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  • News article
  • 15 October 2024
  • European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency
  • 1 min read

Preparation of New Guidelines on EPC, PCT-EPO and Unitary Patent

On 9 October 2024, Standing Advisory Committee before the EPO Working Party on Guidelines (SACEPO WP/G) took place. In line with its commitment to incorporating user feedback, the European Patent Office (EPO) recently held the year's second meeting on the annual Guidelines revision cycle with representatives of user groups. SACEPO WP/G members were invited to review the draft Guidelines on ​EPC, PCT-EPO and Unitary Patent during the summer and share their input. 

Overall, the feedback on the drafts was positive and continues to play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of the Guidelines. Most suggestions were incorporated, shaping the final version of the texts. Members appreciated that, in many cases, content clarity was improved, and references to other legal sources were included. They also expressed satisfaction with the Office’s practice of offering detailed explanations on each comment, especially regarding suggestions that were not adopted.

A key focus of the meeting was the discussion on the Unitary Patent Guidelines, which will be published for the first time in April 2025. The Office valued the extensive comments and constructive feedback from users throughout the consultation process, which greatly supported the drafting of this inaugural edition. The discussions covered numerous aspects, including the structure, scope, and content of the Guidelines. Particular attention was given to substantive points concerning the procedures before the Unitary Patent Protection Division, responsible for processing and registering requests for unitary effect and maintaining the Unitary Patent Register.

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Publication date
15 October 2024
Author
European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency