EPO affirms provisions to deal with dislocation due to military aggression against Ukraine

The EPO has published a notice, reminding users of ways to mitigate against communication difficulties experienced due to an "exceptional occurrence". The Office has confirmed that this is applicable to Ukraine. So, for applicants in Ukraine or any other affected location, it will be possible to ask for extension of any deadline that could not be met due to disruption in mail communications. A user will have 5 days to comply with a deadline, once services have been restored.

Similar provisions are in place for PCT applications. Seek advice from your attorney if you need assistance during these difficult times.

This provision applies to cases where the failure to observe time limits is the result of exceptional circumstances beyond the control of the person concerned and may therefore be invoked by any applicants, parties to proceedings or their representatives affected by the aggression against Ukraine.

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