Guidance

Manual of trade marks practice

The manual of trade marks practice sets out guidance on the Intellectual Property Office work practices.

Documents

Manual of trade marks practice

Details

Each section of this manual tells you how we deal with particular actions, cases, or aspects of cases. We consider each case on its merits and fully consider all the relevant factors of a case, especially during the examination process. Whilst we must always take account of practice and procedures, the particular circumstances of a case may suggest that at times a departure from practice would be justified.

As our practices develop, either as a result of our consideration of cases or by decisions of the courts, we will give additional or revised guidance, and update this manual accordingly.

If you have any feedback please contact the manual editor.

Published 3 March 2009
Last updated 14 January 2019 + show all updates
  1. The manual has been updated to reflect the changes to legislation which came into effect on 14 January 2019 under SI2018/825.

  2. Manual of trade marks practice (online version) published.

  3. The examination practice content has been divided into four individual parts. Part A: Introduction, Part B: Alphabetical list of examination practice, Part C: Notifications and Part D: Overcoming objections.

  4. Manual of trade marks practice document updated.

  5. First published.