European Patent Office - coronavirus update

Europe

In light of the ongoing coronavirus situation the EPO has issued guidance regarding its deadlines. Time periods expiring on or after the date of publication of their notice are extended for all parties and their representatives to 17 April 2020 and may be extended further if the issue persists.

The precise date that the guidance comes into effect is still being clarified but is likely to be 15 March 2020, namely the date the EPO issued this guidance on-line. As a result, many deadlines will be extended. The CMS team is currently working to meet all deadlines as originally set by the EPO, but we appreciate that clients may wish to take advantage of an extended deadline as their businesses and travel are disrupted. Please contact your usual CMS patent attorney if you would like clarification of any specific deadline.

The EPO guidance relating to coronavirus is here.