Part of the popular User's Guide series, this unique and accessible book focuses on the areas of UK patent law and procedure which prove to have the most practical importance in day-to-day practice. The expert analysis takes in the wider public policy aspects of patents and their economic significance, as well as past and likely future trends that will affect legal practitioners. Fully updated to include the latest developments, this new second edition covers the UK Patents Act 2004, key procedural developments such as the 'Streamlined Procedure,' technology transfer block exemption, plus vital developments in case law, including the House of Lords decision in Kirin Amgen v TKT. This title will be of great use to lawyers, solicitors, and barristers, as well as professionals interested in patents, including patent agents, and top level management executives.