British court offers simplified procedures for IP cases

Since 1 October 2012, right holders in England and Wales have the possibility to take legal action against others who copy their creative works through the new 'small claims track'. The small claims track is a simplified procedure for claims up to a maximum of £5,000. The Patents County Court will hear all small claim tracks.

The new system makes legal action more accessible for individuals and small businesses, particularly in the creative industries, for whom the costs of legal procedures are often too high compared to the potential benefits of it. 

The British government has plans to increase the amount of damages that can be claimed in the small claims track procedures to £10,000. When this will happen is currently unclear.

Source: The Guardian