FAQs Patent Questions

Question:Is it necessary to go to the USPTO to transact business concerning patent matters?

Answer:
No. Most business with the Office is conducted by written correspondence. Interviews regarding pending applications can be arranged with examiners if necessary and are often helpful.

Question:Design patents are granted to inventors who discover a new design for an article of manufacture.

Answer:
File a Design Patent Application - Design patents may be granted to anyone who invents a new, original, and ornamental design for an article of manufacture.

Question:The Official Gazette contains information on Expired patents, Patents reinstated and Reissue Applications

Answer:
No. The Official Gazette contains a section at the front of the book called "Patent and Trademark Office Notices." Each week, the following information is published: a. Expired Patents: Patents that expire due to failure to pay required maintenance fees. These patent numbers are published approximately 3 months after expiration. b. Patents Reinstated: Patents reinstated due to the acceptance of a late maintenance fee. c. Reissue Applications: Patents filed as reissues. d. Reexams: Patents requested to be reexamined. e. Certificates of Correction: Patents granted certificates to correct previously published material. f. Summaries of final decisions issued by the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board.

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