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Author: Kevin Hanson

How to File a Patent Application in the UK

Posted on by Kevin Hanson
Protecting your innovation is crucial, and filing a patent is one of the most effective ways to secure your intellectual property. If you’re developing a new product, process, or invention in the UK, understanding the patent application process can help you safeguard your ideas and maximise commercial value. Here’s how to file a patent application in the UK.

1. Confirm Your Invention Is Patentable

Before starting, ensure your invention meets the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) criteria:
  • Novelty: Your invention must be new and not disclosed anywhere in the world. You can use search tools such as Espacenet and Google Patents to search for earlier patents.
  • Inventive Step: It must not be obvious to someone skilled in the relevant field.
  • Industrial Applicability: The invention must be capable of being made or used in industry.
  • Not Excluded: Abstract ideas, mathematical methods, and some business methods are not patentable.
Tip: Conduct a preliminary novelty search to check if similar patents exist.

2. Prepare Your Patent Specification

A strong application starts with a well-drafted patent specification, which includes:
  • Title: Brief and descriptive.
  • Description: Detailed explanation of your invention and how it works.
  • Claims: Define the scope of protection you’re seeking.
  • Drawings: To illustrate your invention.
  • Abstract: Concise summary.
Recommendation: Professional drafting significantly increases your chances of success and can save time in the long run. The cost of drafting your application can vary from £1,500 – £10,000 depending on complexity and the firm that you decide to work with.

3. File Your Application with the UKIPO

You can file your patent application online or by post.
The initial filing requires:
  • Patent specification (description, claims, drawings, abstract)
  • Completed application form (Form 1) and request for search (Form 9A)
  • Payment of the filing fee – £60 if you file online. If requesting search, you also need to pay the search fee of £150.
Note: You can also request examination at the point of filing if needed.

4. Receive Your Filing Date

Once filed, you’ll receive an official filing date. This is critical, as it establishes your priority over later applications for the same invention.

5. Search and Publication

  • Search Request: Submit Form 9A and pay the search fee within 12 months of filing (usually at the time of filing). The UKIPO will conduct a search for prior art.
  • Publication: Your application is published 18 months after your filing (or priority) date.

6. Examination

Request substantive examination (Form 10) within six months of publication (again, this can be requested at the time of filing) and pay the £100 fee. The UKIPO will assess if your invention meets all legal requirements. You may need to respond to objections or amend your application.
If working with a patent attorney (which we strongly recommend), you can expect to pay between £1,000 – £2,000, at least, during examination to progress your application to grant.

7. Grant and Maintenance

If your application is accepted, the UKIPO will grant your patent . You’ll need to pay annual renewal fees to keep your patent in force. Renewal fee start at £70 for the 5th year rising to £610 for the 20th year – see UKIPO patent renewal fees. We recommend working with a patent attorney to ensure that deadlines are met. A patent attorney should not be charging any more than £250 to renew a patent. If they are, you are paying too much.

Quick Tips for Success

  • Confidentiality: Don’t disclose your invention publicly before filing.
  • Professional Advice: Consider working with a qualified patent attorney to navigate complex requirements.
  • Global Protection: If you plan to file overseas, you will need to file applications in other countries within 12 months of your UK application (priority period).

Need Help with Patent Filing?

At Panoramix IP, we specialise in guiding inventors and businesses through the UK, EU, and US patent processes. Our experienced team can help you draft, file, and manage your patent application, ensuring your innovation is protected from day one.
Now that you know how to file a patent application in the UK, Contact us today to discuss your invention or get started with your UK patent application.

Should I trade mark my business name?

Posted on by Kevin Hanson
When launching a business, choosing the right name is a milestone moment. But once you’ve settled on that perfect name, a crucial question follows: should I trade mark my business name?
As an IP professional, I see this question come up almost daily. Here’s a practical look at why trade mark registration matters, the risks of skipping it, and what steps to consider.

What’s the Difference?

First, let’s clear up a common misconception: registering your business with Companies House or HMRC does not give you trade mark rights. Company registration simply means you’re legally allowed to operate under that name. It doesn’t stop someone else from using (or even trade marking) a similar name for their products or services.

Why Register as a Trade Mark?

1. Exclusive Rights
A registered trade mark gives you the exclusive right to use your business name for the goods and services it covers. This means you can stop others from using a confusingly similar name in your sector.
2. Stronger Legal Protection
Trade mark registration makes it much easier (and more cost-effective) to enforce your rights if someone tries to copy or piggyback on your brand.
3. Business Value
A registered trade mark is an asset. It can add value to your business, help attract investment, and make expansion or franchising simpler.
4. Peace of Mind
Knowing your brand is protected lets you focus on growth, not legal headaches.

What Happens If You Don’t Register?

  • You risk rebranding if someone else registers a similar name first.
  • You may have limited legal options if another business uses your name or a close variant.
  • You could lose out on building a unique, recognisable brand identity.

What Should You Consider?

  • Check availability: Is your name unique in your sector and region?
  • Think long-term: Will your business expand into new products, services, or countries?
  • Budget for protection: Trade mark registration is an investment, not just an expense.

Bottom Line

Registering your business name as a trade mark isn’t just for big brands. It’s a practical step for any company serious about protecting its reputation and future growth.
If you’re unsure where to start, consider seeking advice from an IP professional. The right guidance now can save you time, money, and stress down the line.
Have questions about trade marks or protecting your brand? Feel free to contact us – happy to help demystify the process.

How Long Does It Take to Register a Trademark in the UK?

Posted on by Kevin Hanson
When you’re building a brand, securing your trademark is a crucial step to protect your name, logo, or slogan. But one of the first questions business owners ask is: How long does it take to register a trademark in the UK? Let’s break down the UK trade mark process, typical timelines, and what you can do to make it as smooth as possible.

The UK Trademark Registration Process: Step by Step

Registering a trademark in the UK is a structured process managed by the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO). Here’s what to expect:

1. Preparation and Filing

  • Trademark Search & Application: Before filing, it’s wise to conduct a thorough search to check for conflicting trademarks. Once ready, your application is submitted to the UKIPO.
  • Panoramix IP Turnaround: At Panoramix IP, we typically prepare and file trademark applications within 2 business days of receiving your instructions and required information.

2. Examination by UKIPO

  • The UKIPO examines your application for compliance and potential conflicts. If there are no issues, your application proceeds. If there are objections, you’ll need to address them, which can add time. This will happen approx. 2-3 weeks after the application is filed

3. Publication

  • If your application passes examination, it’s published in the UK Trade Marks Journal for 2 months (extendible to 3 months)to allow third parties to oppose the registration.

4. Registration

  • If no oppositions are raised (or any are resolved in your favour), your trademark is registered, and you’ll receive a certificate of registration.

Typical Timeline: From Start to Finish

  • Preparation & Filing: 1–2 days (with Panoramix IP)
  • Examination: Usually 2-3 weeks
  • Publication (Opposition Period): 2 months (extendible to 3 months)
  • Registration Certificate Issued: Shortly after the opposition period ends
Total UK trade mark timescale (if no objections or oppositions): Around 2.5 to 3 months from filing to registration

What Can Delay the Process?

  • Objections from UKIPO: If the examiner raises concerns, you’ll need to respond, which can add weeks or months.
  • Oppositions: If a third party opposes your application during publication, the process can be delayed significantly while the dispute is resolved.
  • Incorrect Application Details: Mistakes in the application, such as wrong classes or unclear goods/services, can lead to delays or even refusals.

How Panoramix IP Can Help

At Panoramix IP, our trademark specialists ensure your application is correctly prepared and filed, minimising the risk of delays. Our success rate for first-time registrations is exceptionally high, meaning most of our clients secure their trademarks quickly and smoothly.
Need help registering your trademark?
Contact Panoramix IP for expert guidance and a fast, reliable service.
Ready to protect your brand?
Let’s make trademark registration simple, fast, and hassle-free.

How much does it cost to oppose a trade mark application in the UK

Posted on by Kevin Hanson

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.

 

 

 

 

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