🔍 New EPO Guidelines 2025 – What You Need to Know, Part 3 

📌 Part 3: Opposition Procedures and Correction of Errors 

What changed: 

• The EPO has introduced provisions to expedite opposition proceedings, particularly when parallel litigation is pending before the Unified Patent Court (UPC) or national courts. Upon a justified request, the EPO may reduce time limits, issue summonses more promptly, and schedule oral proceedings at an earlier date. 
  🔗 Ref: GL E‑VIII, 5  

• The Guidelines now provide clearer instructions on correction of linguistic errors, errors of transcription and mistakes in any document filed with the EPO. Corrections are allowable if it is immediately evident that an error has occurred and what the correction should be, and if filed promptly, aligning with decision G 1/12. 
  🔗 Ref: GL H‑VI, 2.2 

💡 Why it matters: 
These updates aim to enhance clarity in opposition proceedings as well as in the process of correcting the errors. Accelerated opposition processing can lead to quicker resolutions, while the clarified correction procedures ensure that errors are addressed promptly and appropriately. 

✅ What to watch out for or do differently: 
✔ If the applicant is involved in parallel litigation, consider requesting accelerated opposition proceedings to align timelines.  

✔ Ensure that any corrections to application documents are made promptly and meet the clarified criteria to avoid admissibility objections.