Nevertheless, selling and shipping goods to the EU that infringe an intellectual property right such as a trademark or a patent is illegal. Why Litigate in the UK?○ Fast trial: enforceable first instance judgment within about 1 year upon service of complaint. The European Patent Office (EPO) with headquarters in Munich carries out an autonomous European patent grant procedure. Our experienced patent attorneys are here to accompany you throughout the entire process, both in Germany and internationally. In the Unitary Patent System, the Unified Patent Court (UPC) has jurisdiction over both infringement and revocation actions. The Austrian Patent Office – Nichtigkeitsabteilung (ÖPA- invalidity division) is the competent body for invalidity and declaratory proceedings. With its efficient and inexpensive litigation proceedings, Germany is an important hub for patent litigation in Europe. The territoriality principle applies, which means patent protection only applies in the country where the patent was applied for. This compilation of country profiles provides a comprehensive insight into national enforcement practices and procedures in the EPC contracting states.