What patent application files are open to public inspection?
According to 37 CFR 1.11(a), the following patent application files are open to public inspection:
- Published applications
- Patents
- Statutory invention registrations
The public can obtain copies of these files upon payment of the fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.19(b)(2). However, if an application was published in redacted form, the complete file may not be available if certain requirements are met and the application is still pending.
Topics:
MPEP 103-Right of Public To Inspect Patent Files and Some Application Files,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure