Annual patent review 2016

2016 was another a bumper year for patent decisions from the UK IP courts.

The Court of Appeal had a thorough look at the 'obvious to try' doctrine, plausibility, insufficiency and AgrEvo obviousness, and confirmed the UK courts' power to grant Arrow­-type declarations.

Interesting nuggets to note include one case getting to second instance decision within six months of commencement, changes to the 'default' position regarding disclosure and a change to the test for obtaining permission to appeal in patent cases.

Please let me share with you my comprehensive commentary of the key developments, in my review of the year's patent cases in 2016: "The Elephant in the Room".