Welcome to CITMA
Founded in 1934, chartered in 2016, The Chartered Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys (CITMA) is a professional membership organisation with the power to shape law and practice - nationally and internationally. Find out more
What is a trade mark?
Find out how a Chartered Trade Mark Attorney will help you to navigate intellectual property law.
What is a trade mark?
Learn why trade marks are valuable business assets.
Getting a trade mark
How can you get a trade mark - we take you through the process step-by-step.
Find a Chartered Trade Mark Attorney
Use our directory to find intellectual property legal experts.
For the IP profession:
CITMA blog
Read fascinating and entertaining insight into intellectual property.
Trade marks are more valuable than ever – 150 years on from the first
Chartered Trade Mark Attorney, Alexandra Nott explores some of the reasons that trade mark protection remains crucial in today’s business environment.
The first UK trade mark: The story of Bass & Co
As UK trade marks celebrate 150 years, the story of Bass reveals how a single registration transformed branding, protection, and commercial rivalry forever.
Celebrating 150 years of UK trade marks
This year marks 150 years since the establishment of the UK’s Trade Mark Registry and the first grant of a registered trade mark.
Festive flavours and family traditions: How food and drink brands make Christmas memorable
This holiday season, Chartered Trade Mark Attorney, Craig Beaumont reflects on iconic food and drink campaigns and reveals the IP secrets behind their success.
Upcoming events
Earn CPD and network with the IP profession at our events.
Case comments
Read analysis from recent trade mark cases.
Family matters
Protecting your own must be a priority, finds Sam Barker. [2025] EWHC 3077 (IPEC), easyGroup Ltd v Jaybank Leisure Ltd.
A golden opportunity
Guidance on interpretation of figurative marks with written descriptions is welcome, writes Daniel Ramos. [2025] EWCA Civ 1341, Babek International Ltd v Iceland Foods Ltd.
The hunt for reputation
Rebecca Field reports on Puma’s appeal against a decision it said would affect its reputation. T-491/24, Puma SE v EUIPO, General Court.
Less can mean more
Brevity is a powerful tool in registering marks, finds Henry Schlaefli. [2025] EWCA Civ 1340, Thom Browne Inc & Anor v Adidas AG.
News
Read the latest news and features.
The countdown to new UK IPO fees
The new UK Intellectual Property Office (UK IPO) fee structure has received parliamentary approval and will come into force on 1st April 2026 - the first fee increase for trade marks this century.
CITMA Spring Conference 2026 photo gallery
View a selection of photos from our Spring Conference, held at The Minster Building, and our second Spring Party at Sea Containers London.
CITMA Spring Conference 2026: Key talking points
This year’s conference saw more than 180 delegates, speakers, and exhibitors come together in London for a day of learning and building new connections.
Introducing the EU Designs Handbook
The CITMA & CIPA Community Designs Handbook has been retitled the CITMA & CIPA European Union Designs Handbook, reflecting significant changes to EU designs.