Practical, Experienced UK IP Support for Businesses and Law Firms
Hutchinson IP is a consultancy‑focused practice led by Tom Hutchinson, a UK and European Patent Attorney with over 20 years’ experience in mixed‑discipline patent work. I provide targeted, high‑value IP services for companies, founders, and UK IP firms who need senior‑level expertise without the overhead of a full-service firm.
Tom’s work centres on UK patents, UK registered designs, IP strategy, and specialist consultancy projects. He also supports UK firms with short‑term capacity, technical drafting, and advisory work on a flexible basis.
For Existing Clients
All existing client work will continue exactly as originally scoped, with no change to service level, timelines, or ongoing support. Your current matters will be taken through to completion with the same continuity and technical depth as before.
As the practice transitions to a consultancy‑led model, new instructions are now limited to the service areas listed below. This ensures that all new engagements receive focused, senior‑level attention while maintaining full commitment to ongoing client matters.
UK Patents
Protection for the novel and non‑obvious features of technical inventions.
- Drafting, filing, prosecution, grant and maintenance of UK patent applications
- PCT filings to secure initial “worldwide” protection from a UK priority application
- Handover packs enabling clients to instruct recommended overseas attorneys directly for foreign filings
- Clear, predictable costs and practical guidance throughout the process
UK National Phase & Priority Filings
For overseas companies seeking UK protection corresponding to an existing foreign application.
- UK priority filings within 12 months of an overseas priority date
- UK national phase entries within 31 months of a PCT priority date
- Full prosecution through to grant
- Renewal fee management and register updates
UK Registered Designs
Low‑cost protection for the outward appearance of products.
- Preparation and filing of UK Registered Designs
- Parallel filing strategy alongside EUIPO where required
- Maintenance and renewals
IP Consulting
Independent, senior‑level advice for businesses needing clarity, strategy, or a second opinion.
- IP audits and portfolio reviews
- IP strategy development and global filing planning
- IP spend analysis and cost‑optimisation
- Advisory support for mergers, acquisitions, and IP transfer agreements
- Board‑level or investor‑facing IP guidance
Contract & Overflow Work for IP Firms
Flexible support for firms needing additional short‑term capacity.
- Day‑rate or per‑project engagement
- Patent drafting, searching, and examination report responses
- Holiday cover or assistance with non‑ongoing projects
- Seamless integration with your internal processes
Straw‑Man Services
Anonymous representation for sensitive matters.
- Filing and handling anonymous EPO oppositions and UKIPO opinions
- Two service levels:
- Postbox only – you handle all substantive work
- Input – I assist with substantive drafting and strategy while maintaining anonymity
IP Taxation Support
Helping companies benefit from UK innovation tax incentives.
- Advice on R&D Tax Credits and Patent Box strategies
- Drafting, filing and prosecuting Patent Box‑qualifying patent applications
- Coordination with accountants and tax advisors
IP Maintenance & Administration
- Renewal fee payments
- Register updates
- Drafting and recording assignments and licences
- Portfolio housekeeping and compliance
A Consultancy Approach
My practice is built around clarity, responsiveness, and senior‑level involvement throughout. Whether you are a business seeking practical IP guidance or a UK firm needing experienced drafting support, I provide a straightforward, technically‑competent service without unnecessary complexity.