How Much Does It Cost to Oppose a Trade Mark Application in the UK?

If you’ve discovered a trade mark application that could threaten your brand or business, you might be considering a formal opposition. But how much does it actually cost to oppose a trade mark application in the UK? Here’s a clear breakdown of the process, key costs, and what to expect.

1. Official Fees

The UK Intellectual Property Office (UK IPO) charges an official fee to file a trade mark opposition. As of July 2025, the standard fees are:
  • £100 for opposing under section 5(1) and/or 5(2) of the Trade Marks Act 1994
  • £200 for opposing under any other grounds

2. Professional Fees

While it’s possible to oppose a trade mark yourself, most businesses choose to instruct an IP professional to maximise their chances of success. Professional fees can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the evidence required, and whether the matter is settled early or proceeds to a full hearing.
At Panoramix IP, our typical cost structure for a straightforward opposition is:
  • Initial assessment and filing: £500–£1,000 + VAT
  • Preparing evidence and submissions: £1,000–£2,500 + VAT (if required)
  • Attending a hearing (if necessary): £500–£1,500 + VAT
Total estimated cost:
For most standard cases, expect an overall investment of £700–£5,000 (including official fees and professional support). Complex or heavily contested cases may cost more.

3. Other Potential Costs

  • Settlement/Negotiation: Many oppositions settle before reaching a hearing, which can reduce costs.
  • Adverse Costs: If you lose, you may be ordered to pay a contribution towards the other party’s costs (usually a capped, modest amount).
  • Additional Evidence: If substantial evidence or expert reports are needed, this can increase the total cost.

4. Is It Worth Opposing?

Opposing a trade mark is an investment in protecting your brand. The cost of not acting, such as confusion in the marketplace or loss of rights, can be far greater. With a success rate of around 85% in our recent opposition and cancellation cases, Panoramix IP can guide you through the process and help you assess your options.

5. Next Steps

If you’re considering an opposition, early action is essential. The opposition window is just two months from publication (extendable to three months). Our team can review your situation, provide a fixed-fee quote, and handle the process from start to finish.
Need advice or a cost estimate?
Contact Panoramix IP for a confidential, no-obligation discussion about your trade mark opposition options.