What is the duty to investigate entitlement to claim small entity status?
The duty to investigate entitlement to claim small entity status refers to the obligation of patent applicants to thoroughly investigate all facts and circumstances before determining their actual entitlement to small entity status. According to MPEP 509.03(a), “applicants need to do a complete and thorough investigation of all facts and circumstances before making a determination of actual entitlement to small entity status.” This investigation is crucial to ensure that small entity status is claimed only when appropriate.
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Topics:
MPEP 500 - Receipt and Handling of Mail and Papers,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure