Suppose you realize that a competitor’s patent does not go beyond the “prior art” and also hinders your business activities. You can take action against the patent within nine months of its grant in opposition proceedings. Opposition proceedings are heard by the European Patent Office (EPO) or the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA). We, the COHAUSZ & FLORACK partners, will prepare your appeal and advise and assist you during the proceedings.
The flexible alternative: nullity proceedings
A patent can be declared invalid in nullity proceedings. The action may be brought at any time even after the patent expires (max. 20 years). However, the costs are higher than for opposition proceedings. Nullity proceedings are typically a response to suspected patent infringement. The Federal Patent Court (Bundespatentgericht – BPatG) is responsible for nullity proceedings for German patents and the Unified Patent Court (UPC) for certain European patents.
We, the COHAUSZ & FLORACK partners, have handled more than 3,000 lawsuits in all corners of the globe. We are familiar with the markets and jurisdictions of the individual countries and have a huge international network at our disposal. This is indispensable – especially in the highly competitive field of electronic systems. We will develop your appeal and provide advice and assistance throughout the process.
Recording CFWebinar: EPO Case Law Update 2025/2026 Engineering, physics and digital innovations
Recording from 26.02.2026
UPC Update – Second Panel for Düsseldorf Local Division
Effective March 1, 2026, the UPC’s Local Division in Düsseldorf will be expanded by a second panel to be presided by Bérénice Thom.
Cohausz & Florack starts the new year with three new partner appointments
Career leap for full partner Svenja Schwandt and associate partners Lars Grannemann and Dr. Margarete Rittstieg





