Who can grant access to inspect a patent application?
According to MPEP 104, access to inspect a patent application can be granted by specific individuals or entities. For applications filed on or after September 16, 2012, the following parties can provide written authority for access: The applicant A patent practitioner of record The assignee or an assignee of an undivided part interest The inventor…
Read MoreHow is access to provisional patent applications handled?
Access to provisional patent applications is handled differently from non-provisional applications. According to MPEP 104: “In provisional applications, access or certified copies may only be requested by parties with written authority from a named inventor, the applicant, the assignee of record, or the attorney or agent of record, unless the application is available pursuant to…
Read MoreCan I access assignment records for unpublished patent applications?
Access to assignment records for unpublished patent applications is restricted. The MPEP states: “For pending or abandoned applications which are not open to the public pursuant to 37 CFR 1.11 or for which copies or access may not be supplied pursuant to 37 CFR 1.14, information related thereto is only obtainable upon a proper showing…
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