This stage involves the exchange of written submissions and evidence between the parties.

Claimant
Defendant

Filing of statement of claim

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Examination by Registry

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Response to defence and counterclaim, application to amend, and further pleadings

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3 - Interim Procedure

During the interim procedure, the judge-rapporteur will give directions for all necessary preparations for the oral hearing and must ensure that the procedure is conducted fairly and efficiently. There will be a significant amount of documentation, evidence and submission for the panel to consider, and thus during the interim procedure the judge-rapporteur may request that either party provide further clarification on their filed documents, answer specific questions or produce specific evidence. This may include holding one or more interim conferences.

Interim conferences*

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4 - Lorem Procedure

During the interim procedure, the judge-rapporteur will give directions for all necessary preparations for the oral hearing and must ensure that the procedure is conducted fairly and efficiently. There will be a significant amount of documentation, evidence and submission for the panel to consider, and thus during the interim procedure the judge-rapporteur may request that either party provide further clarification on their filed documents, answer specific questions or produce specific evidence. This may include holding one or more interim conferences.

Interim conferences*

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure.

5 - Lorem Procedure

During the interim procedure, the judge-rapporteur will give directions for all necessary preparations for the oral hearing and must ensure that the procedure is conducted fairly and efficiently. There will be a significant amount of documentation, evidence and submission for the panel to consider, and thus during the interim procedure the judge-rapporteur may request that either party provide further clarification on their filed documents, answer specific questions or produce specific evidence. This may include holding one or more interim conferences.

Interim conferences*

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More steps...

6 - Complete

How we can help

Speak to our  UPC team

Navigating the UPC can be complex, but our team is here to make it seamless for you. With our extensive experience and strategic approach, we ensure that your claims are handled efficiently and effectively. If this overview of the UPC was of interest to you and you would like tailored advice on a claim, please contact EIP’s Integrated UPC team

Jerome Spaargaren
Partner, UK and European Patent Attorney, UPC Representative
Angela Jack
Managing Associate, Employed Barrister
Ben Maling
Partner, UK and European Patent Attorney
Ben Willows
Partner, UK and European Patent Attorney, Design Attorney, UPC Representative
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