How are NASA and DoE ownership contests handled by the USPTO?
NASA and DoE ownership contests are handled by the USPTO using procedures similar to patent interferences. The MPEP 2309 states: “Although these cases are not interferences, the interference practices in this chapter generally apply to NASA and DoE ownership contests as well.” The process involves collaboration between various USPTO departments: The examiner works in coordination…
Read MoreWhat is interference practice and how does it relate to pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(g)?
Interference practice is a legal proceeding used to determine priority of invention between two or more parties claiming the same patentable invention. Pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(g) forms the basis for interference practice. The MPEP states: This section of pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 forms a basis for interference practice. See MPEP Chapter 2300 for more information…
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