Disruptions due to storms in Portugal
A notice in the Official Journal outlines remedies available where time limits were missed due to storm-related disruptions.
As is standard practice in case of general dislocation of communications outside the control of the parties, a notice has been published in the Official Journal on the legal remedies provided for under the EPC, the PCT and the UP regulations in cases of non-observance of time limits. In the case of parties who reside in Portugal or have appointed representatives with their place of business in Portugal, periods expiring between 27 January and 26 February 2026 are extended to 27 February 2026 under the applicable provisions.
Oral proceedings by videoconference
Where oral proceedings by videoconference were prevented from being conducted due to the disruptions, the instructions given in Guidelines E-III, 8.2.3 apply. Accordingly, the oral proceedings are normally postponed, and a new summons will be issued.
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