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ARTICLE · 17 MARCH 2016

Revised Procedures For Accelerating Prosecution At The EPO

Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP
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On January 1, 2016, changes to the programme for accelerated prosecution of European patent applications (PACE) came into force at the European Patent Office (EPO).

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Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, LLP
Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, LLP
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On January 1, 2016, changes to the programme for accelerated prosecution of European patent applications (PACE) came into force at the European Patent Office (EPO). In this article, we explain the PACE programme and the recent changes.

Accelerating Search and Examination with PACE

The PACE programme provides an easy way to expedite the search and examination of European patent applications. Unlike some patent offices' costly and complicated procedures for accelerating prosecution, PACE is free of charge and requires only a simple form to be filed. All European patent applications are eligible to participate in the PACE programme, and there is no need to give a reason for requesting acceleration or to provide any additional documents.

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