A critical point here is the preparation of good design representations. It is very easy to get this wrong, particularly where the client does not have good drawings or photographs. We should be seeking to demonstrate to clients that design registration is not as straightforward as they might be led to believe by the IPO. The first step will be to prepare a quotation for the registration. This will need to include the cost of preparing representations, and you may need to obtain an estimate for a patent draftsman. Use the cost estimates to prepare a Design Protection Proposal (UKDA120).
We file using the online filing facility at https://www.gov.uk/apply-register-design, for which you will need representations in the form of jpg files – one for each view. You can have up to seven views of each design and multiple designs in a single application. Before you start, you will need full details of the applicants and any priority to be claimed.
When you have prepared the application save it and pass the saved login details to the fee-earner to check and complete the filing.
Once the application has been filed, you will need to:
- Enter the filing date and number on the Details tab of the case record in Equinox. when you update, this will bring up the initial pre-set tasks, which you can accept or reject, according to what is necessary.
- Make sure that the filing receipt and other documents from the IPO are on the case file.
- Prepare the invoice.
- Prepare the reporting e-mail to the client (Basic Design Application e-mail), attaching the filing receipt and invoice.
Last Updated on 2 October 2025 by Keith