How does the oath or declaration work in divisional applications?
How does the oath or declaration work in divisional applications? In divisional applications, the oath or declaration process is simplified to reduce the burden on applicants. According to MPEP 201.06(c): 37 CFR 1.63(d) provides that a newly executed oath or declaration is not required in a divisional application filed under 37 CFR 1.53(b) that contains…
Read MoreHow does an ADS affect the oath or declaration in pre-September 16, 2012 applications?
In patent applications filed before September 16, 2012, an Application Data Sheet (ADS) can significantly affect the oath or declaration requirements. Specifically: An ADS can eliminate the need for certain information in the oath or declaration. It allows for the submission of some bibliographic data without an oath or declaration. The MPEP 601.05(b) states: “If…
Read MoreHow were changes in inventorship handled in continuation or divisional applications filed under 37 CFR 1.53(b)?
Changes in inventorship for continuation or divisional applications filed under 37 CFR 1.53(b) could be handled in two ways: Filing with a copy of an oath or declaration from a prior application and a statement requesting the deletion of non-inventors. Filing with a newly executed oath or declaration naming the correct inventive entity. The MPEP…
Read MoreWhat happens if an unavailable joint inventor refuses to sign an oath or declaration?
What happens if an unavailable joint inventor refuses to sign an oath or declaration? If an unavailable joint inventor refuses to sign an oath or declaration, the applicant may file a petition under 37 CFR 1.183 to waive the requirement for that inventor’s signature. According to MPEP 409.03(a): ‘If a nonsigning inventor refuses to sign…
Read MoreHow can joint inventors execute oaths or declarations for applications filed on or after September 16, 2012?
For patent applications filed on or after September 16, 2012, joint inventors have more flexibility in executing oaths or declarations. The MPEP states: “For applications filed on or after September 16, 2012, joint inventors may execute separate oaths or declarations in which only the person executing the oath or declaration is identified if an ADS…
Read MoreCan the filing fee, oath or declaration, and claims be submitted after the initial filing of a nonprovisional application?
Yes, the filing fee, oath or declaration, and claims can be submitted after the initial filing of a nonprovisional application. However, there are specific rules and time limits for doing so: These items must be submitted within the period specified by the USPTO, usually in a Notice to File Missing Parts. A surcharge may be…
Read MoreCan a legal representative sign the oath or declaration for an unavailable joint inventor?
Can a legal representative sign the oath or declaration for an unavailable joint inventor? Yes, in certain circumstances, a legal representative can sign the oath or declaration for an unavailable joint inventor. According to MPEP 409.03(a): ‘If an inventor is deceased or legally incapacitated, the legal representative of the inventor may sign the oath or…
Read MoreWhat is MPEP 602.07 about?
MPEP 602.07 is titled ‘Oath or Declaration Filed in United States as a Designated Office’. This section provides guidance on the requirements for oaths or declarations filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) when it acts as a designated office for international patent applications under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). The section…
Read MoreWhen is a new oath or declaration required for a continuation-in-part application?
When is a new oath or declaration required for a continuation-in-part application? For continuation-in-part (CIP) applications, a new oath or declaration is typically required due to the addition of new matter. According to MPEP 602.05: ‘A continuation-in-part application (which may disclose and claim subject matter not disclosed in the prior application) is considered a continuing…
Read MoreCan a non-signing inventor later join the patent application?
Yes, a non-signing inventor can later join the patent application. According to 37 CFR 1.64(f): “A nonsigning inventor or legal representative may subsequently join in the application by submitting an oath or declaration under § 1.63.“ However, it’s important to note that this subsequent submission does not give the non-signing inventor or legal representative the…
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