Hearings

A hearing is an opportunity for those involved in a dispute to explain their case in person before a senior member of our staff known as a Hearing Officer. This is where the Hearing Officer is carrying out the function of a tribunal and the hearing is a quasi-judicial activity.

If the proceedings involve one side only, for example during the examination of a design application, this is called an 'ex parte’ hearing.

If the dispute involves two or more sides, for example during opposition proceedings, the hearing is called an 'inter partes’ hearing.

Do you need a hearing?

Find out if a hearing is the best way to resolve your dispute.

Types of hearing

Definitions of all the hearings we arrange.

Request a hearing

Ask us for a hearing if you have to resolve a dispute.

Preparing for a hearing

Details of what you have to do and be aware of before you attend a hearing.

Cost of proceedings

If you are successful in your inter partes dispute you may make a claim for costs.  Find out what they are and how you receive them.