Unified Patent Court: first procedural experiences and the latest changes
The article discusses the establishment and current functioning of the Unified Patent Court (UPC) in Europe, highlighting both improvements and ongoing uncertainties.
The Unified Patent Court (UPC), operational since 2023, aims to streamline the patent process across 18 European Union countries by reducing costs and providing a unified framework for patent enforcement. Initially met with skepticism, the court has begun to clarify its procedural framework, though challenges and uncertainties persist in the evolving legal landscape. As its processes become more defined, legal practitioners are better able to advise clients on timelines and costs associated with patent disputes, underscoring the ongoing adaptation required within the EU patent system. This verdict could facilitate innovation by ensuring more accessible patent protections while also influencing international legal standards concerning intellectual property rights.