As time passes, the Unified Patent Court (UPC) is transitioning from an ambitious legal framework to a maturing judiciary shaping the future of European patent enforcement. The first panel “The UPC After Three Years – Milestones & Momentum” takes stock of what has been achieved and what is still evolving. A discussion that explores landmark rulings, usage trends, and strategic considerations influencing where and how cases are brought will take place in the beginning of the conference. It aims in providing a trajectory of the UPC development, capturing key accomplishments and highlighting the path it now follows.
One of the strongest indicators of the UPC’s impact so far lies in its growing body of case law. Over the past two and a half years, the court has issued decisions touching on critical aspects of patent enforcement, from preliminary injunction to merits decisions. These rulings have provided much-needed clarity for companies operating in innovation-intensive sectors such as telecommunications, automotive, and life sciences.
Another key measure of success is case volume. Litigation activity has steadily increased each year, pointing to growing confidence in the system, by the mid of 2025 almost 900 cases had been filed before the court. The local divisions in Germany have, unsurprisingly, become some of the busiest venues, reflecting the country’s traditional role as a hub for European patent disputes. Yet cases are not limited to a single region: local divisions in the Netherlands, France, and Italy are establishing themselves as competitive alternatives, while the central divisions continue to handle technically complex revocation actions and high-value disputes. Patent holders appear increasingly comfortable leveraging the UPC’s broad territorial reach and efficient procedures.
Forum choice is rapidly becoming a strategic art within the UPC system. Early experiences suggest that while certain divisions may be perceived as more claimant-friendly, the UPC as a whole is striving to maintain consistency in approach. The panel also aims to highlight how companies are adapting their strategies—whether seeking swift enforcement against infringers across multiple states or defending against aggressive litigation tactics. As more cases progress to final judgment, patterns in forum preferences will become clearer and will likely influence future filing behavior.
Underlying all these developments is the question of procedural efficiency. The UPC promised streamlined litigation, digital-first case management, and decisions within tight statutory timelines. Although some practical challenges remain, including coordination across divisions and language selection, feedback from users shows that the system is, by and large, delivering on its commitments. For industries where technology moves quickly, time-effective dispute resolution is a decisive advantage.
Looking ahead, the UPC’s third anniversary marks not an endpoint but a solid foundation. With expanding membership, a deepening jurisprudential record, and increasing industry engagement, the court is earning its place as a central pillar of European patent enforcement. Our first panel sets the tone for the day: a recognition of how far the UPC has come and a focus on sustaining momentum as it continues to evolve.
By Paula Terzini Leite
