Oral proceedings at the EPO – The Hague, Netherlands

This workshop will give you an overview of oral proceedings before the EPO and will comprise two parallel groups with a maximum number of 12 participants each.

The focus is on procedural matters, including appropriate reactions to situations occurring during oral proceedings, such as the hearing of witnesses and the handling of requests for apportionment of costs in opposition proceedings, as well as what (not) to do during oral proceedings.

You will have the opportunity to take part in mock oral proceedings (one per day) designed to let you experience a variety of events in real time, in a variety of roles (also unusual ones, e.g. as a member of the opposition division), with the support of a tutor. Tutors are experienced examiners and patent attorneys. You will be allocated your roles (i.e. opposition division, patent proprietor or opponent) and provided with preparatory documentation in advance of the workshop.

The workshop is aimed at professional representatives seeking to improve their practical expertise. Basic experience in oral proceedings is recommended. The workshop is not open to EQE candidates.