Main Navigation

Sub Navigation


Cross-reference list
EPC 1973 EPC 2000
Art. 101 Art. 101


Main Content

URL: Location: HomePatentsLawLegal texts

European Patent Convention (EPC 1973)

A revised version of the European Patent Convention entered into force on 13 December 2007. The provisions of the revised Convention apply unless the transitional provisions provide for the applicability of the EPC 1973.
EUROPEAN PATENT CONVENTION 1973 - Table of Contents
CONVENTION Preface Implementing Regulations
PART V - OPPOSITION PROCEDURE PART IV - PROCEDURE UP TO GRANT PART VI - APPEALS PROCEDURE
Article 101 - Examination of the opposition Article 100 - Grounds for opposition Article 102 - Revocation or maintenance of the European patent


Article 101 71

Examination of the opposition

R. 56-61a, 70, 87



(1) If the opposition is admissible, the Opposition Division shall examine whether the grounds for opposition laid down in Article 100 prejudice the maintenance of the European patent.


(2) In the examination of the opposition, which shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Implementing Regulations, the Opposition Division shall invite the parties, as often as necessary, to file observations, within a period to be fixed by the Opposition Division, on communications from another party or issued by itself.



71 See decisions/opinions of the Enlarged Board of Appeal G 9/91, G 10/91, G 9/92, G 1/99 (Annex I).


Top . arrow top of page

© European Patent Office . Imprint . Terms of use . . Last updated: 01.02.2007 version 1973