How does MPEP 318 guide patent examiners on handling assignment documents?

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.

MPEP 318 provides clear guidance to patent examiners on how to handle assignment documents. The section states:

“Assignment documents submitted for recording should not be placed directly in application or patent files, but should be forwarded to Assignment Division for recording.”

This instruction serves to:

• Remind examiners not to include assignment documents in the main application file
• Direct examiners to forward any received assignment documents to the Assignment Division
• Ensure that the proper procedures for recording assignments are followed
• Maintain the separation between technical examination and ownership recording

By following this guidance, patent examiners help maintain the integrity of both the application files and the assignment records.