How does a derivation proceeding affect the examination of patent applications?

A derivation proceeding can significantly affect the examination of patent applications in several ways. As outlined in MPEP 2315, after a derivation proceeding is decided: Jurisdiction returns to the examiner. The examiner must consider any recommendations for further action. Prosecution may need to be reopened to consider recommendations or enter recommended rejections. The examiner must…

Read More

How does a derivation proceeding affect other USPTO proceedings for the involved patent or application?

When a derivation proceeding is instituted, it generally suspends other USPTO proceedings involving the same patent or application. MPEP 2313 states: “Other proceedings for the involved file within the Office are suspended except as the Board may order.” This means that ongoing examination, reexamination, or other proceedings at the USPTO are put on hold once…

Read More

What happens after a derivation proceeding is decided?

After a derivation proceeding is decided, jurisdiction over the application returns to the examiner. The examiner must consider any recommendations for further action and may need to reopen prosecution. As stated in MPEP 2315: “If there is a recommendation for further action in the application, the examiner must reopen prosecution to consider the recommendation. The…

Read More

How does the America Invents Act (AIA) relate to derivation proceedings?

The America Invents Act (AIA) plays a crucial role in the context of derivation proceedings. According to MPEP 2310: “Derivation proceedings are only applicable to applications for patent, and any patent issuing thereon that are subject to first-inventor-to-file provisions of the America Invents Act (AIA).” This means that: Derivation proceedings are a direct result of…

Read More

What types of cases are considered “contested cases” before the PTAB?

According to MPEP 1449, contested cases before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) include several types of proceedings: “A contested case includes a derivation proceeding, an inter partes review, a post-grant review, and a covered business method review.” These proceedings are part of the post-grant patent review process and can be initiated to challenge…

Read More

What is the difference between a derivation proceeding and using 37 CFR 1.130 provisions?

The MPEP 717.01(d) outlines the key differences between a derivation proceeding and using the provisions of 37 CFR 1.130: Derivation Proceeding: Used when there are competing claims to the same or substantially the same invention Resolves who the true inventor is when different inventive entities are involved Initiated by filing a petition pursuant to 37…

Read More

What is a derivation proceeding in patent law?

A derivation proceeding is a legal process in patent law that allows an applicant to challenge an earlier-filed patent application by claiming that the named inventor in the earlier application derived the invention from the applicant’s inventor without authorization. According to MPEP 2310.01, the statutory basis for derivation proceedings is found in 35 U.S.C. 135,…

Read More

How does MPEP 402.08 affect patent attorneys during derivation proceedings?

MPEP 402.08 has significant implications for patent attorneys involved in derivation proceedings. The key provision states: While an application is involved in an interference or derivation proceeding, any power of attorney of or revocation of power of attorney should be forwarded to the Patent Trial and Appeal Board for consideration. For patent attorneys, this means:…

Read More