Can I patent an idea in the UK?

No, you cannot patent a mere idea in the UK. You can only patent an invention, product, or process that is new, involves an inventive step, and is capable of industrial application.

How do I know if my invention is patentable?

To be patentable, your invention must be new, inventive (not obvious), capable of industrial use, and make a technical contribution. Artistic works, mathematical methods, and discoveries cannot be patented.

How much does it cost to patent an invention in the UK?

Basic costs include an application fee of £60, a search fee of £150 to £180, and an examination fee of £100 to £130. Renewal fees apply from year 5 onwards.

How long does it take to get a UK patent?

The process usually takes 2 to 4 years, depending on the complexity of your invention and any objections raised during examination.

Should I hire a patent attorney?

While not legally required, it’s strongly recommended. A patent attorney can help draft your application clearly and defensibly, increasing your chances of success.

Can you help me with the patent application?

Yes. i1 Design offers professional invention help, including patent search, design development, 3D CAD modelling, and referrals to trusted patent attorneys for filing and legal support.

Local Patent Attorney Services

Need a patent attorney near you ?

We help inventors, startups and businesses across the UK secure and defend their intellectual property.

Free initial consultation
The very best UK-based patent attorneys, agents and qualified intellectual property experts
Fixed-fee pricing available

PROTECT YOUR INVENTION WITH TRUSTED AND LOCAL INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY EXPERTISE

WHY CHOOSE US AND OUR NETWORK OF LOCAL PATENT ATTORNEYS ?

Are you searching for a reliable patent attorney in the UK to help protect your invention, secure your intellectual property (IP), and guide you through the patent application process?

We work in collaboration with some of the UK’s leading patent attorneys to deliver expert, cost-effective and commercially focused support for individual inventors, startups, and established businesses.

We specialise in helping innovators protect patentable ideas, new technologies, and product designs - from initial patent searches and drafting, to filing and prosecution before the UK Intellectual Property Office (UK IPO) and international patent offices.

We are based in Leeds and work with clients across the UK, offering virtual and in-person support. Whether you’re in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow or anywhere in between, we offer a "near me" service that comes to you via phone, video call or site visits.

LOCAL PATENT SERVICES WE OFFER

Whether you're a private inventor, entrepreneur or looking to scale a business, our patent attorney team can support you from concept through to filing, licensing and enforcement.

PATENT SEARCH AND ADVICE

Prior art and novelty searches using UKIPO, WIPO & EPO databases. Patentability analysis for your idea or product

PATENT DRAFTING AND FILING

Legally sound, commercially focused patent specifications. Filing with UK IPO, EPO, USPTO, or under the PCT system

PATENT APPLICATION SUPPORT

Monitoring and responding to office actions. Helping navigate the UK IPO or international systems

LICENSING AND IP COMMERCIALISATION

Support with patent sales, licensing agreements and investor packs. IP valuation and strategic commercial advice

INTERNATIONAL - OVERSEAS PATENT PROTECTION

Global strategy for securing rights in the EU, US, China and beyond. Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and direct national filings

LOCAL SUPPORT WITH A NATIONAL REACH

We support inventors and businesses in : Leeds, Manchester, London, Birmingham, Sheffield, Glasgow, Liverpool, Nottingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, and all across the UK.

If you’re searching for a “patent attorney near me”, we provide remote legal IP services tailored to your location and needs - whether you're in a major city or a rural area.

SEARCH TERMS – WE CAN HELP YOU WITH

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Local patent attorney services UK
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RELATED PAGES YOU MIGHT NEED

How to Patent an Idea in the UK
Patent Application Process Explained
Sell or License Your Patent
Invention Help and IP Strategy

How iI can help you compile and file a patent

We support inventors from idea to patent.

In collaborating with our patent partners - DF Bluem :

We will provide an honest appraisal on your project and examine patent suitability.
Make suggestions to improve the commerciality of your design and the chances of obtaining a grant.
Undertake a free patent search prior to proceeding with the application process.
Produce 3D CAD design and patent-ready drawings
Design and build prototypes to verify the commerciality of the design.
Prepare and file your UK, international patent application and pursue it through to grant.
Deal with any IPO objections and maintain and file renewals.
Advise on ways of leveraging your IP rights, including using the Patent Box.
Assist with the transfer of your legal rights to a third party.

Protecting your invention starts with the right support.

Contact us today for tailored invention help and expert guidance on patenting your idea.

Our advice is completely free and without obligation - and we guarantee to save you on average 30% on typical patent agent / attorney costs.