becK Greener
The European Patent Office (EPO) has already introduced severe cost
pending european applications
penalties (see WIPR March/April 2009) for patent applications that
• Identify applications that have been searched, but not yet examined,
include long specifications and excessive numbers of claims. It is reducing
and respond to the search report
the opportunities for amendment of applications by refusing to enter
amendments that require permission. From April 1, 2010, there will • Identify applications where divisional applications may be required,
be further restrictions on the filing of voluntary amendments, and the either because they define multiple inventions or because claims were
opportunities to file divisional applications will be curtailed. deleted in response to a unity objection
• Produce a timetable to file any required divisional applications before
But applicants can take steps now to deal with the changes. For example, in
October 1, 2010
preparing new applications, the forthcoming EPO regime should be borne
in mind. International applications already on file will be prosecuted under
• Consider requesting an accelerated search in the hope that the search report
the new regime and may need to be amended as they enter the European
is received before April 1, 2010, in order to avoid the new response deadlines
phase. Existing European applications should be reviewed to ascertain if
and voluntary amendment regime.
pre-emptive action can be taken to mitigate the effect of the changes.
www.worldipreview.com World Intellectual property review September/October 2009 43
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