What is the process for expunging assignment records?

This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.

Expungement of assignment records is a rare and complex process. According to MPEP 323.01(d), petitions to expunge assignment records are granted only under specific conditions:

• Normal corrective procedures (outlined in MPEP § 323.01(a) through § 323.01(c)) are inadequate for providing relief.
• The integrity of the assignment records will not be affected by granting the petition.

It’s important to note that expungement does not result in the complete removal of a document from assignment records. Instead, a redacted version of the ‘expunged’ document is recorded and replaces the original in the assignment records.