ObjectiveThe unitary patent package was endorsed by the European Parliament and the Council in December 2012 and the agreement on the Unified Patent Court (UPC), which is expected to be ratified by Member Sates this year, ought to come into force by 2014. It is therefore crucial for legal practitioners and patent attorneys to prepare themselves for the unitary system of protection for patents in the EU.Key topicsWork of the “Preparatory Committee”Rules of Procedure under preparationTransitional period with opt-outThe CJEU's ruling of 16 April 2013 on enhanced cooperation (C-274/11 and C-295/11)Alignment with the Brussels I RegulationPractical recommendations on best tacticsWhat territorial scope of protection to choose for a patent?Opt in or opt out?Before which division to litigate?Is bifurcation always the best option?Other alternatives to litigation