The development of a new Case Management System for the Unified Patent Court is progressing steadily and according to plan, still with the aim to launch it in July. The project is now in an intensive testing phase, both regarding the functionalities and the quality of the migration of data. The exact date of launch will be communicated in due course. 

To leverage from all available expertise, the development is being carried out with the close involvement of external users. Representatives of the four user observer organizations in the UPC’s Administrative Committee, EPLAW, EPLIT, epi and BusinessEurope, are contributing actively to the shaping and testing of the new system. 

To give a sneak peek the following characteristics are to be mentioned. The new system will not be using a physical device for authentication but will move to a software based multifactor authentication system. It will be simple and not guide and direct the user, e.g., the user will be able to file/upload documents and pleadings at any time. Furthermore, it will not operate with separate case numbers/workflows for applications filed related to a certain case. Such pleadings will be filed in the main case. Finally, the user will recognize the touch and feel of the system currently operated by the EPO. 

Once the launch date has been established, the Court will publish its communication plan. Guides and tutorials on how to operate the new system will be available in a dedicated space on the Court’s website in good time before the launch.

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