Hutchinson IP is a UK‑based intellectual property consultancy led by Tom Hutchinson, a UK and European Patent Attorney with more than 20 years’ experience in mixed‑discipline patent work. The practice was originally established in 2011 as a full‑service IP firm and has now evolved into a consultancy‑focused model, providing targeted, senior‑level support for businesses, overseas applicants and UK IP firms.
The emphasis is on clarity, technical competence and practical guidance, with all work handled directly by an experienced attorney. Clients benefit from responsive communication, predictable costs and a straightforward approach to protecting and managing intellectual property.
Company Background
Hutchinson IP Ltd has been operating since 2011, supporting clients across mechanical, electrical and electronic technologies. The practice has acted for start‑ups, SMEs, established manufacturers, universities, and overseas attorneys requiring UK representation.
As the business has grown, the service offering has been refined to focus on areas where senior‑level expertise adds the most value:
- UK patents and registered designs
- UK national phase and priority filings
- IP consulting and strategy
- Contract drafting support for UK IP firms
- Straw‑man representation
- IP taxation‑related patent work
- Portfolio maintenance and administration
Existing client work continues unchanged, while new instructions are now limited to these consultancy‑led service areas.
About Tom Hutchinson
Director & Patent Attorney
UK Chartered Patent Attorney
European Patent Attorney
Tom is a highly experienced patent practitioner with a strong technical background and a practical, commercially‑focused approach to IP. He works across mechanical, electrical and electronic technologies, supporting clients from early‑stage innovators through to established engineering and manufacturing businesses.
He holds a First‑Class Master’s Degree in Materials Engineering (MEng) from the University of Liverpool (1999), where he specialised in the behaviour, processing and performance of engineering materials — a foundation that supports his broad drafting and prosecution practice.
Tom qualified as both a UK Registered Patent Attorney and a European Patent Attorney, and is regulated by IPReg and the European Patent Institute. His experience includes:
- Drafting and prosecuting UK patent applications
- Handling PCT filings and international filing strategies
- Managing UK national phase and priority filings for overseas applicants
- Advising on IP strategy, portfolio development and global filing pathways
- Supporting M&A transactions and IP transfer agreements
- Preparing Patent Box‑qualifying patent applications
- Acting anonymously in EPO oppositions and UKIPO opinions
- Providing overflow drafting and prosecution support to UK IP firms
Tom handles all client matters personally, providing a consistent point of contact and ensuring that every project benefits from senior‑level expertise.
Contact Details
Hutchinson IP Ltd Email: tom@hutchinsonip.com Telephone: +44 (0)1704 320 084 Registered Office: 57 Hoghton Street, Southport, PR9 0PG, United Kingdom
Staff
Hutchinson IP operates as a specialist consultancy practice. All professional work is carried out by:
Tom Hutchinson Director & Patent Attorney UK & European Patent Attorney
Administrative and support functions are handled through trusted external providers as required, and internally by:
Jane Hawkins – Accounts & Finance Responsible for financial administration, invoicing, and company accounts.
Mikayla Osborn – Personal Assistant providing administrative and organisational support, including diary coordination and workflow assistance.
How We Work
All matters are handled directly by a senior attorney
- Clear, predictable pricing
- Flexible engagement models for businesses and UK IP firms
- Transparent communication and practical advice
- No delegation to junior staff or trainees