How does the assignment process differ for continuations-in-part compared to other application types?

The assignment process for continuations-in-part (CIPs) differs from other application types due to the potential inclusion of new subject matter. The MPEP § 306.01 explains:

If an application claiming the benefit of the earlier filing date of a provisional application includes subject matter that is not common with subject matter of the provisional application, new assignment papers must be recorded for the application claiming the benefit of the provisional application, unless the later application is filed on or after September 16, 2012 and the assignee is the original applicant therein. This is similar to the practice with respect to continuations-in-part filed under 35 U.S.C. 120.

In essence:

• For continuations and divisions that contain only subject matter from the parent application, the original assignment usually remains effective.
• For CIPs or applications with new subject matter not in the parent or provisional application, new assignment papers are typically required, with the exception noted for applications filed on or after September 16, 2012, where the assignee is the original applicant.

This difference reflects the unique nature of CIPs, which introduce new matter not present in the parent application.