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The Patents Act 1977 is the main law governing the patents system in the UK.
The Trade Marks Rules 2008 set out the detailed procedures under the Trade Marks Act 1994, and came into force on 1 October 2008.
There are 7 model research collaboration agreements for universities and companies that wish to undertake collaborative research projects together.
The Patents Rules 2007 set out the detailed procedures under the Patents Act 1977, and came into force on 17 December 2007.
In order to better understand the process of applying for a design, we recommend you view the design timeline.
Sections (2.01 - 2.41) last updated October 2025.
Authors of original works of art are entitled to a royalty each time one of their works is resold through an art market professional.
The Manual of Patent Practice explains the Intellectual Property Office's practice under the Patents Act 1977.
Sections (17.01 - 17.123) last updated: April 2026.
Finding the right advice and advisor is the first step in making the best decisions for your invention or business.
How to enforce copyright when somebody uses your work without your permission.
The Intellectual Property Office offers different methods of accelerating the processing of your patent application.
Depending on the objection raised in your examination, you have 2 months to respond through a number of options.
How to get permission to copy a creative work for which the right holder(s) cannot be found ie an orphan work.
Directions under section 124A of the Patents Act 1977 to direct the form and manner in with patent applications can be submitted electronically.
Details on how to file evidence regarding your trade mark or during tribunal proceedings.
Section last updated: January 2021.
Sections (10.01 to 10.84) last updated: July 2020.
The Formalities Manual explains the Intellectual Property Office's formalities examination practice under the Patents Act 1977.
The date of grant and date of publication will be available online for all UK national registered designs.
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