The Unitary Patent and the Unified Patent Court

Nearly half a century ago, in 1973, the European Patent Convention was signed, leading to the establishment of the European Patent Office (EPO) and a centralized procedure for the filing and examination of patent applications in Europe. Now another far-reaching reform is imminent that has long been strived for and will fundamentally change patent litigation in Europe.

On these pages, we would like to give you an overview of the two main components of this new system: The European patent with unitary effect ("unitary patent", UP) and the Unified Patent Court (UPC), together with some practical advice for applicants and patent proprietors.

For further information please select one of the following topics (or use the top navigation):
1. Overview
2. Participating states
3. Options for patent proprietors and applicants
4. Sunrise period
5. Translation requirements
6. Renewal fees
7. Unified Patent Court
8. What to do and what to consider

You can also download all information:
UPC brochure PDF >>>

Note: The information on these sides is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or contact your usual patent attorney at Kraus & Weisert if you have any specific questions.

Further information

Further useful information may be found here:
https://www.epo.org/applying/european/unitary/unitary-patent/unitary-patent-guide.html
https://www.epo.org/applying/european/unitary/unitary-patent/faq.html
https://www.unified-patent-court.org/