11. What are the main differences between the French and European opposition procedures?

While the opposition procedure in France has some similarities with the European patent opposition procedure (see Obtaining a European patent: the opposition procedure [FIC 1627] ), it differs in the following respects.

• The procedure is more strictly controlled, with predefined deadlines to be met, resulting in a tighter timetable than before the EPO.

• Unlike the EPO, the INPI cannot continue proceedings if the opponent withdraws.

• If INPI has not ruled on...