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Practical steps to manage the risk of online harms if your online platform allows people to search user generated content.

• Updated: 29 June 2021

A patent registers your invention and lets you take legal action against anyone who makes, uses, sells or imports your invention without your permission.

• Overview

  A UK patent may help if you want to take legal action against someone who…

• Before you apply

  Only apply for a patent if: you’ve checked your invention does not already…

• Prepare your application

  A patent application must include: a description of your invention that…

• File your initial application

  You must have prepared your documents before applying. Your initial…

• After you apply

  Once you’ve filed an application you’ll get a receipt with your…

• Search, publication and 'substantive examination'

  Before your patent can be granted the Intellectual Property Office (IPO)…

• When a patent is granted

  If your patent is granted: your application will be published in its final…

Use this form to request a search on a patent application.

Form OS1: official search with priority by a purchaser against the whole of a registered title or pending first registration application.

Look up a trade mark to see if something identical or similar to your brand is already registered.

How to find export opportunities and overseas customers for your business on great.gov.uk: get help selling online overseas, get help from a trade specialist.

The library catalogue allows you to search all the titles in a public library - many councils offer online access to their library catalogue

Stop and search rates for different ethnic groups in England and Wales.

• Updated: 18 July 2018

Use this online service to complete a form or send additional documents for a UK patent you've already applied for (a patent pending)

Form OS2: official search with priority by a purchaser against part of the land in a registered title or pending first registration application.