Can recorded assignment documents be expunged if found to be invalid?
No, recorded assignment documents will not be expunged even if they are subsequently found to be invalid. The USPTO’s policy is to maintain a complete history of claimed interests in property. As stated in the MPEP: “Office policy regarding recordation of assignment documents is directed toward maintaining a complete history of claimed interests in property…
Read MoreWhat happens if there’s a typographical error in the recorded assignment document?
If there’s an error in the recorded assignment document itself (not just the cover sheet), the process is different: The party responsible for the error (e.g., the assignor) must either create and record a new document or make corrections to the original document and re-record it. If the assignor is unavailable, the assignee can submit…
Read MoreCan assignment records be expunged from the USPTO database?
Expungement of assignment records is extremely rare and does not result in the complete removal of a document from the assignment records. According to MPEP 323.01(d), petitions to expunge are granted only if: Normal corrective procedures are inadequate The integrity of assignment records won’t be affected Even if granted, “the image of the recorded document…
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