The tools of trade are items that are exempt from attachment under bankruptcy law or from seizure.
For examples: All of these owe this exemption to the provisions for bankrupts that existed in English common law before it was codified by statute.
[11] A car used only for commuting to work is not a tool of the trade, but a motor vehicle can be, including a farm tractor.
[12][11] Under the Courts Act 2003, "such tools, books, vehicles and other items of equipment as are necessary to the execution debtor for use personally by him in his employment, business or vocation" are exempted from seizure under a writ of execution issued from the High Court.
[13] Under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, "such tools, books, vehicles and other items of equipment as are necessary for use personally in the defendant's employment, business or vocation" are exempted from seizure under section 47C(1) of that Act.