2. The work of examiners 

Completing examination files already started is prioritised over beginning work on new files, and grants are expedited once a positive search opinion has been issued.

The attitude of the examiner is very important. Examiners should always strive to be constructive and helpful and focus on objections and suggestions that influence the progress of the proceedings. They should bear in mind that, subject to the requirements of the EPC, the drafting of the description and claims of a European patent application is the responsibility of the applicant or their authorised representative.

Examiners should note in particular the instruction in section 4 of the General Part of the Guidelines. This applies not only in relation to other EPO departments. It also means, for example, that the other members of an examining division should not attempt to repeat the work of the first member (see C‑VIII, 4).