That determines the timetable, and whether customs will issue a finding on infringement at all. In either case, submit a written statement of non-infringement as soon as possible, with supporting evidence: proof of lawful source, authorization documents, purchase contracts and payment records.
Detention on application. Customs makes no finding of infringement. Customs must release the goods if, within 20 working days of the date of detention, it has received no written notice from a court requesting assistance with seizure — or if the rights holder asks for the goods to be released.
Detention on customs' own initiative. Customs investigates and makes its finding within 30 working days. Where it cannot reach a finding, it notifies both parties in writing, and the period for a court notice requesting assistance with seizure runs to 50 working days from the date of detention.
Make no admission of infringement, and do not abandon the goods, until verification is complete.
