Your complete guide to contentious patent proceedings in Europe
European patent disputes have never been more complex - or more consequential. The launch of the Unified Patent Court has fundamentally changed how patents are enforced and challenged across Europe, sitting alongside established national court systems, the EPO's opposition and appeal procedures, and a growing range of alternative dispute resolution options. Choosing the right forum, at the right time, with the right strategy can determine whether a patent stands or falls.
Marks & Clerk's contentious patent team combines deep technical expertise with strategic experience across every major European venue and procedure. Whether you are enforcing a patent against an infringer, defending a validity challenge, opposing a competitor's granted patent at the EPO, or exploring mediation and other routes to resolution, we provide clear, commercially focused advice on where and how to act.
This section of our website is designed to help you navigate your options. Explore our guidance on proceedings before the Unified Patent Court, our dedicated UPC resource library, contentious proceedings in the UK and other national courts, and EPO opposition and appeal proceedings. Use our interactive Q&A below to identify the right starting point for your situation.
