4.1 Examination of oppositions 

The opposition divisions are responsible for the examination of oppositions against European patents.

The examination of newly submitted documents for compliance with physical requirements will essentially be the task of the competent formalities officers (see D‑II, 7, A‑I, 2, A‑III, 3.2 and C‑VIII, 1).

Opposition proceedings are inter partes proceedings. It follows that the principle of impartiality of the opposition division extends to refraining from giving one-sided assistance to any party. In particular, the division may not require a specific kind of evidence (see E‑IV, 4.4) or propose claim amendments.

This does not, however, affect the principle under Art. 114(1) that the opposition division may examine facts of its own motion (see D‑V, 2.2).