What is the ‘Slothfulness Rule’ in patent diligence?
The ‘Slothfulness Rule’ is a principle in patent law related to diligence in reducing an invention to practice. According to MPEP 715.07(a), this rule sets a standard for what is considered a lack of diligence.
The MPEP cites the following:
‘The law does not look with favor upon an inventor who slumbers upon his rights; but, rather, upon the diligent inventor who gives the public the benefit of his invention at as early a date as possible.’
This rule emphasizes the importance of active and continuous efforts by inventors to reduce their inventions to practice or file patent applications. It discourages delays and inaction, promoting the timely disclosure of inventions to the public. Inventors should be aware that periods of inactivity or unnecessary delays could be viewed negatively when assessing diligence.
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