https://www.epo.org/en/service-support/faq/applying-patent/validation-system/what-role-national-patent-attorneys
What is the role of national patent attorneys in the validation process?
Users of validation are required to have local legal representation at various points during the patent validation process. Local patent professionals are necessary to complete legal actions before the national office on behalf of the applicant. For example, applicants would need local partners to submit official translations, pay the publication fee and ensure renewal fees are paid.