From 7 April 2008 it will be possible for the first time to file "fast track" trade mark applications in the UK. This development is as a result of the Trade Marks and Trade Marks (Fees) (Amendment) Rules 2008 which come into force in April.

A "fast track" application will cost an additional £300 over and above the current official fees and will ensure that the trade mark application is examined within 10 working days from the day following the filing date of the application. Currently, it takes in the region of 4-6 weeks before a standard trade mark application is examined.

A "fast track" application will be subject to the statutory 3 month opposition period in the same way as a standard application, however, the UK Intellectual Property Office will aim to deal with all other correspondence and procedural matters on an expedited basis.

"Fast track" applications will be of particular interest, for example, to those companies and individuals who are seeking trade mark registration on an urgent basis in advance of an imminent product launch. "Fast track" applications can also be complimented by a pre-filing search on a same-day or 24 hour basis.

If you wish to discuss "fast track" applications further, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Fiona McBride
Marisa Foster
March 2008