What U.S. Practitioners Should Know About EPO Practice

Description

Expanding your practice to include European patent matters can open new opportunities, but the European Patent Office (EPO) operates under a distinct set of rules, procedures, and expectations that differ significantly from U.S. practice. 

This webinar will provide a practical overview of EPO prosecution, highlighting key differences, common pitfalls, and strategic considerations for U.S.-based practitioners. Attendees will gain insight into how to navigate EPO requirements more effectively and better support clients with international patent needs. 

Learning Objectives: 

• Understand key procedural differences between U.S. and EPO patent prosecution 
• Identify common pitfalls for U.S. practitioners working with the EPO
• Learn best practices for drafting and amending applications for EPO compliance 
• Gain insight into EPO examination standards, including added matter and clarity requirements 
• Understand opposition and post-grant considerations in the European system

Speakers

Oliver Pooley

Oliver is an enthusiastic and experienced patent attorney. He enjoys working with clients to understand their commercial goals and business plan, and is able to use this knowledge to help develop and implement a holistic IP strategy that meets the specific needs and circumstances of the client.

 Oliver has experience in helping clients obtain patent protection in the UK, Europe and beyond. He works across a variety of technology fields including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies (including quantum computing), electronics, semiconductors, fintech, telecommunications, and cryptography.

 Oliver also works with clients to identify opportunities for obtaining patent protection, and to implement systems to capture and record IP generated within the business. He also able to provide advice on competitor's patent portfolios including freedom to operate, validity and landscaping.

 Oliver has experience of working with clients from individual inventors through to large multinationals, and is able to tailor his advice for the situation at hand.

Jennifer Unsworth

Jennifer Unsworth is a Partner and UK & European Patent Attorney at HGF. She advises innovators and businesses on securing and enforcing commercially valuable patent protection across Europe and internationally.

 Jennifer has over a decade of experience helping clients navigate the European patent system, from initial filing strategy through to prosecution and portfolio management. She works with organizations ranging from individual inventors and SMEs to multinational corporations, with particular experience in the engineering, transport, aerospace and defense sectors.

Before joining the patent profession, Jennifer worked in technology transfer, supporting the identification, protection and commercialization of innovations emerging from research and healthcare environments. Her practical and commercially focused approach helps clients align their patent strategy with broader business goals.