Users discuss expanding use of ViCos in oral proceedings at first-ever online SACEPO meeting
The EPO's Standing Advisory Committee (SACEPO) earlier this week held its user consultation meeting for the first time by video conference (ViCo). The spring meeting of the SACEPO Working Party on Rules on 31 March looked at measures to further facilitate the use of ViCo in oral proceedings in examination and opposition. In view of current travel restrictions due to the Covid-19 outbreak, user representatives recognised that ViCo contributes to a more efficient and sustainable European patent system.
The Committee members were also consulted on several other projects being rolled out under the EPO Strategic Plan 2023, including a pilot on using email for notifications related to pending oral proceedings. The meeting ended with updates on recent fee changes and a project to enhance the convergence of legal practices among member states.