Procedural standards and the principle of good faith

This lecture provides an overview of the fundamental procedural principles governing proceedings before the European Patent Office. Topics include the right to be heard (Article 113 EPC), the right to oral proceedings (Article 116 EPC), the protection of legitimate expectations or the principle of good faith, equal treatment of parties, the duty to provide reasoned decisions (Rule 111(2) EPC), procedural efficiency, and legal certainty.  

The lecture illustrates how these principles shape EPO practice and decision-making throughout the various stages of proceedings.  

The live session will be recorded and made available to registered participants after the event. Participants are encouraged to attend the live session to benefit from the opportunity to ask questions and engage in the discussion.

The lecture is aimed mainly at lawyers and administrators at national patent offices.