UPC CONFIRMS NEW SYSTEM ON TRACK FOR JULY LAUNCH

The UPC’s new case management system is set to go live in July as planned. The court confirmed this in response to an enquiry from JUVE Patent. It will then phase out the previous workflow-based system and smart card registration.

Preparations for the new CMS are entering their final stages, as the Unified Patent Court announced in response to an enquiry from JUVE Patent.

“The development of a new Case Management System for the Unified Patent Court is progressing steadily and according to plan, still with the aim of launching it in July,” the court said. The UPC is developing the new CMS in collaboration with the European Patent Office, which has extensive experience with its complex EPO register.

The preparatory group, led by UPC registrar Alexander Ramsay, is currently testing the functionalities and quality of data migration. According to sources close to the project, the group is transferring the first case files to the new system on a trial basis to ensure no information is lost.

Goodbye workflow

External users are currently testing the new system. These include representatives of the four user observer organisations in the UPC’s Administrative Committee: EPLAW, EPLIT, epi and BusinessEurope. UPC clerks and judges are also testing the system.

The UPC will move away from the previous workflow-based system. This had caused numerous problems and discontent among users and judges, particularly before the launch and during the first year.

The UPC, under its current president Klaus Grabinski, promises a simple system that will “not guide and direct the user”.

Users will be able to file and upload documents and pleadings at any time. Furthermore, it will not operate with separate case numbers or workflows for applications filed in relation to a certain case. Such pleadings will be filed in the main case. The court also promises users that they will recognise the look and feel of the EPO system.

Simplified access to the CMS

The UPC also aims to simplify access for users. The new system will not use a physical device for authentication. Until now, users and judges had to log in with a smart card or USB stick and a qualified electronic signature certificate.

If these were lost or incorrectly registered, it could take days for access to be reactivated. The new system will move to a software-based multi-factor authentication system.

The court has not set an exact date for the launch. However, it promises to make available a communication plan, guides and tutorials on how to operate the new system on the UPC’s website before the system goes live. Information take from Juve Patent

Information take from Juve Patent https://www.juve-patent.com/legal-commentary/upc-confirms-new-system-on-track-for-july-launch/

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