What is the role of the Assignment Division in patent document handling?

This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.

The Assignment Division plays a crucial role in handling patent assignment documents. According to MPEP 318:

“Assignment documents submitted for recording should not be placed directly in application or patent files, but should be forwarded to Assignment Division for recording.”

The Assignment Division’s responsibilities include:

• Receiving assignment documents for patents and patent applications
• Recording these documents in the USPTO’s assignment database
• Maintaining accurate records of patent ownership and transfers
• Ensuring that assignment information is searchable and accessible
• Processing requests for copies of recorded documents

By centralizing these functions, the USPTO can maintain a comprehensive and up-to-date record of patent ownership separate from the technical aspects of patent prosecution.