How to file proceedings with us

Depending on the type of dispute, proceedings can be filed in the court or with us. However filing proceedings should be a last resort, as they can be very time-consuming, costly and stressful for the parties involved. In addition, the losing party may have costs awarded against them.

Parties should try first to reach a settlement with the other side, or consider trying mediation. If the dispute relates to infringement or validity of a patent, obtaining an opinion from us may help to settle the dispute.

What do I do?

To file proceedings with us, the following must be completed and sent to us:

  • 2 copies of form 2 PDF document(26Kb) (or form 15 if filing an opposition) along an initial with the fee of GBP £50
  • 2 copies of a statement of grounds and 2 copies of documents you refer to in the statement of grounds.

Unless the proceedings relate to a review of an opinion or are uncontested, form 4 and a fee of GBP £350 will need to be paid later.

What happens next?

Before we consider the case, we will send a copy of the statement of grounds to anyone we believe has an interest in the case to allow them to respond with a counter-statement.

Further information about how we conduct cases can be found in our Hearings manual and Litigation manual.