Strategies to Help Prepare for Europe’s New Unitary Patent System: Preparing for the Upheaval

Since the 1970s, Europe has had two avenues toward procuring patent rights. In 1973, the European Patent Convention (EPC) created the European Patent Office (EPO) as a regional patent examination and granting authority. EPC Member States also retained national patent systems, which coexist with the EPO. Most applicants are accustomed to the idea of having both the EPO and the national offices available for their European filing strategies. The recent creation of the Unitary Patent System (UPS) and the Unitary Patent adds another layer of complexity to filing decisions, because it provides yet another route to obtain patent protection in at least some portion of the European Union (EU). The UPS is coming and now is the time to prepare.

With implementation fast approaching, please join us as we discuss:

• The Fundamental Structure of the Unitary Patent System
• The Unitary Patent: What It Is and How It Will Change Your Practice
• Understanding the Difference Between a Unitary Patent, a European Patent, and a National Patent and Why All Three are Viable Options for Our Clients
• Prosecution Strategies to Consider
• Enforcement Options and Creation of the Unified Patent Court

MCLE Credit: Finnegan confirms that this activity has been certified for 1.75 hours of California MCLE.

Moderator:
Erik R. Puknys

Speaker:
Anthony C. Tridico, Ph.D.

Date:
Thursday, November 14, 2013

Time:
2:15 - 2:30 p.m. - Registration
2:30 - 4:30 p.m. - Program
4:30 - 6:00 p.m. - Reception

Location:
Quadrus Conference Center
2400 Sand Hill Road
Menlo Park, CA 94025