SPCS for Beginners

In-house Training and Consultancy Services

With this bespoke In-house training programme you can give the whole patents team a comprehensive overview of Supplementary Protection Certificates (SPCs) in Europe. You will explore the key differences between SPCs in Europe and patent term extensions in major territories and the team will take away practical advice that will not only help them manage the portfolio, but will also help avoid any pitfalls.

Sample Programme

Introduction to SPCs

• Why SPCs? Bridging the gap between Patent and Regulatory systems
• The Explanatory Memorandum – reasons for and proposed extent of SPCs
• The legislation
• SPC Regulation
• PPP Regulation
• Basic effect of SPCs
• A National right based on EU legislation

Case Law – The basics and the problem areas

• For which types of active ingredients can SPCs be granted?
• Where is SPC protection available?
• Who can apply for SPC protection?
• When must the SPC application be submitted?
• Which requirements must be satisfied for an SPC to be granted?
• How is the duration of SPC protection determined?
• When and how can an extension of SPC duration be obtained?
• What are the grounds of invalidity for SPCs?

The application process in Europe – a aase study

• Which patents to extend?
• Applicable deadlines
• Application and examination process
• Paediatric extensions
• Pitfalls to avoid

Practical points to consider regarding SPCs when managing a patent portfolio

• Drafting patent applications
• Prosecuting patent applications
• Post-grant amendment of patents
• Tracking regulatory approvals
• Applying for an SPC
• Applying to extend an SPC

Beyond Europe: SPCs and patent term extensions around the world

• Where are patent term extensions available?
• Important differences between jurisdictions
• US patent term extensions under the Hatch-Waxman act
• Patent term extension regimes in Japan, Korea, Russia, Australia and others

Recommended Trainers

Chairman

PAUL INMAN

Paul Inman is a partner in Wragge’s London office. He joined Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co LLP (formerly Wragge & Co LLP) in November 2010, having spent 3 years as a partner in Howrey’s London office.

Speakers

DR PAUL BRADY

Dr Paul Brady is a European and Chartered Patent Attorney and a partner at the UK firm Abel & Imray. Paul and his team regularly carry out SPC filing programmes across Europe for their clients.

DR OLIVER KINGSBURY

Dr Oliver Kingsbury is a European and Chartered Patent Attorney and a partner at the UK firm Elkington and Fife LLP. In addition to SPCs, Oliver deals with patent prosecution and opposition procedures before the European Patent Office.

DR ANDREW RUDGE

Dr Andrew Rudge is a European and Chartered Patent Attorney and works in the European Patent Department of the pharmaceutical company Pfizer. Andrew advises colleagues across the company on matters relating to obtaining and extending SPCs.

MIKE SNODIN

Mike Snodin is the founder and director of Park Grove IP Ltd. A well-known figure in the SPC community, Mike has published a number of influential and ground-breaking articles on SPCs