Why are assignment documents not placed directly in patent application files?

Assignment documents are not placed directly in patent application files to ensure proper recording and maintenance of ownership records. MPEP 318 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 procedure serves several purposes:

• It centralizes the recording of ownership information
• It ensures that assignments are properly recorded and searchable
• It keeps the main application file focused on technical and procedural aspects of the patent application
• It allows the Assignment Division to maintain a separate database of patent ownership information