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

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.