What is the purpose of associating an e-copy of the inter partes reexamination certificate with the patent?

The association of an e-copy of the inter partes reexamination certificate with the e-copy of the patent in search files serves several important purposes: It ensures that anyone searching for the patent will also find the reexamination results. It maintains a complete and up-to-date record of the patent’s legal status. It provides transparency in the…

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How does the USPTO maintain file history clarity for returned Notices of Allowance?

The USPTO maintains file history clarity for returned Notices of Allowance through a systematic process: Retaining the original document Keeping a copy of the returned document with any markings Storing the remailed document in the application file This procedure is outlined in MPEP 1303.02, which states: “The original document, a copy of the returned document…

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How are assignment records different from application file records?

The USPTO treats assignment records and application file records as distinct entities. According to MPEP 323.01(d): Assignment records are recognized as distinct from application file records. This distinction is important because: Expungement procedures may affect assignment records differently than application file records. Searches in the Assignment Historical Database may yield different results than searches in…

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When are patent application records available to the public?

Patent application records may be available to the public in the following situations: Patented applications and statutory invention registrations Published abandoned applications Published pending applications Unpublished abandoned applications that are identified or relied upon Unpublished pending applications whose benefit is claimed Unpublished pending applications that are incorporated by reference or otherwise identified For specific details…

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What should I do if I don’t have any record of correspondence with the USPTO for an unlocatable file?

If you don’t possess any record of correspondence with the USPTO for an application, patent, or other proceeding that is the subject of an unlocatable file notice, you must still respond to the notice. According to 37 CFR 1.251(a)(3): If applicant or patentee does not possess any record of the correspondence between the Office and…

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