CLR III G 4.3.2 Public prior use

Although the standard of proof is the same for all objections covered by Art. 100 EPC (cf. T 270/90, OJ 1993, 725), the case law identifies two levels or standards of proof to be applied with regard to disputes around public prior use – either the "balance of probabilities" or "up to the hilt".

a) Both parties have access to the evidence : balance of probabilities

b) Evidence within the sphere of the opponent: beyond any reasonable doubt

c) Miscellaneous – evaluation in the case law

Source: http://www.epo.org/law-practice/legal-texts/html/caselaw/2019/e/clr_iii_g_4_3_2.htm

Date retrieved: 17 May 2021

11 references found.

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EPC Articles

X A.100 EPC Grounds for opposition

Case Law Book: I Patentability

X CLR I C 3.5.2.B Public prior use

Case Law Book: III Amendments

X CLR III G Law of evidence

X CLR III G 4.2.1.A Credibility of allegedly linked witnesses

X CLR III G 4.3 Standard of proof

X CLR III G 4.3.1 General – "Balance of probabilities"

X CLR III G 4.3.2.A Both parties have access to the evidence : balance of probabilities

X CLR III G 4.3.2.B Evidence within the sphere of the opponent: beyond any reasonable doubt

X CLR III G 4.3.2.C Miscellaneous – evaluation in the case law

Case Law Book: IV Divisional Applications

X CLR IV C 2.2.8.D Alleged public prior use

General Case Law

X T 0270/90 (Polyphenylene ether compositions) of 21.3.1991