IPEC dispute resolution: Cost-capped IP litigation strategy
We function as your firm's IPEC specialist desk, providing the expert litigation capacity required to secure a commercially sound outcome within the IPEC's cost-capped structure.
This court is ideal for SME clients, and our role is to ensure your client can access specialist representation and a resolution without costs spiralling.
We partner with you to deliver a focused, efficient service, maintaining our discreet, background advisory role to fully protect your client relationship.
What is it?
The Intellectual Property Enterprise Court (IPEC) is a specialist division of the High Court designed to resolve a range of IP disputes, including trade mark, copyright, design right, and patent infringement.
Its key features are strict cost management and simplified procedures, which make it an attractive and low-risk forum for businesses with lower-value claims (typically under £500,000).
Success in IPEC requires a specific, commercially pragmatic litigation strategy, which is often distinct from High Court procedures.
IPEC dispute resolution: How we assist you
We empower your firm to confidently represent clients in IPEC by providing the necessary technical and procedural expertise to navigate this specialist court.
- Cost management strategy: We design the entire case around IPEC's capped recovery limits, ensuring that legal spend is proportionate to the value of the claim and that your client is protected from runaway costs.
- Focused pleadings and evidence: We are adept at simplifying complex IP issues into the concise pleadings required by IPEC rules, ensuring maximum impact with minimal documentary evidence and limited trial time.
- Case transfer analysis: We provide a clear, objective recommendation on whether an IP dispute is best suited for IPEC or the High Court, advising your firm on the most advantageous forum for the client's commercial objectives.
- Trial advocacy: We act as specialist advocates, providing courtroom representation that is tailored to IPEC’s condensed trial format and focus on expert witness evidence.
Our unique capability in this area
Our firm’s unique strength in IPEC is derived from our deep expertise in IP disputes combined with a cost-control mindset. We view IPEC as a strategic commercial tool, not just a smaller court.
- Commercial prudence: We understand that for SMEs, cost certainty is paramount. Our IPEC strategy is driven by commercial prudence, ensuring the legal action is an investment with a justifiable return.
- Procedural mastery: Success in IPEC requires strict adherence to its unique procedural rules and deadlines. Our specialist focus ensures full compliance, preventing tactical failures or cost penalties for your client.
- Litigation confidence: By partnering with us, your firm can confidently advise clients on the intricacies of the IPEC, knowing you have specialist counsel who can deliver success in this highly specific forum.
IPEC dispute resolution: Common questions and answers
Why should my client choose IPEC over the High Court?
The primary advantage is cost certainty and speed. IPEC cases are subject to fixed caps on recoverable costs, which significantly reduces the financial risk for your client. The streamlined procedures also lead to a faster resolution, which is vital in certain commercial contexts.
How do you manage the strict cost limits in the IPEC?
We manage costs through fixed phase pricing for IPEC matters wherever possible. We prioritize our time on the core technical and legal arguments, advising against expensive, unnecessary procedural applications that could breach the cost caps or attract adverse scrutiny from the court. The IPEC is, by its nature, a court that is optimised for quick and cost-effective decisions.
How does your IPEC expertise benefit a referring solicitor?
Our expertise protects you from the risk of procedural error and unexpected costs for your client. By partnering with us, you confidently provide access to a specialist IP litigation route that is financially predictable, which enhances your firm's reputation for providing commercially responsible advice.
Partner with specialist IP counsel
Provide your clients with the confidence and cost-certainty of expert IPEC representation. Use the calendar below to arrange a confidential consultation on how we can integrate our specialist IPEC expertise into your firm's services.
The content on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No solicitor-client relationship is created by your use of this site. While we strive to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date, it should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional legal counsel. For specific advice regarding your legal situation, please contact us directly to arrange a consultation.
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