UPC

ChatGPT Inherently innovative, the Unified Patent Court (UPC) (JUB) establishes an international legal system created by 25 states. Its primary function is to handle disputes related to infringement and validity of unitary and European patents. Patent management is thus simplified by centralizing procedures that were previously divided among different national jurisdictions. Although closely linked to the European Union, the UPC operates autonomously with decisions applicable in all states that are signatories to the Agreement on a Unified Patent Court jurisdiction.

The mechanism of the Unified Patent Court (UPC) consists of a court of first instance, an appeals court, and a central registry. It is empowered to adjudicate all disputes related to European unitary patents and European patents registered in countries where the Agreement applies. This authority even extends to supplementary protection certificates. However, despite the significant step forward that this unification represents for patent litigation management, the system is not without challenges. Indeed, its complexity and associated costs could potentially deter certain businesses, particularly SMEs and startups. Additionally, the impact of Brexit on the future of the UPC remains a central question that remains unanswered.