9. How does the CCP review process work?

Examination must begin within one year of the date of submission of the SPC application.

The examiner verifies that the SPC application meets the legal requirements and issues a notification of grant or a notification of irregularities where appropriate.

When the examiner finds irregularities, he gives the applicant a first opportunity to respond to the objections raised in the notification of irregularities (generally within two to four months, extendable on request).

If the examiner maintains his objections despite the applicant's response, he then issues a draft rejection decision, giving the applicant a final opportunity to present arguments to the examiner.

If there are still objections, a rejection decision is issued. An appeal may then be lodged with the Paris Court of Appeal....