Patent Law FAQ
This FAQ answers all your questions about patent law, patent procedure, and the patent examination process.
Why doesn’t the USPTO return original assignment documents after recording?
The USPTO does not return original assignment documents after recording to maintain a permanent, unaltered record and to prevent potential disputes or fraud. According to MPEP 302.01: ‘The USPTO will not return documents filed for recording.’ This policy serves several purposes:
- Ensures the integrity of the recorded documents
- Prevents alterations or substitutions after recording
- Maintains a consistent and reliable archive
- Reduces administrative burden and potential for loss
By keeping all submitted documents, the USPTO can provide certified copies if needed for legal or business purposes, ensuring a reliable chain of title for patent rights.
Topics:
MPEP 300 – Ownership and Assignment,
MPEP 302 – Recording of Assignment Documents,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure