What are the assignment rules for substitute and continuation-in-part applications?

The assignment rules for substitute and continuation-in-part applications differ from those for division and continuation applications. As per the MPEP, a prior assignment of the original application is not applied (effective) to the substitute or continuation-in-part application because the assignment recorded against the original application gives the assignee rights to only the subject matter common…

Read More

When is a new assignment required for applications derived from earlier applications?

The need for a new assignment in applications derived from earlier applications depends on the type of application and its content: Division and Continuation Applications: Generally, no new assignment is required as the prior assignment is automatically applied. However, a new recordation request is needed to reflect this in USPTO records. Substitute and Continuation-in-Part Applications:…

Read More

How does assignment work for division and continuation applications?

For division and continuation applications, a prior assignment recorded against the original application is automatically applied to the new application. This is because the assignment recorded against the original application gives the assignee rights to the subject matter common to both applications. However, it’s important to note that while the assignment is effective for the…

Read More

What is the difference in assignment between division/continuation and substitute/CIP applications?

The key difference in assignment between division/continuation applications and substitute/continuation-in-part (CIP) applications lies in how prior assignments are applied: Division/Continuation Applications: Prior assignments recorded against the original application automatically apply to these applications. As stated in MPEP 306: In the case of a division or continuation application, a prior assignment recorded against the original application…

Read More

When is a new assignment required for a continuation-in-part (CIP) application?

A new assignment is generally required for a continuation-in-part (CIP) application, with one exception. According to MPEP 306: Substitute or continuation-in-part applications require the recordation of a new assignment if they are to be issued to an assignee, unless the substitute or continuation-in-part application is filed on or after September 16, 2012, and the assignee…

Read More

How does the USPTO handle assignment records for division and continuation applications?

While a prior assignment recorded against an original application is automatically effective for division and continuation applications, the USPTO does not automatically update its assignment records for these new applications. As stated in MPEP 306: Although the assignment recorded against an original application is applied to the division or continuation application, the Office’s assignment records…

Read More

Do substitute and continuation-in-part applications require new assignments?

Yes, substitute and continuation-in-part (CIP) applications generally require new assignments. As stated in MPEP 306: In the case of a substitute or continuation-in-part application, a prior assignment of the original application is not applied (effective) to the substitute or continuation-in-part application because the assignment recorded against the original application gives the assignee rights to only…

Read More

What is the relationship between 35 U.S.C. 119(e) and patent application assignments?

35 U.S.C. 119(e) is crucial in understanding the relationship between provisional applications and their non-provisional counterparts, particularly in terms of assignments. The MPEP § 306.01 states: If an application which claims the benefit of the earlier filing date of a provisional application under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) includes only subject matter which formed a part of…

Read More

How does the assignment process differ for continuations-in-part compared to other application types?

The assignment process for continuations-in-part (CIPs) differs from other application types due to the potential inclusion of new subject matter. The MPEP § 306.01 explains: If an application claiming the benefit of the earlier filing date of a provisional application includes subject matter that is not common with subject matter of the provisional application, new…

Read More

What is the significance of September 16, 2012, in patent application assignments?

September 16, 2012, is a significant date in patent application assignments, particularly for applications claiming the benefit of a provisional application. The MPEP states: If an application claiming the benefit of the earlier filing date of a provisional application includes subject matter that is not common with subject matter of the provisional application, new assignment…

Read More