Guidance and notes: directions given in relation to requests for electronic uncertified copies from patent files
Published 1 January 2008
© Crown copyright 2008
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/requests-for-electronic-uncertified-copies-from-patent-files/guidance-and-notes-directions-given-in-relation-to-requests-for-electronic-uncertified-copies-from-patent-files
1. Introductory notes
(a) These notes are not part of the directions. They are intended to provide background and additional information.
(b) The Interpretation Act 1978 applies to these directions. Therefore, all the definitions set out in that Act apply to these directions. Further, amongst other things, generally any words importing the masculine gender include the feminine and words in the singular include the plural and words in the plural include the singular.
(c) Where any document is submitted in a form or manner which does not comply with the directions, the comptroller may treat the document as not having been delivered (see section 124A(3) of the Act).
2. Electronic requests
(d) A request for an electronic uncertified copy of documents from a published patent or application can be delivered electronically to the office using the appropriate link on the following webpage.
3. Payment of fees
(e) The web interface requires the user to give an account name and number if paying by deposit account, or the full card details (name, number, expiry date and the like) if paying by credit or debit card.
(f) Where the fee has not been paid, or has been paid only in part, then the applicant will be notified by the office of this fact.
4. Enquiries and service availability
(g) Helpdesk support is available between 8.30am and 5pm hours Monday to Friday excluding Bank Holidays.
(h) Advance notice of any planned unavailability of the online service due to maintenance is given on the office website.
(i) Any queries about these directions should be addressed to:
Patents Legal Section
Intellectual Property Office
Concept House
Cardiff Road
Newport
South Wales
NP10 8QQ
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44(0)30 0300 2000
Telephone: +44(0)16 3381 4000
Minicom: +44(0)30 0020 0015