Patent Law FAQ
This FAQ answers all your questions about patent law, patent procedure, and the patent examination process.
Here’s the complete FAQ:
How are historical patent assignment records maintained?
The USPTO maintains historical patent assignment records separately from more recent records. MPEP 301.01 explains:
‘The historical database of assignments is maintained separate and apart from the database of assignments affecting title recorded since 1980.’
This means that:
- Records prior to August 1980 are kept in a separate historical database
- These older records may not be available through the online Patent Assignment Search
- Accessing historical records may require different procedures or direct contact with the USPTO
For researchers or legal professionals needing access to pre-1980 assignment records, it’s advisable to contact the USPTO’s Patent and Trademark Resource Centers or the Assignment Recordation Branch for assistance.
Topics:
MPEP 300 - Ownership and Assignment,
MPEP 301-Ownership/Assignability of Patents and Applications,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure