Sufficiency in European Oppositions: Lessons Learned for Protecting Chemical Inventions | 28.07.21

Wednesday 28th July 2021, 12:00 pm (London UK – BST) 45mins

What will the talk cover?

Though we will be honing in on chemical examples, this talk will also give a brief overview of the opposition process in general, and so will benefit a broader audience looking to learn from our experience in this area.

Chemical patents can come in many forms, but common to all is the need to meet the legal requirement of “sufficiency”, in order to reach grant at the European Patent Office.  However, despite the rigour of the examination process, it’s possible for patents to reach grant in Europe, only to be challenged by an opposition from a competitor, on grounds such as a lack of sufficiency.  By sharing lessons learned through direct experience of European oppositions, this talk will cover what sufficiency is, why it matters, and how to minimise the risk of competitors attacking your patent for lack of sufficiency after grant.

Who will be speaking?

Rebecca Matheson is a Chartered and European Patent Attorney, specialising in patent matters within the chemical and pharmaceutical fields.  During her time in the profession, Rebecca has enjoyed working across a diverse range of technology areas, from consumer goods to medical devices, to clean technology.  Rebecca is a trusted advisor for companies ranging from large multinationals to brand new SMEs and enjoys helping her clients make use of the patent process to best support their commercial goals.  Rebecca has experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications, including coordinating the prosecution of global portfolios.  Rebecca has a keen interest in oppositions and appeals and has an impressive track record with attacking and defending patents at the European Patent Office on behalf of her clients.  This contentious experience has helped Rebecca gain a full appreciation of how best to “waterproof” her client’s cases from an early stage.