File inspection

Within the framework of online file inspection via DPMAregister pursuant to Section 31(3a) of the Patent Act (Patentgesetz), individual documents may be excluded from file inspection, in particular for reasons of data protection and copyright (see Notice of the President No. 12/13 of 28 November 2013).

In addition to online file inspection, it is still possible to file a written request for file inspection pursuant to Section 31(1) of the Patent Act. Inspection of files shall be granted

• by the inspection of the original files at the offices of the DPMA in Munich, Jena or Berlin, or
• by issuing photocopies or printouts.

Please note: Under certain circumstances, for the reasons stated above, the scope of file inspection pursuant to Section 31(1) of the Patent Act may go beyond the scope of online file inspection pursuant to Section 31(3a) of the Patent Act.