Can assignment records be expunged from the USPTO database?
Expungement of assignment records is extremely rare and does not result in the complete removal of a document from the assignment records. According to MPEP 323.01(d), petitions to expunge are granted only if:
- Normal corrective procedures are inadequate
- The integrity of assignment records won’t be affected
Even if granted, “the image of the recorded document will remain in the records of the Assignment Services Division at the same reel and frame number.” However, links to the specific application or patent will be deleted from the Assignment Historical Database. A redacted version of the ‘expunged’ document must be recorded in its place.
Topics:
MPEP 300 - Ownership and Assignment,
MPEP 323 - Procedures for Correcting Errors in Recorded Assignment Document,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure