Oral proceedings in examination, limitation or opposition are intended to bring the proceedings to a close, and parties are expected to prepare themselves fully.

The division will therefore normally refuse any request from a party that the proceedings be postponed or continued in writing.

Even if the description needs to be revised to bring it into conformity with amended claims, the applicant or proprietor is expected to make the necessary changes either in the oral proceedings or during a break.

Continuing oral proceedings on a day other than the one set out in the summons requires a new summons according to Rule 115(1) to be issued unless all parties can agree to a shorter period of notice.