How can an inventor be restricted from accessing their patent application?
While it’s uncommon, there is a process for restricting an inventor’s access to their patent application. According to MPEP 106: Any request to prevent the inventor from obtaining access to the file should be filed as a separate paper, 37 CFR 1.4(c), and should be directed to the Office of Petitions. If the request is…
Read MoreCan an assignee control access to a patent application?
Yes, an assignee of record of the entire interest in a patent application can control access to it. According to MPEP 106, “The applicant or assignee of record of the entire interest in an application may file an application or intervene in the prosecution of the application, appointing an attorney or agent of his or…
Read MoreHow can an inventor’s access to their patent application be restricted?
An inventor’s access to their patent application can be restricted, but it requires a specific process. According to MPEP 106, “Any request to prevent the inventor from obtaining access to the file should be filed as a separate paper, 37 CFR 1.4(c), and should be directed to the Office of Petitions.” If the request is…
Read MoreDoes restricting inventor access to a patent application continue after the application publishes?
No, once a patent application publishes under 35 U.S.C. 122(b), it becomes available to the public. At that point, any previous grant restricting the inventor’s access to the application file is no longer in effect. Of course, after the application has published pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 122(b), the application will be available to the public…
Read MoreCan an applicant or assignee prevent the inventor from accessing the patent application file?
Yes, the applicant or assignee of record of the entire interest in an application can make a specific request to prevent the inventor from obtaining access to the application file. This request should be filed as a separate paper under 37 CFR 1.4(c) and directed to the Office of Petitions. If granted, the inventor will…
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