What is the significance of recording patent assignments at the USPTO?

Question

Accepted Answer

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. Recording patent assignments at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is crucial for several reasons: Legal Protection: It provides legal protection against subsequent purchasers or mortgagees. Official Recognition: The USPTO recognizes the assignee for all matters before the Office. Public Notice: It serves as public notice of the assignment. According to MPEP 301 : An assignment relating to a patent must be recorded in the Patent and Trademark Office within 3 months from its date or prior to the date of a subsequent purchase or mortgage, in order to be effective against a subsequent purchaser or mortgagee. Recording assignments promptly is essential to ensure full legal protection and recognition of ownership rights. For more information on patent assignments, visit: patent assignments . For more information on USPTO, visit: USPTO . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Record of Patents and Applications Required MPEP 301 Required Assignment of Patent Must Be in Writing MPEP 301 Recordation of Assignment Provides Public Notice MPEP 301 Recommended Patent Assignments Must Be In Writing MPEP 301 Definitions for Ownership and Assignability of Patents and Applications MPEP 301 Required Assignment Must Be Recorded Within Three Months MPEP 301 Required Assignment of Patents Must Be in Writing MPEP 301 Required Requirement for Transfer of Ownership Interest MPEP 301 Recordation of Assignment Provides Public Notice MPEP 301 Permitted Assignment Must Be Recorded for Patent Issue MPEP 301 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What information is available in USPTO patent assignment records? How does the USPTO handle confidential patent as...