Hearings
A hearing is an opportunity for those involved in a dispute to explain their case in person before us.
What is a hearing?
A hearing is a way of taking things forward. It gives you the chance to explain your case in person to one of our senior officers known as a "hearing officer".
Types of hearing
There are generally 2 types of hearings, Ex parte and Inter partes.
Request a hearing
If we have raised objections against your patent or if you are in dispute with someone else about a patent, a hearing may sometimes be necessary.
Prepare for a hearing
Depending on the type of hearing, you may find that solicitors, patent agents or even barristers will be involved. You can represent yourself at a hearing, although we advise you to contact a patent attorney or solicitor.
Hearings diary
These are the hearings that are scheduled.
